Enjoy our post last week on simple, proven growth strategies which you can copy and paste into your salon?
(Click here if you’re unsure what I’m talking about)
Well, so did lots of people…
So here’s another ten as promised…
11. Set Team Targets
Your team are your biggest asset. Get them involved in the growth! Set fun, achievable targets for rebooking or retail sales. Celebrate the wins: even the small ones. A happy, motivated team will naturally grow your business because they’re invested in its success.
12. Introduce Memberships
Predictable income is the holy grail of salon ownership. Consider offering memberships for regular services like blow-dries or root touch-ups. It keeps your chair full, secures your cash flow, and makes your clients feel like VIPs.
13. Build Local Partnerships
Pop into the boutique next door or the gym around the corner. Can you do a cross-promotion? Maybe their members get a discount with you, and your clients get a treat with them. Building a local network makes you a pillar of the community, and that kind of trust is priceless.
14. Don’t Ignore Email Marketing
In a world of algorithms, your email list is the only thing you truly own. Send out a monthly newsletter that isn’t just “20% off everything.” Share tips, introduce new team members, and tell stories. Keep yourself at the top of their minds so that when they think “salon,” they think of you.
15. Eliminate Client Churn
Getting new clients is expensive. Keeping them is much cheaper. If you notice your regulars are drifting away, you need a plan to win them back. Check out our guide to eliminating client churn for some practical steps to keep your chairs busy.
16. The “Speed to Lead” Rule
If someone enquiries via your website or social media, how long does it take you to reply? In the digital age, people expect a response fast. If you wait three days, they’ve already booked somewhere else. Try to respond within minutes where possible: or use an auto-responder with a booking link for when you’re elbow-deep in a transformation.
17. Master Your Inventory
Money sitting on your shelves is money that isn’t in your bank account. Keep a close eye on your stock levels. Don’t over-order just because there’s a “deal” on. Use your salon software to track exactly what’s being used so you can keep your cash flow healthy.
18. Price for Profit
When was the last time you did a price increase? If your costs have gone up but your prices haven’t, you’re basically giving yourself a pay cut. Don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth. Your true fans will understand, and the ones who leave because of a £2 increase probably weren’t your ideal clients anyway.
19. Hire to Free Your Time
At some point, to grow the business, you have to stop being the person doing all the hair. It’s scary to step back from the chair, but hiring another stylist or a dedicated receptionist allows you to focus on the “big picture” stuff. You can’t steer the ship if you’re too busy shovelling coal in the engine room!
20. Invest in Yourself
You are the heart of your business. If you’re burnt out and miserable, your salon will reflect that. Take the time to learn new skills: not just hair skills, but business skills. Read the books, listen to the podcasts, and look after your mental health. A flourishing salon starts with a flourishing owner.
Ready to Flourish?
Growing your salon business isn’t about a single “magic bullet” or a quick fix.
It’s about doing these small things consistently and with heart. We know it’s challenging, but the results: the freedom, the fulfillment, and (yes!) the fun: are so worth it.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start growing, we’d love to help you find your roadmap.
Don’t be afraid to get in touch or join us in the Gold Club.
We’ve got the coffee (and the strategies) ready and waiting for you!
