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The Biggest Salon Trends Coming in 2026 (And How to Prepare)

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:40:44 GMT

How Employment Models, Operations, and Pricing Will Change the Salon Industry in 2026

Quick Answer

The salon industry is shifting fast. Rental, commission, hybrid models, and pricing structures will change dramatically in 2026 as states tighten enforcement, owners confront profitability issues, and the workforce seeks stability. Salons with strong leadership, math-based pricing, and clear operational systems will outperform everyone else.

Key Takeaways

Employment models will shift as rental becomes harder to sustain and commission salons are forced to modernize.
Hybrid models will collapse under compliance pressure and culture issues.
Apprenticeships will surge because they develop stronger stylists and deeper loyalty.
Pricing must become math-based, not emotional — “guessing” will kill profit in 2026.
Leadership, communication, and systems will become the primary advantages for salon owners.

Employment Models

Prediction: The rental bubble begins correcting

Rental salons aren’t failing because the rental is bad; they’re struggling because many aren't equipped to run a business. Rising expenses, tax responsibilities, lack of retention structure, inconsistent professionalism, and missing business foundations will push many renters back into employment.

Pro Tip: If your salon offers structure, clarity, and growth, you’ll attract renters who are tired of doing everything alone.

Prediction: Commission salons will split into two tiers
Commission salons that innovate will thrive. Those clinging to outdated systems, verbal policies, weak culture, or a lack of leadership will continue to close. The gap between modern and outdated salons will widen dramatically. Again, we will continue to see closures, and the biggest reason will be the owners' failure to modernize.

Pro Tip: You don’t need a ‘bigger’ business — you need a better-run one.

Prediction: Hybrid models will implode
States are tightening classification laws. Hybrid models cannot legally or culturally sustain both renters and employees under one roof without risk. Culture fractures when two operating systems exist in the same space.

Pro Tip: If you’re hybrid, start planning your transition now. Pick a lane and protect your culture.

Prediction: Apprenticeships will become a core hiring strategy
Apprenticeship-trained stylists understand your systems, standards, and expectations before ever taking a full book. This creates loyalty, stronger skill development, and long-term retention.

Pro Tip: If your state allows it, build an apprenticeship track now; reliable hiring depends on it. If your state doesn't allow it, lobby.

Prediction: Licensure will matter less than professionalism
Schools produce graduates, not professionals. Businesses produce professionals. Salons with structured onboarding and ongoing training will outperform competitors who rely solely on “finding the right person.”

Pro Tip: Build the stylist you want instead of hoping someone else will train them, and then they'll find you.

Pricing & Profitability

Prediction: Pricing must shift from emotion to math
Emotional pricing: guessing, copying competitors, or basing prices on fear, will destroy margins in 2026. The salons that thrive will price based on cost-to-deliver, overhead, hours, and profit targets.

Pro Tip: If you don’t know your cost per hour to operate, you don’t know your pricing.

Prediction: KPIs will evolve
Old-school numbers like retail percentage and ticket average don’t reflect real stability. Modern salons must track metrics such as the Lifetime Value of a Client (LTV), Culture Stability (CS), Team Engagement & Growth Index (TEGI), Team Happiness Index (THI), and Net Owner Benefit (Profit).

*With the exceptions of LTV and Profit, we have created these metrics for Hello and will be sharing how to use them in an upcoming episode shortly.

Pro Tip: Track numbers that matter for your business.

Prediction: Leadership becomes the main competitive advantage
The salons that win in 2026 will be led by owners who communicate clearly, coach their teams consistently, and maintain structure. Owners who avoid leadership will lose talent.

Pro Tip: Leadership isn’t intensity — it’s consistency.

Prediction: Purpose-driven salons attract stronger teams
Stylists want stability, culture, and clarity. Purpose-driven salons will attract and retain people who want long-term homes in the industry.

Pro Tip: If your purpose isn’t written down, it isn’t real. Get your ideas out of your head and onto paper. (or better yet, digitally somewhere that your team can access, it's almost 2026!)

FAQs: 2026 Models, Operations & Pricing

Final Thoughts

The industry is evolving quickly, and the salons that win will be the ones that build strong systems, lead with confidence, and price intentionally. The future belongs to the salons that work smarter — not harder. Now is the time to strengthen your operations, modernize your pricing, and clarify your purpose.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below.

The Biggest Salon Trends Coming in 2026 (And How to Prepare)

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:33:51 GMT

Education, Technology & Client Behavior Shifts Every Salon Must Prepare For

QUICK ANSWER

What should salons focus on as they head into 2026?

Real education (micro-learning, apprenticeships), tech integration (AI, automation, GPT booking tools), improved client experience, modern workflows, data-driven decisions, and building a brand that actually feels like something, not just “looks cute” online.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The salon industry is splitting into two groups: those who innovate and those who stagnate.
Micro-education and personalized skill-based training will outperform big “entertainment education” events.
AI and automations will become the “silent partner” inside every modern salon.
Younger clients want fun, frictionless, tech-forward experiences.
Hospitality — not “luxury” — is becoming the new competitive advantage.

The Future of Education in the Salon Industry

Prediction: Education will split into two categories: entertainment vs. real learning
Most large hair shows aren’t educational; they’re entertainment. As stylists become more time-sensitive and growth-oriented, they’ll gravitate toward education that actually improves their skills behind the chair.

Pro Tip: Audit your education investments. If you can’t apply what you learned at your next appointment, it wasn’t education, it was a show.

Prediction: Micro-education will dominate (small, actionable, personalized training)
Stylists want specific skill-building: bobs, curly cutting, foiling patterns, retention strategies, whatever they desire, not what a brand tells them they need.

Pro Tip: Hire educators the same way your clients hire you: based on expertise, fit, and proven results.

Prediction: Education will be seen as an investment — not an expense
Small, targeted training leads to faster growth than cheap, vague classes.

Pro Tip: Estimate ROI before booking education. “If this training adds $300/month to my income, how fast does it pay for itself?”

Prediction: Salons with built-in internal training will win
Apprenticeships, coaching, peer-to-peer training, structured continuing education — these salons grow faster, retain staff, and outperform competitors.

Pro Tip: Add quarterly skill-intensives to your 2026 calendar now. If it’s not scheduled, it won’t happen.

Technology & AI Will Reshape Salon Operations

Prediction: Digital resistance will create a two-tier industry
Paper books, manual reminders, and avoiding tech will put salons years behind, or worse.

Pro Tip: Start with one improvement: online booking, automated reminders, or digital consultations.

Prediction: AI becomes your “silent partner”
AI can manage retention, follow-ups, pre-consultations, personalized reminders, upsells, and even reactivation campaigns.

Pro Tip: Use AI for what it’s best at — repetitive tasks — and save your energy for the human experience.

Prediction: Custom GPTs on salon websites
Clients will use GPT-powered tools to:

Book appointments
Get matched to a stylist
Pre-consult
Get product recommendations
Ask questions 24/7

Pro Tip: Ask your website developer, “What would it take to integrate an AI concierge in 2026?” Start the conversation now.

Prediction: AR (Augmented Reality) will be leveraged for consultations
Visualizing color shifts, shapes, and cuts will become normal.

Pro Tip: Look for apps or software that offer visual try-ons so clients know exactly what they’re agreeing to.

Prediction: Data becomes the new scissors
LTV, retention curves, behavior patterns, booking habits, visit frequency — these will guide decisions more than “gut feeling.”

Pro Tip: Review your data monthly. Small shifts lead to massive improvements.

Prediction: “Good enough” salons will collapse
Clients expect convenience, clarity, speed, and personalization. Old models that rely solely on “skills” will fall behind.

Pro Tip: Identify your biggest bottleneck (booking, communication, wait times, etc.) and eliminate it immediately.

Client Behavior in 2026

Prediction: Hospitality becomes the new luxury
Clients want to feel cared for, not impressed. The salons that win will be the salons that serve.

Pro Tip: Review your client journey. Where do they feel cared for? Where do you lose them?

Prediction: Clients choose businesses, not individuals
If you’re solo and unavailable, clients leave. Teams will outperform individuals because reliability wins.

Pro Tip: If you’re solo, build systems that create reliability even when you’re unavailable.

Prediction: Frictionless beats fancy
Consumers won’t tolerate jumping through hoops to book, buy, or communicate.

Pro Tip: Evaluate your workflow through the eyes of a teenager — if it has friction, they won’t use it.

Prediction: People want identity alignment
Clients stay longer when they feel emotionally connected to your business's values.

Pro Tip: Make your brand values visible on your site, in your space, and in your behavior.

Prediction: Influencer culture fades, authenticity rises
People trust real teams, real client outcomes, and real experiences.

Pro Tip: Feature real humans — not buzzwords — in your marketing.

Prediction: Younger clients want fun, shareability, and technology
This generation values:

Vibes
Ease
Tech
Inclusivity
Cool experiences worth sharing

Pro Tip: Add one “shareable moment” to the experience, but make it natural, not forced.

Prediction: Clients leave when they sense complacency
The #1 reason clients leave a salon is boredom and feeling undervalued, not price.

Pro Tip: Add one upgrade or small innovation every quarter.

FAQS: 2026 SALON EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY

FINAL THOUGHTS

The salons that win in 2026 will be the salons that embrace change — in education, technology, client experience, and culture. You don’t have to do everything at once, but you must begin taking steps now if you want to stay competitive.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

What to Prepare Before Opening a Salon

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 22:22:55 GMT

How to avoid the costly mistakes most new salon owners make before opening their doors.

Quick Answer

Successful salons aren’t built on décor, branding, or the perfect paint color. They’re built on foundations: business planning, pricing, systems, staffing structure, and a clear mission that guides every decision. Salons that prepare before opening thrive. Salons that rush into opening regret it within months.

Key Takeaways

• Foundations come first, everything else is secondary.
Most owners obsess over décor, chairs, and logos. But the businesses that last start with mission, vision, core values, pricing strategy, and understanding numbers.

Foundations control your profit and culture, not the furniture.

• Systems prevent chaos before it begins.
Owners who “figure it out later” always end up overwhelmed. Booking, payroll, inventory, communication, and policies all need to be built before day one.

Systems create consistency, lack of systems creates panic.

• Pricing must be math-based, not emotion-based.
Your menu must reflect real overhead, labor cost, hours available, and desired profit goals. Guessing leads to burnout and financial stress.

Your prices should be intentional, profitable, and reviewed annually (at minimum).

• A salon playbook is non-negotiable.
If your expectations aren’t written down, they don’t exist. Hiring without a playbook guarantees confusion and frustration.

Clarity creates confidence. Guessing creates conflict.

• Your support network determines your speed.
An accountant, lawyer, insurance agent, electrician, and mentor dramatically reduce stress.

You cannot build or run a real business alone.

Start With the Foundations: Mission, Vision, and Core Values

Before signing a lease or buying a single chair, define the identity of your business.

• Mission: Why your salon exists

This shapes your culture, expectations, hiring, and client experience. A strong mission eliminates 80% of future confusion.

• Vision: What the business will become

Your vision determines team size, pay structures, pricing model, location, growth path, and long-term decisions.

• Core Values: How your salon operates

Values determine behavior. If they’re not documented, everyone makes up their own version and chaos follows.

Pro Tip: If you can’t clearly explain your mission, vision, or values, your team will never be able to live by them.

The Non-Negotiable Systems Every Owner Must Build Before Opening

Most new owners underestimate how much structure is required.

• Banking & Accounting

You need business accounts, bookkeeping routines, and an accountant who explains your tax obligations. This prevents surprises and surprises are expensive.

• Payroll & Taxes

Payroll timing, tax percentages, and employer responsibilities must be understood before hiring. Guessing here destroys profit.

• Booking & Software

Choose systems that support your model, not ones that are merely cheap or popular. Changing software after opening is painful.

• Insurance & Utilities

Professional liability, general liability, water usage, electrical capacity, and HVAC loads all matter. Salons have unique infrastructure needs.

• I nventory Management

Back bar, color, retail, and ordering cycles should be standardized before day one. Otherwise, you’ll always be running out of something. We strongly encourage utilizing a color management system.

Pro Tip: Systems are the backbone of a stress-free salon. Most owners only build them after problems arise — this is backwards.

Pricing for Profit (Not Stress)

Most new owners copy old price lists, base pricing on other salons, guess, or undercharge “to attract clients.” This leads to immediate problems.

•Know your weekly and monthly operating costs

Rent, insurance, software, payroll, loan payments, and taxes must all be calculated.

•Understand your available hours

Your pricing is tied directly to how many clients you can realistically provide services.

•Profit must be included intentionally

If you don’t plan for profit, you won’t have any. It won't just appear.

•Review pricing annually

Inflation rises every year, your prices should too.

Pro Tip: “Flat” increases like $5 across the board or 3%, rarely fix profitability gaps. Use real math, not round numbers. Check out "How to Raise Your Salon Prices Without Losing Clients [EP:206]"

Your Team Strategy Will Make or Break Your Salon

•Onboarding must be structured

Stylists need clarity: expectations, goals, communication channels, and training plans.

•Growth paths create retention

Stylists stay longer when they see progress, not stagnation.

•One-on-ones matter

If you don’t communicate regularly, problems grow quietly and explode later.

•Hire intentionally

Hiring friends without systems is one of the most common (and painful) mistakes new owners make.

Build Your External Support System (Your “Bench”)

Every salon owner needs key professionals:

Accountant

For taxes and financial clarity. Trust me, have a solid accountant.

Lawyer

For leases, contracts, and liabilities. And to calm you down when you're freaking out.

Insurance Agent

Coverage will likely need to grow with your business. Don't skip this step or you risk losing it all.

Electrician & Plumber

Salons can struggle with plumbing and power issues. Have a relationship with reliable people to save you headaches down the road.

Industry Mentor

Someone who provides external perspective and speed. Someone who is or has been where you want to go.

Pro Tip: Emergencies are not the time to build relationships. Build early.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening a Salon

Final Thoughts

Opening a salon is exciting — but the salons that thrive are the ones built on strong foundations, not strong aesthetics. When you build systems, pricing, structure, and have support in place before opening your doors, your success becomes predictable rather than stressful.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter powered by Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below.

How Salon Apprenticeships Solve Hiring Problems (And What Owners Get Wrong)

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 13:03:12 GMT

A smarter, sustainable approach to growing talent from within.

Quick Answer

Apprenticeships solve hiring challenges by developing stylists in-house, teaching skills and culture simultaneously, and building loyalty through mentorship. When structured with clear expectations and milestones, apprenticeships create confident stylists who stay and contribute.

The very first thing you should do is contact your state board and request the information, guidelines, and apprentice requirements required to run a licensed apprenticeship.

Key Takeaways

You don’t find great stylists — you grow them.
The “perfect hire” is rare. Apprenticeships give you control over skill development and customer experience from day one.

Technical training is only half the job.
Apprentices also learn how your salon speaks to clients, solves problems, handles pressure, and works as a team.

Structure prevents burnout.
When apprentices don’t know what’s next, they stall or quit. A clear, documented path keeps progress visible and achievable.

Apprenticeships increase retention.
When people feel invested in your salon, they stay. The relationships built during training often become the strongest cultural glue in the salon.

This is how commission salons stay competitive.
Most commission salons don't offer licensed apprenticeship programs because they require work, and older business owners don't see the value. Rentals can’t offer consistent mentorship or structured growth — commission salons can, and that’s the advantage.

Why Apprenticeships Matter Now

Hiring experienced stylists is unpredictable. Many veteran stylists decide to go off on their own, come with bad habits, or generally don't fit your culture, leading to a lack of buy-in.

Apprenticeships offer:

Skill development that matches your standards
Cultural alignment that prevents drama and disconnect
Predictable pipeline planning instead of reactive hiring

Instead of hoping the right stylist appears, you build one.

Pro Tip: Apprenticeships are strongest when tied to real responsibilities, real progress, and real growth, not just “helping out.”

How Apprenticeships Fix the Hiring Pipeline

Hiring reactively means:

You wait until you're short-staffed
You scramble
You compromise

Apprenticeships shift to a proactive model.

They create:

Regular talent flow
Graduations that match demand
A continuous improvement loop

Expanded Breakdown:
When you train stylists in-house, you eliminate the “unknown variable” of bringing in outside habits. Instead, you cultivate consistency in client experience, timing, and service standards.

The Most Common Apprenticeship Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

1. No Clear Milestones

Without milestones, apprentices feel like they are floating.

Better approach:

Break training into phases
Define exactly what success looks like at each step
Use timelines as guidance, not pressure

Example Milestones:

Shampoo + hospitality → Blowouts → Basic cutting → Color theory and application → Full-service practice

Why It Matters: Progress feels real when it can be measured. Confidence grows with each step achieved, not with time served.

2. Treating Apprentices Like Assistants

Many assistants tend to stagnate. Apprentices grow.

Apprentices should:

Observe
Practice
Receive feedback
Repeat

Expanded Breakdown: If an apprentice becomes a perpetual helper, they feel “stuck.” When they are actively trained, they feel like they are becoming something, not just supporting someone else’s day. This is reinforced (at least in New Hampshire) by the requirement to document hours and complete monthly testing mandated by the state board.

3. Lack of Communication About Timeline

“Am I close?”
“Am I improving?”
“What’s next?”

These questions live in every apprentice’s mind.

Solution: Short, recurring check-ins:

What did you learn this week?
What is improving?
What’s the next step?
Documentation
Testing

Why It Works: Clarity reduces anxiety. Progress becomes visible.

How to Build an Effective Apprenticeship Program

1. Create a Training Curriculum

This doesn’t need to be fancy, but it must be written.

Include:

Skills
Expected time windows
Hospitality standards
Timing expectations

Expanded Breakdown: Documentation keeps training consistent, even when mentors differ in teaching style.

2. Create Weekly Practice Time

Real growth happens in repetition.

Examples:

Two hands-on models per week
One demo or formulation workshop
One time-management practice day

Pro Tip: Busy stylists don't accidentally “find time” to train apprentices; training must be scheduled .

3. Use Mentor Teams, Not Just One Teacher

One mentor = one perspective.
Multiple mentors = well-rounded skills and comfort.

*In our salon, multiple hair pros may have a hand in training, but the state requires one licensed stylist to be responsible for the apprentice in a 1:1 format.

Why It Works: Apprentices learn faster when they learn from several people rather than mirroring just one stylist. One caveat is that the training and styles need to be similar enough not to confuse the apprentice.

The Cultural Payoff

Apprenticeships develop:

Work ethic
Communication tone
Professional habits
Team-awareness
Client hospitality instincts

These are things that are nearly impossible to retrofit later.

This is where culture is formed and retained.

What Apprentices Gain

Real feedback and real growth
Community and support
Confidence that comes from repetition
Career direction and clarity
A sense of belonging early on

Expanded Breakdown: Apprenticeships don’t just create skills — they create identity. And identity is what leads to long-term commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salon Apprenticeships

Final Thoughts

Apprenticeships aren’t a burden — they’re a blueprint.

They solve staffing problems, reduce turnover, build culture, and create confidence.

They’re not just practical.

They’re strategic.

Want to build a team that grows, stays, and thrives?

Grow them from within.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter for weekly leadership insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more depth, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below.

What Commission Owners & Stylists Get Wrong (And How to Fix It)

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 18:25:51 GMT

How better communication, leadership, and accountability fix the divide inside salons.

Quick Answer

Commission salon owners and stylists often clash due to unclear expectations, ineffective communication, and misaligned goals. When leaders set clear standards, offer consistent coaching, and stylists take accountability for their results, the entire salon culture—and profit—improves.

Key Takeaways

Miscommunication kills trust.
Many owners assume their teams “just know” what’s expected; stylists assume the same about leadership. Consistent, honest communication prevents resentment and turnover.

Accountability isn’t punishment—it’s progress.
Regular one-on-ones focused on growth, not reprimands, keep stylists motivated and owners informed.

Owners must lead, not manage.
Leadership means coaching and creating clarity—not just tracking metrics or enforcing rules.

Stylists share responsibility for success.
Growth happens when stylists take ownership of their books, clients, and mindset.

Healthy salons are built through feedback.
Open dialogue between owners and stylists strengthens retention, reputation, and revenue.

Common Mistakes Commission Owners Make

Lack of Clarity
Many owners assume employees understand business goals, yet rarely share them. This creates frustration, and stylists often feel left out of the decision-making process.

Pro Tip: Hold regular meetings to discuss metrics, vision, and upcoming changes. It builds buy-in and transparency.

Ignoring Culture and Communication
Salons that skip structured feedback often end up being reactive—only addressing issues when they escalate.

Micromanaging Instead of Mentoring
Owners who control every move crush creativity. Mentorship creates ownership; micromanagement kills it.

Pro Tip: Replace control with coaching—guide stylists toward their own solutions rather than dictating every step.

Common Mistakes Stylists Make

Waiting for Direction Instead of Taking Initiative
Some stylists expect constant guidance, but leadership appreciates those who take the initiative.

Avoiding Tough Conversations
Silence can cost growth opportunities.

Pro Tip: Address concerns professionally and promptly. Owners value proactive communication over quiet resentment.

Focusing Only on Artistry
Technical excellence is vital—but business awareness makes careers sustainable.

How to Fix the Divide

1. Set Clear Expectations
Document standards for performance, hospitality, and rebooking. When everyone knows the “why,” accountability feels fair.

2. Coach Consistently
Replace yearly reviews with monthly or quarterly coaching sessions. They keep progress visible and aligned with goals.

3. Promote Shared Ownership
Empower stylists to contribute ideas for promotions or guest experience improvements. It shifts the tone from “your salon” to “our salon.”

4. Use Metrics as Guides—not Weapons
Numbers highlight opportunities; they shouldn’t shame anyone. When framed as feedback, metrics inspire improvement rather than fear.

5. Lead with Empathy and Vision
Stylists want to feel part of something meaningful. Owners who articulate purpose create loyalty beyond paychecks.

FAQs & Insights: Commission Salon Success

Final Thoughts

When commission owners and stylists understand each other’s perspectives, the tension disappears—and teamwork replaces frustration. The best salons thrive because leadership and artistry evolve together.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Why Suite and Booth Renters Struggle (and How to Fix It)

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 09:00:27 GMT

Freedom without structure leads to chaos. Here’s how to fix it before it’s too late.

Key Takeaways

Booth rental and suites as a model aren’t the enemy—lack of preparation is.
Freedom requires structure, systems, and accountability.
Renters often fail when they underestimate the importance of marketing, math, and mindset.

Quick Answer

Most suite and booth renters don’t fail because they’re bad at hair—they fail because they underestimate what it takes to run a business.

If you want to make rental work, you need three things:

Math (understand your real costs), Marketing (build visibility beyond social media), and Mindset (create structure and accountability).

When you nail those, renting becomes sustainable—not stressful.

The Hard Truth

The dream of renting your own salon suite is tempting: freedom, flexibility, and the idea of “keeping all your money.”
But what most people don’t see is the other side of that freedom—the part filled with spreadsheets, stress, and slow months.

At Hello Hair Pro, we see it all the time. Renters go all-in chasing independence, but end up buried under responsibilities they didn’t know existed.

This isn’t to scare anyone—it’s to help you build a foundation strong enough to make that dream last.

The Real Education Gap

Most stylists are trained to do great hair—not to run great businesses.

Cosmetology and Barbering schools focus on the craft, not the cash flow. You learn how to cut, color, and style—not how to price, market, or manage.

Pro Tip: Real education goes beyond balayage and blowouts. It’s about learning how money moves, how clients find you, and how to build something that lasts. Find mentors who are still behind the chair. They understand the realities of modern clients, not just what sounds good on stage or in theory.

When your education matches the phase of growth you’re in, you stop spinning your wheels and start gaining real momentum.

The Accountability Gap

When things get tough, it’s easy to point fingers—at the salon you left, at the clients who ghosted, or at “the market.” But accountability is the dividing line between those who survive and those who thrive.

Pro Tip: Instead of asking “Why isn’t this working?” try asking:

What can I do differently next month?
What systems can I improve?
What skills am I missing that could help?

Freedom isn’t about being alone—it’s about owning your results. Once you embrace that, growth gets a whole lot easier.

Why Suites and Booth Renters Struggle

The freedom of running your own business sounds appealing—until you realize you’re also the accountant, marketer, janitor, and customer service team.

Most renters hit walls because of three key areas that never get enough attention: math, marketing, and mindset.

Math Problems

Many renters only calculate rent—and ignore the real cost of doing business.

Rent and deposits
Insurance and taxes
Back bar and supplies
Software and credit-card fees
Marketing, education, and downtime

Pro Tip: Profit doesn’t happen by accident.

A simplified way to look at your numbers is to calculate your effective hourly rate , which is the amount you actually need to earn per hour after accounting for expenses and desired profit. If a service doesn’t meet or exceed that number, it’s not freedom—it’s loss disguised as flexibility.

Marketing Mistakes

“Posting on Instagram” isn’t a marketing plan.

Most renters rely solely on social media, forgetting that true visibility comes from search engines such as Google, reviews, and personal relationships.

Focus on improving these three areas:

Google Business Profile: It’s free and insanely effective. Add photos, your booking link, and real service descriptions.
Reviews: Ask your happiest clients to share their experience. It’s social proof that instantly builds trust.
Social Media: Post less hair and more you. People buy from people—faces, stories, and emotion connect far deeper than finished looks with arbitrary captions.

Consistency wins. Without it, no one even knows you exist.

Mindset & Structure

Running a business isn’t about being busy—it’s about being intentional.

Freedom without systems is just stress, wearing nice clothes.

Create your foundations: core values, a mission, a vision, and a simple plan.
Build habits: regular scheduling, marketing, and education routines.
Find mentorship: every successful owner has learned from someone ahead of them.

Structure doesn’t kill creativity—it protects it.

How to Rescue a Struggling Suite or Booth Rental Business

If you’ve been renting and feel like you’re barely hanging on—good news—you can fix it.

Here’s a simple 90-day plan to stabilize and rebuild your business without burning out.

Weeks 1–2: Build Your Foundation

Claim your Google Business profile and upload photos there.
Start asking clients for reviews right after appointments.
Audit your expenses so you know exactly what it costs to open your door each day.

Weeks 3–6: Reconnect and Rebuild

Text your past clients and offer something simple to bring them back.
Create a referral system with small rewards.
Start tracking rebooking rates — retention is your secret weapon.

Weeks 7–9: Market Like a Pro

Send a monthly email or text with tips, products, or updates.
Share behind-the-scenes moments on social—not just finished photos.
Keep your name top of mind between appointments.

Weeks 10–12: Audit and Adjust

Raise prices where needed.
Drop services that drain time or profit.
Rebuild your systems for scheduling, supplies, and inventory.

Pro Tip: The goal isn’t to work more—it’s to work smarter and build a real business for yourself. These small steps compound fast.

FAQs: What Booth Renters Need to Know

Final Thoughts

Freedom without structure isn’t freedom—it’s chaos in disguise.

The best suite and booth renters aren’t the busiest or the flashiest; they’re the most intentional.

Start with your math. Strengthen your marketing. Protect your mindset.

You don’t need to overhaul your business overnight—keep making smarter, more strategic moves one step at a time.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

How to Attract Stylists and Booth Renters by Leading With Experience

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 09:00:44 GMT

Forget commission percentages and perks—create a culture and environment that makes people want to join your salon.

Key Takeaways

Start with the experience you want stylists and renters to have, then work backward.
Culture, growth, and mentorship matter more than commission percentages.
Stylists want to belong, feel trusted, be recognized, and have clear growth opportunities.
Booth and suite renters want independence, professionalism, a sense of community without pressure, and respect.
Hiring success comes from authentic culture, not copy-and-paste ads.

Quick Answer

The best way to attract stylists and booth or suite renters is to focus on the experience they’ll have in your salon. When people feel valued, supported, and inspired, they’ll want to stay—regardless of commission rates or amenities.

Why Experience Comes First

Steve Jobs famously said, “Start with the customer experience and work backward.” For salons, this means defining how you want stylists and renters to feel before setting systems or policies. When culture, inspiration, and support come first, commission and rent percentages become secondary.

Common Hiring Mistakes

Leading with numbers: Commission rates and rent prices are not what set you apart. Competing on percentages only starts a race to the bottom.

Generic job ads: “Luxury salon,” “like family,” “cutting-edge”—every salon says these words. Without definition, they mean nothing.

Hiring in desperation: Filling seats just to have people often leads to bad hires and quick turnover.

What Stylists Want in a Salon

Belonging and community
Stylists don’t just want a chair—they want to feel part of something meaningful. A connected team culture creates loyalty and drives referrals, because stylists naturally talk about the place they love to work.

Growth opportunities
Clear mentorship programs and advancement paths help stylists see a future beyond “just cutting hair.” If they know how they can progress, they’ll stay longer and work harder.

Stability and trust in leadership
Consistency in your values and decisions demonstrates to staff that they can rely on you. Leaders who flip-flop on policies or vision lose credibility, while stable leadership attracts ambitious stylists.

Work-life balance (the real kind)
This isn’t about handing out two-day workweeks—it’s about building flexibility into your systems so stylists can rest, recharge, and come back focused. Burned-out staff don’t perform well, and clients can feel it.

Recognition and respect
A simple 'thank you,' a social media spotlight, or a brief acknowledgment in meetings goes a long way. Recognition builds motivation and reinforces the culture you’re trying to create.

What Booth and Suite Renters Want

Professional environment
Renters want their clients to walk into a clean, organized, and welcoming space. Simple things like working plumbing, solid wifi, and good parking often matter more than luxury décor.

Community without pressure
Many renters crave a social environment but don’t want forced “team bonding.” Offering optional events or casual ways to connect allows them to have community on their terms.

Support without control
Renters respect owners who offer guidance, mentorship, or optional education without micromanaging. It keeps them engaged and reduces turnover without stepping on their independence.

Simplicity
Laundry, utilities, and day-to-day operations shouldn’t be headaches. Smooth systems save renters time and stress, making your salon the obvious choice.

Respect for independence
At the end of the day, booth renters are business owners. Treating them with respect instead of as “sub-employees” sets your salon apart and creates mutual trust.

The Hiring Process Done Right

Awareness
Show up online in a way that reflects your real culture—not just polished stock photos. Authentic behind-the-scenes content provides prospective stylists and renters with a genuine understanding of what it's like to work with you.

Exploration
Define your mission, vision, and values clearly so candidates can self-select before applying. This saves time by filtering out people who don’t align.

Interviews as conversations
Skip the robotic question list. Instead, discuss goals, values, and a salon culture fit. If someone doesn’t match your salon’s vision, it won’t work—no matter how skilled they are with scissors.

Onboarding
A structured program makes all the difference. Throwing someone into shadowing or leaving them to “figure it out” leads to frustration. A clear onboarding process proves you’re invested in their success.

Long-term growth
Continue to show stylists and renters where they can go next. Growth opportunities don’t just retain people—they also motivate them to perform at their best every day.

FAQs: Attracting Stylists and Booth Renters

Final Thoughts

Attracting stylists and booth renters isn’t about commission percentages, free rent, or fancy amenities. It’s about creating a culture where people feel supported, inspired, and respected. Start with the experience, work backward into systems and policies, and you’ll naturally attract the right people to your salon.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

How to Improve Staff Retention in Your Salon

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:00:16 GMT

Why salon owners struggle to keep stylists—and proven strategies to build loyalty and long-term culture.

Key Takeaways

Retention is critical: Losing stylists costs time, money, and clients.
Culture drives loyalty: A healthy salon environment keeps people longer than paychecks alone.
Systems matter: Consistent practices in communication, recognition, and leadership reduce turnover.

Quick Answer

Staff retention in salons largely depends on clarity, culture, and effective communication.

When you set expectations, provide growth opportunities, and create a supportive environment, stylists are more likely to stay long-term.

Retention isn’t a single action—it’s the result of systems that consistently show your team they are valued.

Why Staff Retention Matters

Many salon owners invest heavily in training stylists and filling their books, only to watch them leave. This turnover is not only frustrating—it’s expensive. Each stylist represents months or even years of effort in development, marketing, and client building.

When they walk out the door, they often take clients with them, leaving owners scrambling to recover. That’s why retention isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a critical part of building a sustainable business.

Common Challenges Owners Face

Lack of clear expectations: Without defined roles and goals, staff can feel lost.
Limited growth opportunities: Stylists leave if they don’t see a future.
Toxic or weak culture: A negative work environment drives people away, no matter the pay.
Poor communication: Issues go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Lack of recognition: Stylists who feel invisible often move on.

These challenges are fixable—but only with intentional action.

Strategies That Work

Set Clear Expectations
From day one, define success. Be transparent about responsibilities, standards, and the pathway to growth. Clarity removes confusion and builds trust.
Provide Career Pathways
Show stylists this isn’t just a job—it’s a career. Whether through education, mentorship, or leadership opportunities, provide them with a reason to picture themselves long-term in your salon.
Build Positive Culture
Culture isn’t pizza parties. It’s the everyday environment—how people are treated, how they feel when they walk in, and whether they feel supported. A positive culture outweighs financial compensation when it comes to employee retention.
Hold Regular One-on-Ones
Check-ins aren’t just for performance. Ask how they’re doing personally and professionally. Use this time to identify problems early and celebrate wins.
Recognize and Celebrate Success
Recognition matters more than most owners realize. A simple, “I noticed your rebooking rate improved this month,” can go further than a bonus. Consistent recognition builds loyalty.

Culture and Leadership

Leadership sets the tone. Owners and managers must model the behaviors they expect: positivity, consistency, and support. Without strong leadership, even talented teams will drift.

Culture is also built through small, consistent actions—welcoming each other in the morning, backing each other up, and encouraging personal growth. This daily commitment fosters an environment where people want to stay because they feel comfortable and safe.

FAQ: Salon Staff Retention

Final Thoughts

Retention isn’t solved by one thing. It’s a collection of systems and habits: clarity, opportunity, culture, communication, and recognition.

When salon owners commit to building these into their daily operations, turnover decreases and loyalty grows. Your stylists aren’t just employees—they’re partners in the success of your business.

Want more insights? Listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode on staff retention below!

How to Balance Retention and New Client Acquisition in Your Salon

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 23:26:21 GMT

“Updated September 26, 2025”

Why your salon needs both loyal clients and new clients to grow—and how to build systems for each.

Key Takeaways

Retention = stability.
Loyal clients provide reliable revenue, accept price increases, and refer new business.
Acquisition = growth.
New clients replace natural turnover and fuel expansion for newer stylists.
Strong salons need both.
Focusing on one or the other will limit your business; systems for both ensure long-term success.

Quick Answer

Salon success depends on balancing client retention (keeping existing clients coming back) with client acquisition (bringing in new ones).

Retention creates reliable revenue and stronger client relationships, while acquisition ensures growth and replaces natural client turnover.

Focusing solely on one will eventually limit your business; salons need both to thrive.

What Is Client Retention?

Client retention refers to maintaining the loyalty of your current clients to your salon.

Retained clients are more profitable because:

They visit consistently, giving you a predictable income.
They accept price increases more easily.
They bring referrals by recommending you to friends and family.
They make your job more enjoyable since you build relationships over time.

Retention builds stability and long-term growth.

“The hair is expected. What makes clients stay is the relationship, the experience, and the way you make them feel.” –Jen Ford

What Is Client Acquisition?

Client acquisition is the process of attracting new clients to your salon.

This matters because:

Clients naturally move away, reduce their visits, or shift their priorities.
New clients prevent your business from plateauing.
Acquisition fills the chairs of newer stylists and fuels expansion.

Acquisition keeps your salon dynamic and growing.

Why Your Salon Needs Both

If you only focus on retention, you risk losing revenue when clients leave. If you only focus on acquisition, you’ll spend more time and money chasing new business without building loyalty.

The strongest salon businesses build systems for both—ensuring steady income while continuously attracting new faces.

Retention Strategies That Work

Consult Every Visit
Avoid the lazy “same as last time?” approach. Every client deserves a fresh consultation, even regulars and family members. Ask what they loved, what they’d change, and what they need now. This demonstrates attentiveness and prevents clients from considering trying out another stylist who makes them feel heard.
Personalize with Notes
Use your booking software to track more than just formulas. Record personal details—like “headed to a wedding next month” or “just adopted a puppy.” Referencing these at the next visit makes clients feel special and connected to you. It takes 10 seconds and makes retention effortless.
Follow Up
Most salons confirm appointments, but few follow up afterward. A quick text the next day with styling tips or a product link shows clients you care beyond the chair. For example: “Here’s the brush technique I mentioned yesterday—let me know how it goes!” That’s retention gold.
Invest in Hospitality
Hospitality is not just handing out water bottles. It’s anticipating needs and creating small moments of delight. Greet clients warmly, keep your salon spotless, and create an inviting environment. The “feel” of your salon is what makes people rebook as much as the haircut itself.
Coach Your Team
Retention is a learned skill. Roleplay consultations, give scripts, and encourage small “nudges” of progress. For example, if a new stylist struggles with nerves, practice slowing down with them instead of just pointing out mistakes. Confident, happy staff = clients who return.

Acquisition Strategies That Work

Invest in SEO + Google Ads
Showing up where clients are searching is non-negotiable. DIY SEO rarely cuts it—hire a pro to optimize your site and run targeted ads. At Hello Hair, this was the single best decision we made: new clients book with us daily, even at the last minute, because they find us online first.
Use Re-Engagement Tools
Your software likely has tools to text or email clients who haven’t booked in their usual timeframe. These gentle reminders often bring back clients who got busy. One of Jen’s clients recently returned after years away thanks to automated “We miss you!” reminders.
Post on Social Media With Purpose
Forget the endless back-of-head shots. Show faces, tell stories, and highlight the transformation. Potential clients want to see happy people, not just perfect hair. A smiling client captioned with “Jamie wanted lower-maintenance color, here’s how we solved it” is far more effective.
Collect Reviews
Google reviews are often the deciding factor for new clients choosing between salons. Don’t bribe clients for reviews—inspire them. A great experience naturally leads to positive feedback, and each review makes your salon more visible.
Get Into the Community
Digital marketing is vital, but so is physical presence. Cross-promote with gyms, boutiques, or cafés near you. Attend local events, sponsor a team, or host small workshops. Community presence builds trust long before a client walks through your doors.

Key Metrics to Track

Retention Metrics: rebooking rate, average visits per client, client lifetime value.
Acquisition Metrics: new clients per month, cost per client, referral numbers.

Tracking both gives you a clear picture of your salon’s health.

FAQ: Retention vs. Acquisition in Salons

Final Thoughts

A salon cannot survive solely on retention or acquisition. Loyal clients provide stability, while new clients keep your business vibrant and growing. When you master both, you create a salon that thrives today and in the years to come.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

"Last updated September 26, 2025"

Booth Rental vs Commission Salons: The Real Costs Every Stylist Should Know

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 23:12:21 GMT

“Updated September 26, 2025”

What salon owners and stylists need to understand about booth rental and commission models before choosing a path.

Key Takeaways

Rental = independence. Freedom and control come with significant financial and business responsibilities.
Commission = support. Mentorship, structure, and shared systems create stability and growth if leadership is strong.
Neither model is “better.” Success depends on demand, pricing, and business understanding—not just years in the industry.

Quick Answer

Booth rental offers independence and full responsibility for running a business, while commission-based salons provide structure, mentorship, and career growth opportunities.

Both models can succeed, but stylists often underestimate the hidden costs of rental or the leadership challenges of commission. Choosing the right fit means weighing your demand, financial preparedness, and long-term goals.

The debate: Is Booth Rental Ruining the Salon Industry?

Some argue that rentals are “destroying the industry.” In reality, this belief often comes from fear or frustration.

Commission-based salons that failed to evolve fueled the rise of rental salons. Many relied on outdated playbooks, forced non-compete agreements, and ignored what modern stylists wanted.

Stylists seeking freedom flocked to rental, proving there was demand for alternatives. Neither model is inherently good or bad—both require leadership, structure, and clear expectations.

What Booth Rental vs Commission Really Means

At its core, choosing between booth rental and commission comes down to one question:

Do you want independence or guidance?

Rental = Independence. Full responsibility for pricing, expenses, and growth.
Commission = Support. Shared systems, mentorship, and structure.

Both models can work, but many stylists blindly jump into renting without realizing that doing hair and running a business are two separate skill sets. Being talented behind the chair doesn’t guarantee success in business ownership.

Hidden Costs of Booth Rental (What Nobody Tells You)

One of the most misleading marketing pitches in the rental world is: “You keep all your money.”

Here’s the truth: booth rental comes with dozens of expenses stylists don’t always anticipate, including:

Rent + deposits (often with key fees and contracts)
Taxes and prep costs
Build-out expenses (mirrors, lighting, shelving, paint, sanitation supplies, signage)
Licensing & insurance (liability, property, business interruption)
Inventory (back bar, color, retail, gloves, towels)
Software & systems (booking, payment processing, client communication, email marketing)
Professional services (accountant, lawyer, music licensing, trash removal, utilities)
Education & community (classes, branding, marketing, continued growth)

These add up quickly. If you’re not pricing correctly, they can outweigh the “freedom” you thought you were buying.

Why Booth Rental Can Be Risky for New Grads

Some rental owners target cosmetology grads immediately after they finish school. This is dangerous.

New grads lack the technical skill and vision to thrive on their own.
They don’t yet understand taxes, pricing, or marketing.
They risk overwhelm, burnout, or failure without mentorship.
A safer path? If renting is the absolute goal, find a commission salon that provides training and support. Once a stylist builds demand and learns the business side, rental becomes a more sensible option.

How Commission Salons Can Stay Competitive

Commission salons also share responsibility for the rise of booth rental. Many failed to evolve and lost trust by:

Forcing rigid schedules
Offering outdated pay structures
Ignoring the needs of new stylists

Today’s opportunity is to innovate and offer what modern stylists value:

Clear career paths
Fair, transparent pay
Flexible schedules and mentorship
A culture built on hospitality, not control

Will You Thrive in the Rental Model?

Before jumping into booth rental or a suite, ask yourself:

Do I have 3–4 months of expenses saved?
Am I 90–100% booked with loyal clients?
Do I know my costs per service (what it costs you to deliver each service) and back bar percentages?
Have I priced out insurance, software, taxes, and retirement?
Am I ready to handle admin—or pay to outsource it?
Do I have a plan for continued education and community?

If you can’t confidently answer “yes” to all, reconsider whether booth rental is right for you right now.

The Coming Shift Back to Commission

Industry leaders predict a swing back toward commission—but only for those salons that innovate.

Poorly run commission salons will close.
Rental operators offering too many freebies without profit will fail.
All salons without vision will disappear.

The survivors will be commission salons with culture, mentorship, and growth paths—and rental operators who treat their business seriously.

Why We Love Our Model at Hello Hair

At Hello Hair, we’ve proven that demand—not seniority—drives pricing and raises. Those who put in the work see success.

For example, Jen’s apprentice, Madison, hit the halfway point in her apprenticeship and was already fully servicing clients. She’ll likely see a price increase before she’s even licensed because her demand is strong.

Meanwhile, a former stylist with five years of experience struggled to establish a client base, yet wanted to charge more than others because she claimed, "She had her license longer."

As Todd explained: “Any % of zero is still zero.”

Years don’t guarantee success—demand, results, and effort do.

FAQ: Booth Rental vs Commission Salons

Final Thoughts

The rental vs commission debate isn’t about which is “better.” It’s about truly understanding what each model requires.

Rental offers independence but with significant costs and responsibilities.
Commission offers support and growth—but only when owners lead well.

Instead of pointing fingers, the industry should be asking: How can we strengthen both models?

At Hello Hair, we believe everyone can flourish when they understand the truth behind their choices.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

"Last updated September 26, 2025"

Salon Growth Strategies: Why Evolution Beats Complacency

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 22:35:51 GMT

“Updated September 26, 2025”

How salon owners can adapt, innovate, and evolve to stay profitable and keep their team thriving.

Key Takeaways

Complacency looks like “my business is fine” — but in reality, it means stagnation.
The hidden costs of not evolving include shrinking margins, staff turnover, and a decline in client interest.
Small, intentional changes (nudges) compound into long-term growth and culture.

Quick Answer

Salons that fail to evolve end up stagnant, losing staff, clients, and profit margins. Evolution means making small, consistent changes in systems, culture, and client experience to ensure your business thrives in the long term.

Why Evolution is Essential for Salon Growth

When you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind. The industry keeps moving—prices rise, inflation eats at margins, and client expectations shift.

If you aren’t adapting your systems, team culture, and client experience, you’re already losing ground.

Complacency looks like:

Telling yourself, “My business is fine.”
Keeping the same systems in place forever.
Assuming clients and staff will always be satisfied with the status quo.

The reality? The world changes, and salons must change with it.

Hidden Costs of Salon Complacency

Keeping things “the way they’ve always been” comes with steep consequences:

Shrinking profit margins: If your haircut price hasn’t changed in years, inflation means you’re effectively making less money every month.
Staff frustration and turnover: Top performers will outgrow your salon if you don’t create new opportunities for them.
Declining client interest: Clients crave freshness. Even small updates to products, stations, or service menus keep them engaged.
Erosion of culture: When systems fail to evolve, staff lose focus, and accountability suffers.

Signs Your Salon is Stagnant

Complacency can creep in unnoticed, especially if you’re behind the chair every day. Watch for these red flags:

You haven’t raised prices in 2+ years.
Systems live only in your head or are “just verbal.”
Staff repeatedly ask the same questions because nothing is documented.
Growth has plateaued—revenue and bookings are flat.
You confuse “stability” with “stagnation.”

How to Keep Your Salon Evolving

Breaking free from complacency doesn’t mean overhauling everything overnight. In fact, massive changes often backfire. Instead, think of nudges —small, consistent shifts that compound into lasting growth.

Practical ways to evolve your business:

Audit systems annually.
Review everything from cleaning lists to onboarding. Even 1% yearly improvement adds up.
Update pricing with confidence.
Tie increases to utilization and data, not random numbers.
Refresh experiences.
Rotate stations, switch up products, or reorganize spaces. Small changes create energy.
Offer new staff opportunities.
Create leadership roles, education programs, or specialty tracks to keep top performers engaged.
Seek outside perspectives.
Learn from mentors or other industries, such as hospitality or retail.

Evolution is Leadership in Action

Staying the same is easier—but leadership means choosing the more challenging path. Strong salon owners adapt, innovate, and make changes before problems show up.

The best owners aren’t afraid to:

Rewrite cleaning lists to keep accountability.
Introduce new systems, even when uncomfortable.
Seek staff input and filter it to make informed decisions.
Let go of people who refuse to grow.

FAQ: Salon Evolution and Growth

Final Thoughts

Evolution isn’t about change for the sake of change—it’s about intentional adjustments that keep your salon thriving in today’s world. If you’re not evolving, you’re not just standing still—you’re moving backward.

The good news? You don’t need to overhaul everything at once. Start small, keep making nudges, and watch the compounding effect transform your salon.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

"Last updated September 26th"

How to Build a Salon Clientele Without Discounts

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 14:22:18 GMT

Why discounts hurt more than they help—and proven strategies to attract loyal salon clients.

"Updated September 27, 2025"

Key Takeaways

Discounts train clients to value price over service, creating churn.
Retention, rebooking, referrals, and hospitality are far more powerful growth strategies.
Solving client problems builds loyalty and attracts the right people.

Quick Answer

Discounts might bring short-term traffic but usually attract price-driven clients who rarely stay loyal. The most effective way to build a clientele is by focusing on rebooking, solving client problems, leveraging referrals, and offering exceptional hospitality—not cutting prices.

Why Discounts Don’t Build Loyal Clients

Discounts create short-term spikes but long-term problems:

They attract discount chasers who won’t stick around.
They reduce profit when stylists and businesses need more revenue, not less.
They devalue your services and train clients to wait for “the next deal.”

As Todd shared, discount deals at his former gym filled the space temporarily, but 99% of those clients disappeared within weeks. The same happens in salons.

Better Strategies to Build a Clientele

1. Focus on Rebooking

The easiest person to sell to is someone who already trusts you. Encourage rebooking while clients are still in your chair —not after they’ve checked out and their minds are elsewhere.

2. Leverage Referrals

Identify your best clients (high spenders who you love to see) and ask them directly for referrals. People love connecting friends to their favorite stylist or barber.

3. Create Emotional Connections

On social media–photos of happy clients— featuring smiling faces , not just the back of their heads—spark trust and evoke emotion. Use captions to show how you solve client problems, not just to list arbitrary hair colors or techniques.

4. Add Value Instead of Discounts

Offer samples, treatments, or exclusive perks. For example:

A free scalp treatment to surprise and delight.
Priority booking for loyal clients.
A bundled “care package” at a premium price rather than cutting costs.

5. Market Smarter

At Hello Hair, investing in a professional website, SEO, and Google Ads has been the single biggest driver of consistent new clients. Unlike social media “likes,” this strategy attracts people who are ready to book.

Memberships Without Discounts

Memberships can work—but not if they’re discount-based. Instead, package solutions to real client problems and charge a premium. Example: a scalp health membership that includes services + retail products bundled together for convenience and results.

Community & Visibility

Discounts won’t build a brand, but visibility + relationships will. Get out in your community, connect with other business owners, and be present where your ideal clients spend time. Free services (for the right partners) can be effective because people don’t become accustomed to free in the same way they do to discounts.

FAQ: Building a Salon Clientele

Final Thoughts

Discounts may seem like an easy fix, but they erode profits and attract the wrong clients. If you want to build a strong, loyal clientele, focus on:

Retention and rebooking
Referrals
Solving problems
Delivering consistent hospitality

At Hello Hair, we’ve proven that loyalty and trust—not discounts—create growth that lasts.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

"Last updated September 27, 2025"

How to Raise Salon Prices the Right Way (Without Losing Clients)

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 15:17:45 GMT

"Updated September 27, 2025"

How to choose smart price increases, avoid PR headaches, and protect profit.

Key Takeaways

Flat dollar increases ($5/$10) create inconsistency and sticker shock on low-ticket services.
Tiny percentage bumps (3–5%) rarely move profit and aren’t worth the admin stress.
Use strategic percentage ranges (10–20%+) based on numbers, demand, and positioning.
Stop public announcements—notify clients privately at checkout or via confirmations.
Leadership, hospitality, and clarity keep good clients—even with higher prices.

Quick Answer

The most reliable way to raise salon prices without losing clients is to use a strategic percentage increase (typically 10–20%+), tied to your numbers, demand, and positioning—not arbitrary $5 or 3% bumps. Communicate one-to-one at checkout or with confirmations, and reinforce value through hospitality and consistent service.

Why $5 Flat Increases Don’t Work

A $5 increase on a $20 service is a 25% jump, whereas a $5 increase on a $300 service is only 1.6%. Flat amounts create inconsistent client experiences and usually fail to protect margins on high-ticket services.

Why 3% Is Too Low to Matter

A 3% change on a $100 haircut ($103) often isn’t worth the software changes and anxiety it can create. It rarely keeps pace with costs and won’t materially improve profit.

Stop the Public Announcements

Price updates are a normal business practice. Avoid apology posts and “we tried to hold off” language.

Instead, notify clients privately:

“Today’s cut is $100. Next time it will be $120.”

Then stop talking. Don’t project your finances onto clients—let them decide.

What Your Pricing Should Be Based On

Your numbers: cost of goods, labor, expenses, and profit margin targets (aim for 20–30%).
Demand: how booked you are and how far out—don’t wait for 100% to act.
Positioning: brand strength, skill, reputation, and reviews.
Perceived value: hospitality, consistency, trust, and overall experience.
Not education alone: ongoing education is a prerequisite, not a pricing lever for clients.

Case Study: Hello Hair’s August Price Update

Nine team members received raises between 15% and 25% (with a few outliers corrected, equalling a 40% increase).

Result: zero client loss, and one of the busiest weeks of new bookings—because clients value consistency, hospitality, and trust.

How to Raise Prices (Step-by-Step)

Audit your numbers: costs, break-even, profit margin targets, and demand.
Choose a percentage: typically 10–20%+
Set timing: once or twice per year works well; align with seasonality if helpful.
Prep your team: script delivery; coach confidence; practice “state it, then stop talking.”
Communicate 1:1: inform at checkout or via confirmations; avoid social media blasts.
Reinforce value: consultations, hospitality, and consistent delivery.
Stand firm: no apologizing, no over-explaining, no backpedaling.

Client Psychology

Clients leave for poor service and communication far more often than for reasonable price changes. The right clients for your business will adjust—those who don’t make room for better-fit clients at your new price point.

FAQ: Raising Salon Prices Without Losing Clients

Final Thoughts

Raising salon prices doesn’t have to be scary or complicated. When you base your increases on real numbers, communicate clearly, and lean into hospitality, most clients will stay—and the right clients will see even more value in your services.

At Hello Hair Pro, we’ve seen firsthand that thoughtful price changes not only protect profit but also strengthen client trust and team confidence. The key is consistency: make adjustments regularly, stand by them, and keep delivering great experiences.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

"Last updated September 27, 2025"

Finding the Right Mentor and Setting Non-Negotiables in Your Salon

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 16:13:03 GMT

"Updated September 27, 2025"

How mentorship, leadership, and clear standards can protect your business and help it grow.

Key Takeaways

Mentorship is powerful, but the wrong mentor can damage your business.
Business ownership is not as simple as “set your own hours”—it requires resilience, adaptability, and leadership.
Scams and setbacks are part of entrepreneurship—how you respond matters.
Non-negotiables rooted in core values create clarity and protect your culture.
Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s how you find the right solutions faster.

Quick Answer

The fastest way to grow your salon and avoid burnout is by pairing the right mentor with clear non-negotiables. Mentors should help you develop strategies tailored to your business, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all agenda. Non-negotiables, built from your core values, keep your team accountable and your culture strong.

The Reality of Business Ownership

Many stylists believe that moving into ownership means freedom: “I’ll keep all the money and set my own hours.” The truth is the opposite. Ownership means wearing multiple hats—technician, manager, mentor, financial strategist—and often working more, not less. Boundaries matter, but flexibility and responsibility are non-negotiable.

Mentorship: Finding the Right Fit

Not all mentors are equal. Some rely on templates that ignore the uniqueness of your salon. The right mentor will:

Listen first.
Customize solutions to your team and goals.
Challenge you while supporting your vision.
Teach you how to think strategically, not just follow a checklist.

Red flag: If a mentor imposes their own agenda or if their own business isn’t profitable, they can do more harm than good.

Lessons from Bad Mentorship

We’ve experienced both good and bad mentors. One of the bad ones pushed corporate strategies that crushed our small-business culture. The good ones helped us clarify numbers, make tough decisions, and build from our strengths.

The takeaway: don’t outsource your vision. A mentor should grow you, not themselves.

The Power of Asking for Help

Embarrassment often holds people back. They don’t know what to say, so they don’t reach out. The truth? All you need to say is: “I need help.” Good mentors will draw out the information they need and guide you toward clarity.

Non-Negotiables: Why They Matter

Non-negotiables are the behaviors and standards you refuse to compromise on. They protect your culture, reduce conflict, and set expectations. Examples include:

Cleanliness and workstation standards.
Communication through agreed channels.
Respect for client time and team schedules.

Clear non-negotiables help eliminate grey areas where resentment and inconsistency fester.

FAQ: Mentorship and Non-Negotiables in Salons

Final Thoughts

Owning a salon is not about freedom from responsibility—it’s about embracing leadership. By choosing mentors who support your vision and enforcing non-negotiables, you protect your culture and set your team up for long-term success.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Read the full episode transcript here.

"Last updated September 27, 2025"

Why Salon Culture and Leadership Matter More Than Perks

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 16:46:25 GMT

"Updated September 27, 2025"

Staff retention isn’t about discounts or perks—it’s about leadership, culture, and treating people like humans.

Key Takeaways

Perks don’t solve staff retention—it’s built on leadership and accountability.
Asking your staff why they stay can reveal the strengths of your salon culture.
Leadership means pushing people toward growth, not just keeping them comfortable.
Accountability matters—deliver on promises and set clear expectations.
Treating staff like people, not “money robots,” builds loyalty and trust.

Quick Answer

The most effective way to retain staff in your salon is to prioritize leadership, culture, and accountability. Perks and discounts won’t keep people long-term—clear expectations, growth opportunities, and treating people with respect will.

What Your Staff Really Wants

When we asked our team why they stay, we didn’t hear “because of the paycheck” or “because of perks.” Instead, we heard:

“You treat us like humans, not money robots.”
“This salon feels like home.”
“You push us toward growth.”

Culture, accountability, and leadership were the common threads—not surface-level benefits.

Leadership: Push and Support

Leadership isn’t just about setting rules—it’s about creating growth opportunities. That means:

Setting uncomfortable but achievable goals.
Following through on every promise.
Holding people accountable with compassion.

Your staff doesn’t just want to “be comfortable.” They want to grow, and they need leaders who will guide them on their journey.

Accountability in Action

One of the reasons our staff trusts us is that we consistently deliver on our promises. At our kickoff meeting, we outlined the goals and classes for the year. By mid-year, we had completed every single one. Accountability builds credibility—and credibility builds loyalty.

Why Culture Beats Perks

Perks like free coffee or casual Fridays might make people smile, but they don’t build long-term retention. Culture does. A culture of respect, collaboration, and growth transforms your salon into a place people want to visit—even on their days off.

FAQ: Staff Retention and Leadership

Final Thoughts

Staff retention isn’t about gimmicks or perks—it’s about building a salon culture rooted in leadership, accountability, and respect. When you treat people like humans, deliver on your promises, and push them toward growth, they’ll want to stay.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

"Last updated Septmeber 27, 2025"

How to Build a Strong Salon Team: Training, Education, and Retention

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 17:55:38 GMT

"Updated September 27, 2025"

Stop chasing unicorn stylists—learn how to build your own pipeline of talent through education, culture, and leadership.

Key Takeaways

Chasing “unicorn hires” rarely works—focus on building talent from within.
Apprenticeships and training programs give you a steady pipeline of skilled stylists.
Creating a culture of accountability and growth keeps staff loyal.
Education never stops—leaders must continue to evolve their systems.
Hiring for character and culture fit is just as important as technical skills.

Quick Answer

The best way to grow and retain your salon team is to build your own pipeline of stylists through apprenticeships and strong education programs. Instead of waiting for a perfect hire, focus on systems, culture, and leadership that support growth.

Stop Chasing Unicorns

Many salon owners dream about finding the “perfect stylist” with a full book of clients. The reality? Those stylists already have plans, and they’re not waiting to rescue your business. Banking on one miracle hire is risky and unsustainable.

The real solution is to develop your own pipeline of talent—new stylists, apprentices, and motivated hair pros who can grow under your systems and culture.

Building an Education Funnel

Think of your salon like a professional sports team. The pros rely on development leagues to build future talent. Salons should do the same.

Education programs provide a steady stream of trained stylists who are familiar with your standards and culture. This reduces risk, ensures consistency, and strengthens your business in the long term.

At Hello Hair, every stylist—whether new or seasoned—undergoes a model work assessment and customized training before taking on clients. This maintains high standards and builds trust with clients.

Apprenticeships and Fast-Track Education

In states like New Hampshire, apprenticeships allow salons to train stylists directly under the supervision of a licensed professional. Even outside of apprenticeship states, you can implement structured training.

The key is balance:

Push forward, not hold back. New hires should progress as quickly as possible while maintaining high-quality standards.
Give early wins. Even getting new hires on the floor with blow dries builds confidence and loyalty.
Customize education. Every stylist learns differently, so adapt training to each person.

Accountability and Standards

Accountability is a non-negotiable. Every new service added to a stylist’s menu must meet your salon’s standards. At Hello Hair, clients know they can trust any service because it has been thoroughly tested, approved, and reinforced through ongoing education.

Education isn’t a one-time process—it’s an ongoing process. From blowouts to advanced color, every stylist continues to learn and be evaluated.

Culture Over Perks

Clients and staff don’t stay because of perks—they stay because of culture. A culture of growth, honesty, and collaboration retains loyalty.

That means being upfront with clients, admitting when something isn’t your specialty, and supporting each other as a team. Integrity creates trust—and trust creates retention.

FAQ: Building and Retaining a Salon Team

Final Thoughts

The strongest salons don’t rely on miracle hires. They build, train, and grow their own people through systems, culture, and accountability. By investing in education and creating a development pipeline, you’ll create a team that thrives for years to come.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

"Last updated September 27, 2025"

Salon Staff Retention: Proven Strategies to Build, Lead, and Keep a Thriving Team

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 19:34:35 GMT

"Updated September 27, 2025"

How to hire smart, create opportunities, and build a culture where stylists stay long-term.

Key Takeaways

Retention is built on leadership, structure, and culture—not commission percentages.
Always be interviewing, even when you’re not hiring.
Clear career paths keep stylists motivated and loyal.
Apprenticeships and education pipelines create long-term stability.
Leadership and energy start with the owner—you set the tone.

Quick Answer

Salon staff retention comes from leadership, systems, and culture—not gimmicks or chasing unicorn hires. By building education pipelines, showing clear career paths, and creating an accountable yet supportive culture, you’ll keep your team thriving for the long haul.

Always Be Interviewing

Keep connections alive: Even if you’re not actively hiring, meet new grads, attend school events, and keep your salon visible. Building relationships early ensures that you’re never starting from scratch when turnover occurs.

Understand new generations: Regular contact with schools and recent grads keeps you informed about what’s being taught and what young stylists value in employers.

Reduce panic hiring: A steady pipeline of contacts makes filling a sudden vacancy far less stressful.

Show Clear Career Paths

Transparent pay structures: Remove the mystery. Stylists should know exactly what benchmarks lead to raises or promotions. Transparency reduces turnover caused by frustration.

Growth timelines: Outline clear 6–18 month career stages. Whether it’s advanced technical training, mentorship opportunities, or leadership roles, a roadmap helps people envision a future with you.

Beyond the chair: Not every stylist’s dream is just hair. Offering opportunities to teach, mentor, or participate in business-building projects increases engagement and retention.

Build Your Own Education Pipeline

Apprenticeships matter: Stop chasing unicorn hires. Apprenticeships and school-to-salon training programs give you loyal team members who know your culture from day one.

In-house training: Develop systems for testing and approving each service. At Hello Hair, no stylist goes on the floor without first passing an internal standard.

Mentorship for loyalty: Encouraging senior stylists to teach and mentor newer team members not only builds skills but also strengthens team culture.

Systems, Standards, and Flexibility

Consistency through systems: Clear cleaning lists, service standards, and consultation scripts ensure consistency across the team. This builds client trust and loyalty.

Enforce accountability: Systems mean nothing without accountability. Follow through on policies fairly and consistently.

Flexibility when needed: Strike a balance between accountability and humanity. Flexibility—such as allowing Saturdays off—shows staff they’re valued as individuals, not just workers.

Rethink Hiring: Station Sharing and Broad Foundations

Station shifting: This allows flexibility in scheduling, maximizes floor space productivity, and creates collaboration between stylists. It reduces bottlenecks and helps newer stylists ease into busy schedules.

Broad team foundations: Don’t rely on just a few heavy hitters. Build a team large enough that losing one or two doesn’t break the business. A strong base protects your revenue and culture.

Culture-first hiring: Hire not just for skill but for alignment with your salon’s values and standards. Skills can be trained; culture fit cannot.

Leadership and Energy Start With You

Lead by example: Your energy, positivity, and professionalism set the tone. Staff mirror your behavior.

Invest in your numbers: A confident leader knows their costs, margins, and break-even points. This avoids the “commission wars” trap and gives you leverage to lead effectively.

Culture over commission: The best stylists choose growth and mentorship over an extra percentage. Lead with culture, not paychecks.

FAQs: Salon Staff Retention Strategies Answered

Final Thoughts

Retention isn’t about perks or chasing unicorn hires. It’s about building systems, culture, and opportunities that people want to be part of. With leadership, education, and accountability, you can create a team that thrives for years.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

"Last updated September 27, 2025"

How to Run a Successful Commission Salon in 2025 (Part 3)

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 18:31:29 GMT

"Updated September 30, 2025"

Systems, delegation, and leadership strategies that keep your salon running—even when you’re away.

This is Part 3 of our mini-series on running a successful commission salon in 2025. Read Part 1 here | Read Part 2 here

Key Takeaways

Strong systems allow owners to step away and still have the salon run smoothly.
Culture is built in the hard days , not the easy ones.
Delegation frees up owners to focus on leadership rather than daily tasks.
Staff buy-in stems from clear expectations, simple systems, and a clear explanation of the why .
Meetings, communication, and generational awareness are essential to long-term growth.

Quick Answer

To run a successful commission salon in 2025, you must create systems that work without you, delegate responsibilities, and invest in leadership that inspires your team. With the right structure, your salon can thrive even when you’re not in the building.

Systems That Set You Free

The vacation test: If you can leave for 30 days and your business still runs, you’ve built a true business—not just a job for yourself.

Clear protocols: Staff should know exactly what to do in your absence—from scheduling to cleaning.

Professional pride: When systems are respected, staff take pride in running the salon smoothly, even when owners are not present.

Delegation and Growth

Delegate cleaning and admin: Owners shouldn’t get stuck in the weeds of daily upkeep. By assigning cleaning duties or small admin tasks to team members, you free yourself to focus on leadership. This also gives staff a sense of ownership in the business.

Education team: Create opportunities for senior stylists to lead in-house classes or mentor apprentices. This builds their leadership skills while reducing the burden on owners to handle all education themselves.

Create opportunities internally: Whenever possible, let staff take on extra responsibilities such as managing retail, cleaning programs, or social media. Internal opportunities increase engagement and make employees feel more invested in the salon’s success.

Communication and Meetings

Choose a system for communication: Using a central hub for messages eliminates confusion. Staff members always know where to look for updates, and owners can stay informed without needing to constantly monitor day-to-day tasks. At Hello, we use Slack.

Structured one-on-ones: Hold intentional check-ins at least twice a year. Use these to review progress, address concerns, and set goals. Consistent one-on-ones build trust and show staff you’re invested in their growth.

Leadership accountability: Meetings aren’t just about staff performance—they’re also about owner accountability. Ask your team what you can do better, and be willing to take action on their feedback. This humility strengthens respect and loyalty.

Culture Built on Simplicity

Easy systems: Complicated processes create frustration. Systems should be intuitive, allowing staff to follow them without needing constant reminders. Simplicity is the foundation of consistency.

Explain the why: When staff understand the purpose behind a system—whether it’s a cleaning checklist or consultation script—they’re far more likely to follow it consistently.

Shared stations & space: Rotating stations prevent drama, improve flexibility, and help the salon adapt as the team grows. Shared spaces encourages collaboration instead of territorial attitudes.

Understanding New Generations

Interview often: Even when you don’t have open chairs, meet new grads and keep conversations going. This keeps your pipeline warm and helps you stay connected to what young professionals value.

Meet needs proactively: Many stylists today face anxiety or burnout. Owners who encourage breaks, hydration, nutrition, or simple check-ins demonstrate that they care, which in turn builds loyalty.

Respect professionals early: Treat new grads like pros while offering structured support. Respect inspires confidence, while training ensures quality. This combination creates long-term retention.

FAQs: Commission Salon Systems and Leadership

Final Thoughts

Running a successful commission salon isn’t about micromanagement—it’s about creating systems, delegating responsibility, and leading with purpose. When your salon can operate without you, you’ve built a business that gives you freedom and your team opportunity.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

Continue the series: Read Part 1 | Read Part 2

"Last updated September 30, 2025"

How to Run a Successful Commission Salon in 2025 (Part 2)

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 18:32:40 GMT

"Updated September 30, 2025"

How to hire the right people, build a culture that lasts, and keep your team engaged.

This is Part 2 of our mini-series on running a successful commission salon in 2025. Read Part 1 here | Jump to Part 3 here

Key Takeaways

Hiring for personality and culture fit beats hiring for technical skill.
Your team must buy into your mission, vision, and values —or the salon won’t thrive.
Offer constant opportunities for growth: education, mentorship, and leadership roles.
Small gestures of support (like flexibility, or even a bigger fridge) can strengthen loyalty.
Conflict is inevitable—leaders must face it head-on and help staff respectfully resolve issues.

Quick Answer

Running a successful commission salon isn’t just about bringing people in—it’s about keeping them. Hire for personality, build a culture around your core values, and constantly provide growth opportunities to find success. When staff feel supported and respected, they’ll choose your salon over the many “dangling carrots” of outside offers.

Hiring the Right People

Hire for personality, not skill: Skills can be taught. Culture fit cannot. A stylist who aligns with your values will become a stronger team member than someone who resists.

Add a shadow day: Before hiring, have candidates shadow the team to gain a deeper understanding of the role. This shows how they interact with staff and whether they’re aligned.

Test with models—but only after hiring: At Hello Hair, models aren’t used to determine if someone gets hired, but to customize their education plan.

Building Buy-In Through Culture

Mission clarity: Staff must understand your “why.” Mistakes happen when leaders don’t fully believe in their own vision.

Support staff first: At Hello Hair, leadership prioritizes taking care of stylists, so they can, in turn, take care of clients.

Community-driven education: Encourage staff to teach classes. This builds engagement, leadership skills, and culture from within.

Opportunities That Keep Staff Engaged

Daily education: Small, consistent lessons keep skills sharp and confidence high.

Teaching opportunities: Staff who lead classes gain recognition, increased income, and opportunities for leadership growth.

Surprise & delight: Simple improvements—as simple as upgrading the breakroom fridge—show you listen and care.

Fun challenges: Google review contests, social media games, or team activities create energy when used sparingly.

Respect and Professionalism

Treat staff as adults: Respect their time, encourage self-care, and give them room to step up.

Flexibility matters: Allow time off when needed. Staff who feel supported won’t be tempted by outside offers.

Conflict resolution: Misunderstandings will happen. Address them quickly, encourage direct communication, and mediate only when needed.

FAQs: Commission Salon Culture and Retention

Final Thoughts

Commission salons succeed not just by hiring, but by creating an environment people want to stay in. When leaders support staff, provide growth opportunities, and handle conflict with respect, the culture becomes a magnet that keeps stylists engaged for the long term.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

Continue the series: Read Part 1 | Read Part 3

"Last updated September 30, 2025"

How to Run a Successful Commission Salon in 2025 (Part 1)

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:37:00 GMT

"Updated September 30, 2025"

Why foundations, leadership, and mindset matter more than ever.

This is Part 1 of our mini-series on running a successful commission salon in 2025. Jump to Part 2 here | Jump to Part 3 here

Key Takeaways

Running a salon is first and foremost about business , not scissors or styling tools.
Leadership starts with you —owners must adapt, inspire, and stop blaming “lazy” generations.
Building a clear mission, vision, and set of values helps keep decisions aligned.
Discounts and promotions without a strategy destroy profit .
Marketing must tell your story and target the right people—not just rack up likes.

Quick Answer

To run a successful commission salon in 2025, owners must embrace business fundamentals—clear mission, vision, and values—while leading with a strong culture and effective marketing. Avoid discount traps, know your numbers, and remember: your leadership sets the tone.

Foundations First: Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission Statement: This defines your “why”—why your salon exists and who it serves. Without a clear mission, staff and clients won’t understand what your business stands for.

Vision Statement: Your vision paints a picture of the future. It shows staff where the business is heading, which helps them connect their personal goals to your salon’s growth.

Core Values: Core values are the guiding principles that underpin your business. They should be non-negotiables that guide decision-making, shape culture, and make it easier to say no when something doesn’t fit.

Leadership Starts at the Top

Stop blaming stylists: If your instinct is to complain that “new grads are lazy,” you’re missing the boat. Owners set the tone—staff only rise as high as the example they’re given.

Adapt to generations: Each new wave of stylists brings different expectations. Leaders who evolve their approach create loyalty; those who don’t lose talent.

Model growth: Leaders can’t expect staff to grow if they’re not doing it themselves. Reading leadership books, learning new systems, and innovating show staff that growth never stops.

The Danger of Discounts

Short-term fixes: Flash sales or 40% discounts may temporarily boost traffic, but they rarely attract loyal clients. Instead, they attract bargain hunters who leave once prices return to normal or once another salon runs a discount.

Profit erosion: Every discount eats directly into your margins. If you haven’t raised your prices in years, discounting compounds the damage, leaving you less able to pay staff well.

Sustainable strategy: Discounts make sense only when you’re doing something like clearing out old inventory or phasing out a service. Beyond that, they should never be your growth engine.

Marketing That Actually Works

Authenticity first: Your website, social media, and branding must reflect who you truly are. Polished photos without an authentic story behind them won’t convert clients. If your social media presence appears one way but your business operations are another, clients will become confused.

Target avatars: You can’t serve everyone. Define your ideal client avatar—age, income, lifestyle—and market directly to them. This focus ensures your budget works harder.

Measure ROI: Vanity metrics, such as likes and follows, don’t pay the bills. Track actual bookings and retention from your marketing to see if it’s working.

FAQs: Commission Salon Strategies Answered

Final Thoughts

Commission salons can absolutely thrive in 2025—but only if owners step into their role as business leaders. Build strong foundations, market with intention, and stop chasing discounts. Most importantly, lead by example.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

Continue the series: Read Part 2 | Read Part 3

"Last updated September 30, 2025"

Build a Salon That Lasts: Why Thinking Bigger Than “Just Hair” Matters

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 20:36:45 GMT

"Updated September 30, 2025"

Why salon owners should stop focusing only on pricing and logos—and start building a true brand and media presence.

Key Takeaways

Your salon is more than just hair—it’s a business and a brand .
Building with a media company mindset (podcast, email, blog) is the best way to market long-term.
Discounts and “deals” create short-term bumps but destroy long-term sustainability.
A strong brand helps with recruiting, retention, and client trust .
The question every salon owner must answer: What do you really want?

Quick Answer

If you want to build a salon that lasts, stop thinking small. Go beyond pricing debates and logo designs—start creating content, building a recognizable brand, and leading with a clear vision.

Why the Foundations Still Matter

Vision and mission: Your salon needs a direction bigger than “I cut hair.” Without this, every decision—from hiring to marketing—feels scattered and lacks focus.

Core values: These set the rules for how you and your team operate. They make decisions easier and prevent you from chasing short-term fixes.

A Team of professionals: Accountants, lawyers, and advisors aren’t optional. They’re the backbone of a strong foundation.

Beyond a Salon: Think Media Company

Content as leverage: Social posts alone won’t build your salon. Long-form, owned platforms—like podcasts, email lists, and blogs—give you direct access to your audience.

Why it works: Owned media doesn’t rely on algorithms. You consistently reach people on your terms, positioning yourself as an industry authority.

Recruitment tool: The more content you publish about your culture, education, and staff opportunities, the more stylists will come to you asking if you’re hiring.

The Problem With Short-Term Thinking

Discount traps: Offering 20% off just to drive traffic may boost sales for a week, but it kills margins and fails to create loyal clients.

Vanity metrics: Likes and follows don’t pay the bills. Real growth comes from trust, retention, and repeat clients.

Hamster wheel marketing: Constant deals force you into chasing quick wins instead of building a long-term strategy that compounds.

Future-Proofing Your Salon

Diversify revenue: Relying solely on haircut and color services is risky—one slow week or the departure of a single stylist can significantly impact your entire bottom line. Adding new revenue streams, such as memberships, branded products, or advanced education, creates stability. Even small additions, like offering paid styling tutorials or retail bundles, can compound over time.

Build authority: Authority means establishing yourself as the trusted voice in your space. When clients see you consistently publishing thoughtful content—whether through podcasts, blogs, or social media—they view you as an expert, not just another stylist. Authority inspires trust, which in turn translates directly into loyalty and referrals.

Attract the right clients: A salon with a clear brand and strong presence doesn’t have to “sell” itself. Instead, the right clients are naturally drawn in because they already know what you stand for. This reduces no-shows, increases retention, and gives you a client base that aligns with your culture and values.

FAQs: Building a Long-Term Salon Brand

Final Thoughts

Running a salon is more than just offering services—it’s about building a brand and establishing authority. If you want to attract clients, recruit staff, and secure your future, start thinking like a media company. Stop chasing discounts and start building trust, culture, and long-term stability.

Want more strategies like this? Subscribe to the 321 Pro Push! Newsletter from Hello Hair Pro for weekly insights to help you lead your salon with confidence.

For more details, listen to the full Hello Hair Pro Podcast episode below!

Prefer to read instead of listen? Download the full transcript here (PDF).

"Last updated September 30, 2025"

Pro Finish: Blowdry & Style Workshop

Wed, 14 May 2025 19:08:37 GMT

Are you ready to step up your finish work?

About This Event

This inspiring workshop will be led by Hello Hair Pro educators Lauren G. and Gianna T., who will show you how to take your styling game to the next level and feel more confident behind the chair.

Ready to level up your blowdry game?

This workshop is designed for stylists at every stage of their careers—from recent grads to seasoned pros—who want to sharpen their finish work and master the techniques that create long-lasting, high-impact styles.

Over three focused hours, you'll learn four foundational blowdry and style techniques:

Round brush set blowdry
Roller set blowdry
Pin curl set blowdry
Smooth finish blowdry with two sealing options

But this isn't just about technique—it's about understanding why and how to finish like a pro.

We'll cover:

Brush sizing and sectioning for each style
Rollers vs. point curls and when to use them
How to consult with the end result in mind
Setting, sealing, and product choices for hold and bounce
Creating smooth styles with internal shape and beveled ends

This class includes both live demos and hands-on practice using mannequins and models. You'll leave with practical techniques you can start using right away.

�� Swag Bag: All attendees will leave with a swag bag of evo products to take home.

�� What to Bring: Yourself, a notebook, and something to write with.

�� Class Size: Limited to just 12 attendees to keep it personal and impactful.

Hello Hair Pro: Updos!

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 20:43:36 GMT

Hair Pros: Want to crush this prom season?

Introducing Hello Hair Pro: Updos!

Join Hello Hair Pro Lauren Gagne at Hello Hair Co for a fun and interactive class on perfecting updos!

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event is for you.

Learn new techniques, get inspired by the latest trends, and connect with fellow hair pros.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your updo game! See you there!

Register Now!

Cocktail & Networking hour following the class 7 - 8:00 pm

Topics:

Consultation

Product recommendation

Hair prep

Selecting curling iron size

Bobby pins vs. Hair pins

Where to begin

What to do with short hair

Styles:

1/2 Updo

Textured Bun

Quick 10-Minute Slick Back Bun

Modern French Twist

Glam Waves

Have Questions ?

Tired of Frizz? Try Cezanne’s Safe and Effective Smoothing Treatments

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 21:55:20 GMT

The Benefits of a Formaldehyde-Free Smoothing Treatment

Are you interested in achieving smooth, frizz-free hair?

Beautifully smooth hair doesn’t have to mean exposing yourself to harsh chemicals.

Cezanne hair treatments offer a safe, effective way to improve manageability and enhance shine without using formaldehyde or other harmful ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for long-lasting results or a quick refresh, Cezanne has an option suited to your hair’s needs.

Cezanne Classic Keratin Smoothing Treatment

The Classic Keratin Smoothing Treatment is ideal for those seeking maximum frizz control and long-term smoothness.

This treatment strengthens hair with keratin and Sericin, a silk-derived protein that bonds with the hair’s natural keratin.

It smooths the cuticle, reducing porosity and increasing shine.

With proper care, the results can last up to five months, making the classic treatment the perfect choice for those who want extended manageability.

Here are the key benefits:

Long-lasting frizz control
Enhanced shine and smoothness
Safe for color-treated and chemically processed hair
Reduces blow-dry time

Cezanne Express Keratin Smoothing Treatment

Do you prefer smoother, more manageable hair in less time?

The Express Keratin Smoothing Treatment delivers results in a shorter application process.

This option provides similar benefits to the Classic Treatment but with a lighter formula and shorter processing time.

It’s perfect for clients who want to try a keratin treatment without the commitment or need a quick refresh between full treatments.

Results last up to ten weeks.

Here are the key benefits:

Faster application process
Lightweight formula for natural movement
Ideal for touch-ups between full treatments
Suitable for all hair types
Both treatments work without altering the hair’s natural curl pattern, making them a versatile option for clients with various textures.

Plus, because Cezanne treatments are completely formaldehyde-free, they offer a safer alternative for clients and stylists.

Cezanne is an excellent choice if you want smoother, healthier hair without the risks of traditional keratin treatments.

Book an appointment with one of our Hair Pros and discover the benefits firsthand.

Hair Thinning & Scalp Problems? Here’s How to Fix Them for Good

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 16:23:41 GMT

Stronger, thicker hair starts with the right scalp care—find out how Surface Awaken works.

Do you struggle with hair thinning, postpartum hair loss, or scalp issues like dandruff or psoriasis?

At Hello Hair Co, we understand how these concerns can impact your confidence and well-being.

That's why we're thrilled to introduce you to the Surface Awaken Therapeutic Line — a holistic, plant-powered solution to revitalize your hair and scalp.

Why Choose Surface Awaken?

Surface Awaken is scientifically designed to address your hair and scalp concerns using vegan, eco-friendly ingredients.

Here's how it can help with:

1. Thinning Hair and Alopecia

Many factors, including hormonal imbalances and stress, can cause hair thinning and alopecia. Surface Awaken products are formulated with natural DHT-blocking botanicals, such as saw palmetto and mint extracts, to promote healthier hair growth by stimulating the scalp and strengthening hair follicles.

2. Postpartum and Stress-Induced Hair Loss

Major life changes like childbirth or high-stress periods can lead to unexpected hair shedding. The Awaken line's detoxifying mineral ferments, antioxidants, and scalp-nourishing oils help support recovery and encourage thicker, more substantial hair growth.

3. Scalp Conditions: Dandruff, Psoriasis, and More

Surface Awaken's therapeutic formulas restore balance and soothe irritation. No one wants to deal with a flaky, itchy, or oily scalp. Gentle, sulfate-free cleansers and anti-inflammatory ingredients help relieve symptoms and maintain a healthy scalp.

Client Success Stories

Our clients have experienced remarkable transformations with Surface Awaken:

"My scalp feels so much better! I use the Scalp Detox at home."

"My hair is definitely thicker and fuller! "

Experience Surface Awaken at Hello Hair Co

We're proud to offer customized Surface Awaken treatments that deliver real results:

Awaken Scalp Facial Treatment

Our in-salon scalp facial deeply cleanses and invigorates your scalp to encourage hair growth. This relaxing service includes a stimulating massage using Awaken's therapeutic products to detoxify and nourish your scalp. Trust us, you're going to love it.

Personalized Home Care Plan

After your treatment, our hair pros will recommend a personalized regimen from the Surface Awaken line, including:

Awaken Shampoo & Conditioner: Clean and hydrate your scalp while promoting hair growth.

Awaken Elixir: A concentrated scalp treatment that boosts circulation and revitalizes hair follicles.

Awaken Styling Products: Lightweight solutions that enhance volume and support hair health.

Book Your Consultation Today

Take the first step toward healthier hair and a revitalized scalp. Contact us at Hello Hair Co to schedule your personalized consultation or learn more about Surface Awaken.

Let us help you achieve the hair health and confidence you deserve.

Why Wait?

Say goodbye to hair and scalp issues and hello to a thriving, healthy mane. Visit us at Hello Hair Co to experience the difference Surface Awaken can make for you.

Book a consultation with one of our hair pros today!

Solve Your Biggest Hair Problems Instantly with Top Drop

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 14:12:57 GMT

Do you struggle with frizz, damage, tone, or dryness?

Top Drop Treatments: The Ultimate Add-On for Gorgeous, Healthy Hair

Do you struggle with frizz? Want to add strength to brittle hair? Looking to combat yellow tones?

Look no further.

Give your hair an instant transformation!

Meet Top Drop , the in-salon treatment range from evo designed to deliver instant, effective, and customized results.

Whether you need intense hydration, repair for damage, toning for blonde, or a healthier scalp, Top Drop treatments have you covered.

Here's why Top Drop is a game-changer—and why you'll want to add it to your next appointment.

Here's why you'll love top drop!

1) Instant results, minimal time

2) Results that last up to 12 washes

3) Top Drop treatments are supercharged with ultra-concentrated formulas that work their magic in minutes. Your hair pro will spray it on, comb it through, and rinse—it's that simple. You'll walk out the door with healthier, more manageable hair that looks and feels fabulous without adding extra time to your salon visit.

4) Top Drop is customized to your needs.

5) Every client has different hair goals, and Top Drop has an answer for all of them:

Hydrate: For thirsty, dry strands.

Repair: Perfect for damaged hair in need of TLC.

Platinum Blonde: To keep blondes bright and brass-free.

Scalp: A deep-cleaning treatment for healthier hair at the root.

6) Top Drop promotes longer-lasting color.

7) If you invest in hair color, you'll love the fact that Top Drop helps preserve vibrancy and shine. It's like an insurance policy for your hair—and who doesn't want that?

8) Top Drop treatments were developed to be Eco-Friendly and Ethical.

9) Top Drop treatments are vegan, cruelty-free, and made with sustainability in mind. You can feel good knowing you're using products that are as kind to the planet as they are to your hair.

Ready to upgrade your next hair service?

Chat with one of our hair pros today!

Mastering Missed Opportunities

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:44:43 GMT

Seizing Missed Opportunities: How to Push Yourself and Your Team Forward

In business, particularly in the hair industry, we often talk about growth, skills, and success. But what about the opportunities we miss? The ones that, if recognized and acted upon, could lead to incredible personal and professional growth?

In episode 160 of our podcast, we discussed how easy it is to become complacent, especially when things seem to be running smoothly. But entrepreneurship is about constantly evolving. The key to long-term success is recognizing and acting on opportunities, even when it's uncomfortable, especially when it's uncomfortable.

The Value of Pushing Beyond Your Comfort Zone

It’s natural to settle into a routine, especially when you’ve been doing something for a while. But comfort can lead to stagnation. We recently saw this with a few members of our team who had become a little too comfortable with their routines. We decided to push them by introducing a new skill: hair extensions. The initial response? They were uncomfortable—to be expected—learning something new is difficult.

However, by the end of the class, they were excited about learning a new technique. The lesson here? Growth only happens outside of your comfort zone. It's easy to avoid challenges, but pushing through discomfort is where real progress happens.

Empowering Your Team: Passing the Torch

One of the most powerful moments in business is recognizing that leadership doesn’t always mean doing everything yourself. Prior to the hair extension class, our staff member Gianna expressed a desire to teach. Instead of Jen just leading the class, she decided to let Gianna take the reins. Watching Gianna grow into that role was a proud moment—not just for Jen, but for our team.

As a business owner, it’s important to recognize when it’s time to pass the torch. You can’t do it all, and that’s okay. By empowering others, you not only free yourself up for other opportunities but also help your team grow into new roles.

Why Overlooking Basic Services Can Be a Missed Opportunity

A common mistake we see in the hair industry is the focus on big-ticket, glamorous services like complex color corrections or extensions. While these services are great, don’t overlook the value of perfecting the basics. Clients often come to us not because of an elaborate transformation but because we offer consistent, high-quality services that fit into their busy lives.

We’ve had clients say they would pay whatever it costs just to avoid spending their entire day in the salon. Efficiency and attention to detail in basic services like haircuts and simple color treatments can build incredible loyalty. Don’t miss the opportunity to become the go-to expert for services clients need regularly. They may not be as flashy, but they are the backbone of a thriving business.

Learning When (and When Not) to Take on New Skills

Another theme we touched on in the podcast is knowing when it's time to learn a new skill—and when it’s better to hold off. It’s tempting to jump into every new trend, but if you’re not solid on your fundamentals, learning something advanced may actually hold you back. Focus on mastering the basics first, then build from there.

For example, we’ve had to tell newer team members to hold off on certain classes until they had honed their foundational skills. By taking this approach, we ensure that when they do tackle new techniques, they are fully prepared and confident in their abilities.

The Importance of Client Experience Beyond the Chair

A missed opportunity for many salons and barbershops is focusing too much on the service and not enough on the client experience. While doing great hair is important, it’s the overall experience that keeps clients coming back. The little details matter—the cleanliness of the salon, the atmosphere, and even how your team communicates with clients.

Your salon should be a place where clients feel valued and taken care of, from the moment they walk in until the moment they leave. Creating a welcoming environment, paying attention to decor, and even offering small gestures like a coffee or a smile can go a long way.

Continuous Growth and Learning: The Key to Avoiding Stagnation

If you’re not growing, you’re regressing. Complacency is the enemy of success. While it’s important to take breaks and avoid burnout, ongoing learning and development are critical. Whether it’s attending classes, reading industry materials, or networking with other professionals, continuous education keeps you ahead of the curve.

However, it’s just as important to recognize that growth doesn’t always mean learning a new technique. Sometimes, it’s about refining the skills you already have, improving client communication, or learning how to lead and inspire your team.

Seize Opportunities: Don’t Let Complacency Set In

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as an entrepreneur is allowing yourself to become too comfortable. Whether it’s missing out on improving basic services, not pushing yourself to learn new skills, or failing to empower your team, missed opportunities can hold you back.

In business, there’s always room to grow and improve. Keep looking for ways to challenge yourself and your team. Whether it’s through learning new skills, improving client experience, or simply being more strategic in how you approach your day-to-day operations, seizing these opportunities can take your business to the next level.

Ready to Take Your Business Further?

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about where to focus your energy, we’re here to help. Book a call with us to explore how you can grow your salon, strengthen your leadership skills, and avoid the common pitfalls that hold businesses back.

Communication & Accountability

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 14:02:37 GMT

How Communication and Accountability Can Transform Your Salon Business

Running a successful salon isn’t just about mastering your craft—it’s about leading your team, communicating effectively with clients, and holding everyone accountable.

In our latest podcast, we sit down with Marie Kieffer to discuss two key success pillars that salon owners often overlook: communication and accountability.

If you’re a hair professional or salon owner looking to elevate your business, it’s time to rethink how you approach these crucial elements.

Why Communication Is the Heartbeat of Your Salon

Effective communication is at the core of any thriving salon. Clear communication between you and your staff or with your clients ensures that expectations are met, services are delivered seamlessly, and trust is built.

As Marie shared, hairstylists are, by nature, communicators. Every interaction with a client is an opportunity to build trust by using your words, body language, and expertise to paint a vivid picture of the outcome they can expect.

But here’s the problem: many stylists are afraid of lengthy consultations. They rush through them, thinking speed will compensate for lack of depth, when the opposite is true. As salon owners, it’s essential to train your team to embrace consultations and take the time to listen, explain, and ensure clarity.

Tip: Try face-to-face consultations instead of talking through the mirror. This creates a stronger personal connection and encourages open communication.

Accountability: A Game Changer for Growth

Accountability often gets a bad rap because it can feel uncomfortable. But when accountability is part of your salon culture, it becomes a powerful tool for growth. Owning mistakes and addressing them head-on, as Marie illustrated in her example of correcting a rushed color service, can be uncomfortable in the short term but incredibly rewarding in the long term.

As a salon owner, holding yourself and your team accountable doesn’t mean being punitive—it’s about setting clear expectations, following through, and creating a culture where growth is encouraged through honest reflection.

Tip: Make accountability part of your daily routine. Encourage open discussions about what’s working and what isn’t, and create a safe space for your team to own their mistakes and learn from them.

Innovating Team Collaboration and Client Relationships

As we mentioned in the podcast, communication and accountability go hand in hand with team collaboration. Encourage your staff to think outside the box by fostering an environment where they feel comfortable sharing ideas and working together. This leads to innovative solutions, stronger client relationships, and a more motivated team.

For example, you can introduce weekly check-ins where your team shares what they’ve learned or new approaches they’ve tried in their services. This not only builds accountability but also strengthens collaboration, keeping the salon’s momentum moving forward.

Ready to Transform Your Salon?

If you’re ready to take your salon to the next level by strengthening your communication, accountability, and team dynamics, we’re here to help. Book an introductory call with us today to explore strategies to foster a transparent, efficient, and empowered salon environment.

Client Acquisition: Are You Solving the Right Problem?

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 18:15:32 GMT

Are You Solving the Right Problem in Your Salon Business?

As a salon owner or hair professional, one of the most common things you might hear (or even say) is, " I need more clients. "

But before you jump all in on client acquisition, it's essential to ask yourself: Are you solving the right problem?

We dove into this issue in episode 168 of the Hello Hair Pro podcast, Expert Tips on Client Acquisition .

So many salon owners focus on getting more clients, thinking it's the ultimate solution to their business struggles. But here's the truth: gaining more clients isn't always the answer—and, in fact, sometimes they can even create more problems if your foundation isn't solid.

Let's break down why.

The Importance of Pricing for Profit

One of the biggest mistakes in the salon industry is not pricing services for profit. If your pricing doesn't cover your costs and leave room for profit, bringing in more clients will only magnify your losses. More clients will mean more product use, time spent, and overhead. You're just spinning your wheels and working harder for less money without the correct pricing.

Take a look at your numbers:

-How much does it cost to open your doors every day?

-How much does each service cost in time, product, and overhead?

-Are you making a profit on each service, breaking even—or worse, losing money?

If you're unsure, revisit your pricing strategy before chasing after more clients. A well-structured pricing model will allow you to make more money with fewer clients, which is a far better situation than overloading your schedule at a discount.

Building a Client Avatar

Once you've nailed down your pricing, the next step is identifying your ideal client. Many salon owners fall into the trap of trying to appeal to everyone, which dilutes their message and limits their growth. Instead, focus on building a client avatar—a detailed profile of your ideal customer.

Ask yourself:

-Who lights you up when they sit in your chair?

-What are their needs, and how can you solve their problems?

-What kind of lifestyle do they lead?

For example, maybe your ideal client is a working professional who values time and needs efficient but high-quality service. By understanding your perfect client, you can create targeted marketing messages that speak directly to them. This will help attract clients who are not only a good fit but are also willing to pay for the value you provide.

Getting Involved in Your Local Community

One often overlooked strategy for salon growth is community involvement. Whether teaming up with local businesses, supporting local events, or simply getting to know other small business owners, your presence in the community can lead to valuable relationships and referrals. People are more likely to trust and support a business they feel connected to, and community engagement helps build that connection.

For example, a simple conversation with a local coffee shop owner could lead to cross-promotion opportunities or word-of-mouth referrals. Collaboration is a powerful tool for growing your client base and deepening your ties to the community.

Social Media Strategies that Work

Lastly, let's talk about social media. It's free, it's accessible, and it's where your clients are spending their time. But you're missing a massive opportunity if you're posting randomly and without a strategy. Use the insights from your client avatar to guide your social media content. Speak directly to the people you want to attract, solve their problems, and position yourself as the expert they can trust.

Here are a few tips:

Consistency is key: Post regularly (this doesn't necessarily mean daily) and engage with your audience.

Solve problems: Focus on educating your audience and addressing their pain points.

Show your work: Before-and-after photos are fine, but you should also explain the process and why your method stands out.

Leverage testimonials: Share client reviews and success stories to build trust and credibility.

Let's Solve the Right Problem Together

If you're unsure whether you're focusing on the right problem, we'd love to help. Whether it's fine-tuning your pricing, defining your ideal client, or crafting a social media strategy that works, we've been where you are and know what it takes to succeed in this industry.

Book an intro call with us today , and let's discuss your real business challenges so you can start building the thriving

salon you deserve.

Additional Content:

Maximizing Social Media

Ways to Increase Business

Attracting the Right Clients

Bad Reviews and Entrepreneurial Struggles

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 14:22:03 GMT

Bad Reviews and Entrepreneurial Struggles: It's All Part of the Journey

As business owners, we inevitably receive bad reviews or feedback. Whether it's a customer who didn't get exactly what they wanted or a misunderstanding, negative reviews happen. But guess what? It's not the end of the world. In fact, it's not necessarily a bad thing.

Recently, we received a one-star review at Hello. Admittedly, bad reviews are frustrating, but I don't view them as harmful to my business. We've never set out to be the hair place for everyone, so it isn't surprising when we're not. A bad review doesn't define you; it's not even a reflection of who you are; it's a reflection of the writer.

Understanding Bad Reviews

Remember, not every client is a good fit. A bad review says more about the person writing it than it could ever say about you. Reviews are just one of the challenges you'll face as a small business owner. Don't let them ruin a day, we don't. This doesn't mean that we don't care or that we don't take our clients seriously, we do. We also know what we bring to the table as owners and what our team can accomplish. To let an outlier take away from that would be an injustice to our team and us.

The Real Struggles of Entrepreneurship

Many people don't realize that being great at a craft—whether it's hair, fitness, or another passion—doesn't automatically mean you'll be great at running a business. These are completely different skill sets. The path of entrepreneurship is filled with challenges, from financial stress to long hours to the constant need for growth and innovation.

We've seen countless posts in online communities from salon owners and hairstylists saying they feel burnt out or defeated after just a few years in business. Many thought being busy behind the chair was enough to build a thriving salon. But the truth is, business ownership at any level of true success requires more than just technical skill. It demands strong systems, adaptability, and a grit.

Practical Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

If you're thinking about opening your own business, here are a few hard-earned lessons:

Commit to the Long Game: Building a successful business isn't a sprint—it's a marathon. You need to be prepared for constant adaptation and improvement because you're going to constantly be hit with problems. They can come monthly, weekly, or even several times in a day, understanding that solving problems is just part of the game will make life easier.

Develop Strong Systems: Having a solid operational foundation is critical. Without systems, you'll struggle to keep up with the demands of running a business. The last thing you want to be doing is solving problems you've already solved, you'll go crazy. Document and create systems as you go.

Embrace the Ups and Downs: One of the biggest misconceptions is that success is a straight line. In reality, it's filled with ups and downs. You're going to face setbacks—that's normal. How you handle them is what defines you. It's okay not to have the answers to every challenge, as long as you know where to find the answers.

Learn to Say No: This one is huge! You cannot say yes to everything, whether to a client, a supplier, or even a new idea. Knowing when to say no is crucial for your business's success. If you attempt to make everyone happy you will burn out or worse, self-sabotage your business. We simply don't have the bandwidth to do everything well.

If you need help navigating the world of entrepreneurship or feel stuck, we'd love to help. Book a call with us to discuss how you can strengthen your business and mindset. Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective to turn things around.

End-of-Year Strategies Unveiled

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 10:00:00 GMT

End-of-Year Strategies Unveiled

Salon Holiday Preparation: Marketing Strategies for a Successful Season

It's early September 2024 which means it's the perfect time to focus on end-of-year and salon holiday preparation. The holiday season can be invaluable for maximizing your salon's revenue and ensuring your business thrives.

Let's explore some salon marketing strategies to help you prepare for the holiday rush and finish the year strong.

The Importance of Planning for Salon Holiday Preparation

The holidays should never surprise you. They arrive on the exact dates every year. In episode 156 of our podcast, End-of-Year Strategies Unveiled, I joke about this fact. Strong holiday preparation starts with understanding your calendar and setting clear goals. Review your numbers from the previous year to set realistic targets for the remainder of 2024. This planning is critical to your salon's success during the holiday season.

Pre-Booking: A Key Salon Marketing Strategy

Pre-booking is one of the most effective salon marketing strategies, particularly during the holiday season. I'm sure you've heard plenty of marketers say, "The easiest person to sell to is the person who's already buying from you." And for good reason: It's true. You've already spent time earning their trust and being of service to them. Encourage clients to book appointments early, ensuring they get their desired time slots. Pre-booking secures your income and enhances the client experience by offering them peace of mind during a busy season.

There are many anti-prebooking people out there. You need to do what's best for your business, which, I'd argue, is typically taking care of your clients. Salons and barbershops are service businesses.

Holiday Retail Tips: Stock Up and Stay Profitable

Selling retail proudcts also provides an opportunity to boost your salon's revenue significantly during the holidays, but it's essential to approach it wisely. Focus your social media marketing to holiday tips to help your clients achieve their desired looks. Introduce your clients to the products that best help them. Constantly solve problems for clients, and you'll win.

In regard to holiday-specific items such as box sets, my suggestion is to only stock them if you're confident they will sell.

Salon Marketing Strategies: Be of Service to Your Clients

Effective salon marketing during the holidays isn't about flashy promotions; it's about solving problems for your clients. Whether you offer a unique blow-dry service for holiday events or promote beautifully packaged gift cards, your marketing efforts should focus on making your clients' lives easier. Remember, it's about them, not you.

Many salons default to discounting, a popular strategy. We don't believe in discounting. I keep bringing it up, but it bears repeating: Your clients aren't looking for discounts; they're looking for the best solution to their problems.

Self-Care and Team Appreciation: Essential Parts of Salon Holiday Preparation

Remember to incorporate self-care into your holiday preparation. The holiday season can be exhausting, so scheduling downtime for yourself and your team is critical. Consider organizing a small gathering with your staff to show appreciation and reflect on the year's successes. A well-rested and appreciated team will likely deliver outstanding service to your clients.

In Closing

By implementing these salon holiday preparation tips and marketing strategies, you'll survive the holiday rush and position your salon for a solid finish to 2024. Start planning now, stay focused on your goals, and remember that success is about consistency and care for your clients and yourself.

If you need more hands-on help, that's OK; reach out.

Maximizing Social Media

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:22:08 GMT

Want to attract the best clients?

Maximize Your Social Media

Social media offers a unique platform for hair pros to showcase their skills, attract new clients, and maintain relationships with existing ones. However, creating content that distinguishes you from the masses and resonates with your target audience is crucial.

Cater Content to Your Audience

Social Media is a powerful communication tool. But to take full advantage of it, you must first understand whose attention you are trying to capture. Knowing your audience plays a critical role in the type of content you create. Clarity about whom you're speaking to can result in a more personalized, efficient, and engaging interaction.

To start with, figure out your ideal client's typical personality, characteristics, and interests. This person could be 35-55 years old, a business owner, or a parent. Understanding these details about your audience will inform the topics you emphasize in your posts, the style of communication, and the types of visuals you use.

Art of Storytelling

Remember to create content that educates, inspires, and entertains when using platforms like Instagram. This not only captures the attention of your audience but also provokes engagement. Genuine engagement serves as a signal to social media algorithms and can increase your overall reach.

Every great hairstyling session is an opportunity for a captivating story that resonates with your audience. Let's take the example of your client, Sam. Showing the back of Sam's head doesn't tell a story. Instead, a reel or a picture capturing her reaction, happiness, and dazzling smile when she looks at the mirror pulls the audience into Sam's emotional journey. Sharing such experiences creates a sense of relatability and anticipation amongst potential clients.

Make it About Them, Not You

It's important to emphasize that your social media page is less about you and more about your clients. Clients want to see content that interests them, not just images of your work. A single brown heart emoji or an empty caption doesn't communicate anything substantial. Instead, create engaging captions that provide context, ask questions, and invite your audience to participate.

Leverage Your Style for Business Growth

Let your personality shine through your social media content. If you're known for your stylish outfits or ever-changing hair color, incorporate that into your social media posts. Customers often appreciate the personality behind the profession and seek connections beyond the services they require. These personal touches increase your brand's "human" aspect and can create a loyal customer base.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is vital not only in the quality but also in the frequency of your content. Plan your posts in advance and maintain a consistent posting schedule. With time, your audience will develop an expectancy and familiarity with your content patterns, deepening their engagement with your page.

Remember, you don't need to bend over backward trying to decode social media platform algorithms or spend money on boosting your posts. By focusing on what your clients and prospective clients want to see, you'll organically build a relevant and active social media presence, increasing your client base and, eventually, your income.

Social media is tool; use it strategically to create a buzz for your hair business!

Bigger ≠ Better

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 22:44:18 GMT

Expanding Your Business: Risks and Rewards

Expanding your business can be tempting for many salon owners.

But is it the right choice?

We're big on using BOTH sides of our minds, the creative side AND the logical side, for this exact reason.

It's tempting to expand based on emotion and assume everything will be ok. Although, taking a look at numbers, logistics, and reality tell a different story.

One thing is for sure; you must have a solid foundation, including systems in place, before expansion.

Otherwise, you could be in for some serious overwhelm and frustration.

This blog post will cover critical topics to consider when expanding your business, including franchising, multiple locations, and expanding your current location.

We've owned and operated businesses in a ton of different industries for an accumulated 25 years or so, with ties to the beauty industry for over 23.

Enough about us; let's dive in!

Franchising: A Unique Expansion Option

Franchising is a business model in which someone pays a royalty to use your business name, model, systems, etc.

While rare in the hair industry , it's still an option to consider if you want to expand.

The key to franchising is having well-established systems and processes in place and a strong brand that somebody can easily replicate.

Admittedly, I'm not well-versed in franchising. If you're interested in exploring the option further, seek out someone capable of helping you.

Multiple Locations: A Popular Expansion Choice

One of the most common ways to expand your salon business is by opening another location.

Multiple locations can help you reach a wider audience and increase your revenue, but it also comes with challenges.

For example, you'll need to hire, train, and manage additional staff, increase your marketing and advertising efforts, and manage the finances of multiple locations.

At this level, a management layer that's strong enough to run things in your absence isn't an option but a necessity.

These people must be well-versed in and buy into your company's mission, vision, and core values.

Expanding Your Current Location: A Lower-Risk Option

Another option for expanding your business is to grow within your current location.

This option might mean knocking down a wall, taking over another unit, or increasing your existing space's size in another creative way.

Expanding your current space can be a lower-risk option than opening multiple locations, but it still requires careful planning and execution to ensure success.

We strongly encourage the optimization of your current setup before expanding.

One example is rearranging your salon layout to create space for additional stations, etc.

Overcoming the Challenges of Expansion

Expanding your business is not without its challenges, including:

Perfecting your systems
Hiring, training, and managing staff
Increasing revenue to cover increased costs
Marketing and advertising
Financial management
Increased risk

It's crucial to keep in mind that bigger is only sometimes better.

In most cases, expanding too quickly can lead to out-of-control increased costs, decreased revenue, and a lack of focus on your core business.

Carefully and thoroughly work through a strategy and create a plan you can double and triple-check before making any moves.

The Importance of Customer Service

I've noticed a shift in the industry, or at least what's reflected on social media, that puts hair pros before the clients.

That mindset is a massive mistake, puts businesses at risk, and is reckless.

While I agree it's vital to have boundaries and take care of yourself, this is a service industry.

Based on what I'm seeing, I assume the mindset stems from ego.

I've worked for restaurants, gyms, delivery companies, etc., and when you put being of service at the top of your priority list, magic happens.

Building solid relationships with your customers is vital to retaining their business, and providing excellent customer service is the foundation of this relationship.

Some tips for delivering top-notch customer service include:

Building and nurturing relationships
Dealing with difficult or demanding customers effectively
Communicating clearly and effectively
Following up with customers to ensure their satisfaction
Measuring and tracking customer service metrics

In closing, expanding your business can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and consideration.

Make sure you have a solid foundation, consider your challenges, and prioritize customer service to ensure your business is booming.

Reach out to have a conversation and find out how we can help your salon business!

Salon Business Success: The Value of Perseverance

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 23:51:25 GMT

In episode 71 of the Hello Hair Pro podcast, we talk about common misconceptions about running a business.

Then we dive into the value of perseverance before rounding out the episode with some tips for success.

Jen has been doing hair for over twenty-three years and has accumulated some serious insight behind the scenes. She's worked as an employee, rented a chair, and then spent the last thirteen years building two salons.

I (Todd) have run and managed businesses, including a trucking company and several restaurants, before opening my own micro gym business, which I operated for ten years before joining Jen and building Hello Hair Co.

We've seen a lot and want to help others avoid and work through some of the mistakes we've encountered throughout the years.

Let's jump in!

Common misconceptions

The overnight success

One of the biggest misconceptions about business is the idea of overnight success.

When you first launch your salon or other business, getting caught up in the excitement and falling into the trap of thinking that success is just around the corner is easy.

Unfortunately, the reality is that most businesses don't make it past year one.

The ones that do make it learn that it takes time and hard work to build a successful salon business.

Get rich quick

Another misconception is the idea of "get rich quick."

Starting a business is not a quick way to make money.

It takes time, effort, and dedication to build a profitable business.

You should maintain realistic expectations about the time and money it will take to get your business up and running.

It's low risk

Owning a business being low risk is another misconception.

Starting a business is a high-risk venture, and it's important to understand that there are no guarantees.

You need to be prepared for the possibility of failure and have a plan in place in case things don't go as expected.

There's no need for business education and experience

Another misconception is that you don't need any education or experience to start a business.

While it's true that you don't need a formal education to start a business, it's essential to have the knowledge, experience, and an understanding of how companies operate.

This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of success.

Too often, we see people dive in head first with little to no planning, only to be stopped hard in their tracks.

Everyone can be an entrepreneur

Not everyone can be a successful entrepreneur.

Starting a business is not for everyone and requires specific skills and characteristics.

It's important to be honest with yourself about whether or not you have what it takes to be an entrepreneur.

If you don't naturally possess the qualities needed, you'll have to take the time to develop them.

Perseverance

The importance of perseverance

It's important to understand that there are no guarantees of success.

Most people will close their businesses within their first year of operation.

Perseverance is crucial for any entrepreneur hoping to avoid adding to failure rate statistics.

Overcoming obstacles

There will be many obstacles along the way.

Some of those obstacles you'll expect, but many will come as a surprise and throw you off your game.

You'll want a strong sense of perseverance to overcome these obstructions and keep pushing forward.

Without perseverance, it's easy to give up when things get tough, which can be the difference between success and failure.

Long term vision

Perseverance also allows you to adopt a long-term mindset.

Business is not a short-term venture; it takes time and effort to build a successful business.

A long-term mindset lets you see the bigger picture and focus on the end goal rather than getting caught up in short-term setbacks.

Resilience

Perseverance also helps you to become more resilient.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from failure and keep moving forward.

It's important to understand that failure is a part of the process and is not the end of the road.

Perseverance allows you to learn from your failures and use that knowledge to make better decisions in the future.

Adapting to change

Perseverance also helps you to adapt to change.

The business landscape is constantly changing, and it's crucial to pivot and adapt to new circumstances.

Perseverance allows you to stay focused on your goals, even when the path to success is unclear.

You must be flexible and open to new ideas and changes.

Without perseverance, it's easy to give up when things get tough.

Keep pushing forward, and don't give up on your dreams.

Tips for becoming successful

As a hair professional, you know that success in the industry takes more than just a passion for hair.

This is especially true regarding opening and running a salon business.

Here are some thoughts for success as a hair professional:

Develop a strong business plan

Firstly, you must develop a strong business plan.

This means defining your target market, services, and pricing and setting clear goals and strategies for achieving success.

A strong business plan can help you stay focused and on track as you grow your business.

Your business plan guides your decision-making and how you steer the company.

Networking

Networking is also an essential aspect of success in the hair industry.

Building relationships with other hair professionals, salon owners, and industry influencers can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable advice and support.

There's nothing wrong with starting the conversation on social media, but creating relationships in the real world trumps all.

Seek out mentorship

Seeking out mentorship can also be a valuable asset on your journey to success.

A mentor can guide, advise, and support you as you navigate the challenges of starting and growing your business.

Friends, family, and colleagues are ok, but the overwhelming majority of successful business owners will pay for mentorship because they understand the value and the return on investment.

Continuously learn

Like the technical aspects of doing hair, continuously educating yourself is also a key component of success in the business world.

Stay informed about the latest trends, tools, and developments in business to stay competitive.

Flexibility and adaptiveness

Being flexible and adaptive is crucial.

The salon industry is constantly evolving, and it's important to pivot and adapt to new circumstances.

Your success is independent of others

It's paramount to recognize that your success is independent of others.

Refrain from comparing yourself to other owners, focus on your goals, and stay true to your vision.

The success of the salon across the street will not impact your ability to succeed.

Closing thoughts

In conclusion, success in the hair industry takes more than just a passion for hair; it takes a well-rounded approach.

Develop a strong business plan, network, seek out mentorship, continuously learn, be flexible and adaptive, stay organized, and recognize that your success is independent of others.

With the right mindset, perseverance, and action, you can achieve success as a salon owner.

Book a call to learn more about how we can help guide you along your journey of salon ownership!

Revitalize Your Salon Business for the New Year

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:22:38 GMT

It's a new calendar year; now what?

One of the most valuable things you could do to improve your situation, whether you're looking at personal or professional goals, is to take action.

Objects in motion stay in motion, so DO SOMETHING, anything.

New Year Goals

Personal Goals

What would you like to accomplish outside of work this year?

What does your time outside of work look like?

Do your goals include spending more time with family and friends? Would you like to spend more time on vacation? Do you want to explore new hobbies?

It's good to think about and consider these things as we head into a new calendar year because if you don't, it's easy to slip into doing things the same old way.

Try this: Spend some time building your perfect day. Write down everything you do (when you're not at work).

Business goals

Take a good look at your foundation. Mission, vision, core values.

Are you living those?

Is your team living those if you're a salon owner or leader?

You didn't take the time to create a vision to sit there; you've made these things to guide you.

Financial goals

Your finances are what allow you to operate a business. You should work to understand your business's finances, and by doing so, you'll be able to identify growth opportunities.

What financial goals do you have for your business?
Did you reach your monetary goals in 2022?
What adjustments can you make?

Staffing

Your staff is your support. Without a team, you won't get very far. Even if you work for yourself as an independent stylist, you'll surround yourself with a support team that includes your lawyer, accountant, and mentors.

What does your team need to succeed?
How can you leverage your time to get the most out of working with your team?
Is it time to expand or downsize your team?

Systems

Systems are paramount to any business that expects to thrive. From opening and closing checklists to emergency procedures, having solid systems in place sets you and those around you up for success.

Systems provide value to your business if you choose to sell someday.
If you encounter a repeat challenge, you likely need a system in that area.
Systems allow you to avoid micromanaging.

Educational

Your educational goals will keep you up to date in the industry. From trends to maintaining the fundamentals, education is always a good idea. There are countless in-person and remote options for continuing education. Beware, not all classes are created equal, and not all educators are great at delivering knowledge.

What new techniques, styles, etc., are you interested in learning?
Do you have information that would benefit others? I.e., Are you interested in educating others?
Is there something that you or your team could improve?

Marketing

Marketing is overlooked or misunderstood in the hair industry. You will eventually encounter issues if you're not constantly bringing new clients into your business. I'm always confused when I see 'not accepting new clients' on a hair pros profile. By not taking new clients, you're creating a ceiling for your earning potential.

What services are a specialty of yours? What services do you want to do?
Who do you want to serve? What does your perfect client look like?
Where can you reach your ideal clients? Where do they spend their time? E.g., online, coffee shops, gyms, etc.
How can you stand out?

Culture

The culture that exists in your salon business is vital. Culture will either attract clients and employees or turn them away. Your culture must be authentic and genuine. It'll be challenging to fake culture because your words don't carry weight for long if your actions aren't matching them.

Have you defined your company culture?
Are there positive changes you can make to your business to improve your culture?
Do your employees understand and buy into your culture?

Sale of business

The sale of your salon may be something you spend little to no time thinking about. You may think, "I'd never sell my salon!" But, you'll effectively build a much stronger company by thinking about the various aspects required to sell a business. Things like furniture and equipment have little to no value in a sale. Other entrepreneurs are interested in purchasing systems, marketing strategies , strong financials, and other tangible items.

If someone was interested in buying your business, what would they receive?
Do you understand the valuation of a company?
What is your exit strategy if you're not considering selling your business?

Closing

Take on the new year with new thoughts and approaches toward your business.

Run through some thought experiments to open your mind to new ideas.

Even if you feel your salon business is running perfectly, there's always something that you could improve.

If your goals include optimizing your business, create a strategy, write a plan, and execute one day at a time.

Your effort will compound over time, and you'll be surprised by the progress you make in 2023.

Book a call with Hello Hair Pro if you'd like to learn more about how we can help organize your thoughts and take your salon business to the next level.

The Secret to Thriving as a Salon Owner: Embrace the 'Negative'

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 14:11:57 GMT

Salon owners (or any small business owner) can expect to face many challenges.

Most people view certain events or challenges as negative, but I don't see things that way.

The events that happen to us are just that, events.

Instead, it's our responsibility to expect and prepare for as much as possible.

Of course, we all encounter situations that completely destroy any plan we have in place. That doesn't mean we don't prepare.

Everyone can agree that certain aspects of doing business carry risks.

In this article, we'll cover some of them.

In episode 69 of our podcast, we covered a handful of challenges:

Financial risk
Time commitment
Stress & Pressure
Maintaining cash flow
Competition
Regulation & Compliance
Hiring & Managing people

The trick to overcoming challenges and thriving as a salon owner is to switch up your view. The 'secret' is fairly simple; embrace the negative aspects of owning a business by understanding the problems that all businesses must address. It's not always easy, but by understanding common problems you'll be able to create a plan (system). Couple your plan with the ability to pivot and you'll find yourself light years ahead of the pack.

Let's jump in!

Challenges

Financial risk

As a salon owner, it's critical to be aware of the financial risks involved in opening and running a hair salon.

One significant risk is the upfront cost of starting a business, including rent, equipment, and supplies.

These costs can add up quickly, and it's necessary to have a solid financial plan in place to ensure that you have the resources to cover them. Additionally, there is always the risk that the salon may not be as successful as you hoped, which can lead to financial losses.

Also, consider the possibility that your salon may not generate enough income to cover your expenses, and you must have a plan to deal with this situation. Your plan may involve seeking financial assistance through loans or grants or finding ways to cut costs.

By being aware of the financial risks involved in owning a salon, you can take steps to minimize them and ensure the long-term success of your business.

Time commitment

Owning a hair salon is a huge time commitment.

As the owner, you are responsible for managing all aspects of the business, which can involve long hours and a lot of hard work.

You may find yourself working early in the morning to get the salon ready for the day and staying late in the evening to close up shop and finish any paperwork.

You'll also need to be available to deal with any unexpected issues that may come up, such as equipment malfunctions or staff emergencies.

In addition to the time you spend working in the salon, you'll also need to set aside time for tasks such as marketing and advertising, financial management, and continuing education.

It's important to be prepared for the time commitment involved in owning a hair salon and to make sure that you have a strong support system to help you manage your workload.

Stress & Pressure

It's important to be aware of the stress and pressure that comes with the job.

Running a business is never easy, and there will be times when you feel overwhelmed and stressed out. You may even consider giving up.

You'll be responsible for managing every aspect of the salon, including hiring and training staff, marketing and advertising your services, and dealing with any unexpected challenges.

You'll also need to balance the demands of the business with your personal life, which can be a challenge.

You'll want to find ways to manage stress and pressure, such as setting boundaries, delegating tasks when possible, and making time for self-care and relaxation.

It can also be helpful to have a support system in place, such as a mentor or a group of other salon owners who can offer guidance and encouragement.

By being aware of the stress and pressure involved in owning a salon, you can take steps to manage it and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Maintaining cash flow

Maintaining cash flow is crucial for the success of any business, and this is especially true for salon owners.

Cash flow refers to the movement of money in and out of the business, and it's important to have a steady stream of income coming in to cover expenses and generate profits.

A salon with poor cash flow will struggle to pay its bills, meet payroll, and invest in necessary resources, leading to financial instability and even the failure of the business.

To maintain cash flow, salon owners should focus on generating consistent revenue, managing expenses carefully, and being strategic in their financial planning.

A plan may involve:

Offering promotions and incentives to attract new clients.
Finding ways to cut costs.
Seeking out new funding sources if needed.

By paying attention to cash flow and taking proactive steps to manage it, salon owners can increase the chances of success for their businesses.

Competition

Staying competitive in a crowded market is a common challenge that salon owners face.

With so many options available to consumers, attracting and retaining loyal clients can be challenging.

One way that salon owners can differentiate themselves from their competitors is by offering unique and specialized services. For example, a salon that specializes in a particular type of hair styling or makeup application may be more likely to stand out in a crowded market.

It's also crucial for salon owners to keep up with changing trends and demands in the industry.

Staying relevant could involve:

Investing in marketing and advertising campaigns.
Updating their websites and social media platforms.
Offering new services that meet the needs of their clients.

Salon owners should also strive to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere for their clients, as this can help set them apart from their competition.

Salon owners can stay competitive in a crowded market by staying up-to-date with industry trends and continuously evolving their businesses.

Regulation & Compliance

As a salon owner, knowing the regulations and compliance requirements that apply to your business is crucial. These will vary depending on your location and may include licensing, permit requirements, and health and safety regulations.

If you fail to comply with these regulations, you may face fines, legal penalties, and damage to your reputation. To ensure that your salon is in compliance, it is essential to stay informed about the relevant regulations and requirements and to take steps to meet them. This may involve seeking the guidance of a lawyer or accountant, attending industry events, and keeping up with any changes to the regulations.

By taking the time to understand and meet your compliance obligations, you can safeguard your business and avoid any potential legal issues.

Hiring & Managing people

Hiring and managing staff can be a challenge for salon owners.

Finding the right balance of talent and personality is critical.

However, dealing with employees with different work ethics and goals may take a lot of work.

To foster a positive work environment, salon owners should clearly communicate their expectations, provide ongoing training and development opportunities, and recognize and reward their employees for their hard work.

Managing staff can also be time-consuming, as it involves tasks such as scheduling, payroll, and performance evaluations.

Salon owners need to find ways to streamline these processes and delegate tasks when possible to minimize the workload.

By effectively managing their staff, salon owners can create a positive and supportive work environment that leads to success for both the business and its employees.

Closing

We hope that you found this article helpful. Our goal , as always, is to inspire and provide different ways for you to see your business.

Whether you're a salon owner, work for yourself, or an employee of a salon, having a solid understanding of our industry will always help you be more successful.

If you're interested in chatting with us, reach out!

We'd love to talk,

-Todd

Uncovering the Desires of the Modern Hair Professional

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 19:24:40 GMT

The state of the modern salon industry is a topic of much discussion and debate.

What gives?!

In the Hello Hair Pro podcast episode 68 we decided to question a few things.

From sign-on bonuses and employee retention issues to salon-hopping hair professionals and owners stuck in outdated practices, it's clear that something is amiss.

So, what exactly is everyone looking for, and how can businesses better meet the needs of their employees and clients?

What do modern hair pros REALLY want?

Opportunity

One key element people seek is a clear path to opportunities and growth within their profession. This means having a clear plan in place for career advancement and being provided the tools and support needed to succeed.

Flexibility

Flexibility is also an emphasis, with scheduling flexibility being a particularly coveted trait. No one wants to feel like they're stuck in a rigid, inflexible work environment.

Belonging

In addition to these practical considerations, people also look for a sense of belonging and community within their work environment. This includes working alongside strong, talented colleagues, having structure and goals in place, and feeling a sense of purpose and meaning in their work.

The owner's role

But it's not just employees who have a role to play in creating a fulfilling and successful salon experience.

Guidance & True Leadership

Owners and leaders are also responsible for providing guidance, leadership, and support to their teams. This means actively working on leadership skills, following through on promises and commitments, and making the necessary changes and updates to keep the business running smoothly.

Closing Thoughts

So, what's the solution to these challenges facing the salon industry?

It starts with self-reflection and the willingness to have tough conversations and make changes. You must be willing to work on yourself if you hope to change others.

As an owner, it's important to regularly reevaluate your goals and priorities and make any necessary adjustments.

As an employee, it's crucial to communicate your needs and desires to your employer and work towards finding a work environment that truly meets your needs.

By addressing these issues head-on, we can create a stronger, more successful salon industry for all involved.

If you'd like to chat feel free to reach out.

-Todd

Perspective, Evolution, and Some Math

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 14:45:19 GMT

Perspective, Evolution, and Some Math!

We cover multiple topics in this week's episode!

Perspective & Evolution

Changing how you view scenarios is the easiest way to shift a mindset.
It's work, it's putting in the reps, it's not easy, but it is simple, and you CAN do it!
Instead of thinking don’t fail, you should think win.
Perspective is a really big piece of the puzzle. Be optimistic.
Eventually, what got you to where you are won’t be enough to progress.
The team that takes you from 1 to 10 won’t be the team that takes you from 10 to 100.
Most people won’t succeed because they’re not willing to stop doing the thing that got them to where they are...when it’s no longer the thing.
Where do you want to be, and what does it TRULY take to get there?
Nothing will change if you just keep pushing down a path that isn't working because of some confirmation bias.

Time to math!

Step one is to keep an open mind.
Step two is to decide what metrics we'll measure and have a defined method for doing so. Basically, you need a "why"
This industry MUST stop looking at challenges with a short-sighted view.
We also have to look at what we DO have and forget about what we DON'T have!
Let's look at the lifetime value of a client.
We're going to work in terms of how we price at our salon ; if you price differently, that's cool; you'll still get the point.
We'll use a fake hair pro that charges $100/hour and name him Benjamin.
Benjamin's average appointment is 2 hours
His average client comes in every 6 weeks
Benjamin's average client is with him for a duration of 5 years
$100x2= $200.
Take a year, 52 weeks, and divide by 6 weeks; we get 8.6 visits per year.
Now we take those 8.6 visits and multiply them by 200 because that's how much Benjamin makes each visit.
We get $1720 per year.
OK, now this is where things get fun.
Let's conservatively increase Benjamin's rate by $10/hour per year
This means year 1 is $1720 per client
Year 2 goes up to $1892
Year 3 is $2065
Year 4 is $2236
Year 5 is $2408
If we add those numbers up, we get $10,320 lifetime value of the client
Now, instead of looking at a client as $200, if Benjamin is able to look at each client as $10K what do you think happens?
He steps up his game, for starters!
He is willing to invest in himself.
OK, so now ask yourself, and be honest!
What sets you apart from the other hair pros in your town?
Treat people kindly

Our (weekly) Email List

pingpong design and marketing

What is Marketing?

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 17:44:18 GMT

"A BIG SCARY WORD"

For many people I've spoken with, marketing is either swept under the rug or misunderstood. It becomes a big scary word, but it doesn't need to be.

Look, I've been there!

I admit I used to have no idea how to market a business. So I get it!

My goal today is to keep things simple here; let's jump right in.

Marketing is informing the public that you exist and gaining enough trust for them to do business with you.

We want people to know, like, and trust you.

Before moving on, I think it's important to point out what marketing is not and an example of a poor strategy.

Marketing is not your logo or business name. It's not your colors or your slogan.

The above are branding; while you need them, they're not enough to grow a successful business.

An example of a poor marketing strategy would be walking through a public area blindly handing out business cards.

Might that work? Maybe, but odds are it won't because those days are gone. Also, you'd be wasting a lot of time that you'd be better off spending elsewhere.

In today's world, people are constantly being bombarded with ads and information. Handing a random person a card is just another example of that.

Here's the trick.

You have to stand out , and you have to target .

To stand out, you have to be different. You have to catch people's attention. What do you offer that's different from local businesses in your niche? What separates you from the local competition?

I'll link some articles below that go into more detail.

To target, you have to create a client avatar or persona. It doesn't matter what you call it; what matters is that you do it.

You have to identify your ideal clients when creating marketing material, social media content, etc., so you can speak directly to that person.

Back in the day, just showing up on social media might have worked because the platforms weren't saturated. Today, everyone is on social media, and your message becomes clouded.

By thinking about what you want to do with your business, who you'd love to serve, and where they are, you could see some pretty impressive results!

Check out the articles below for more, and as always, reach out if you want to chat .

-Todd

If you want more, these articles are on this website:

" Don't be for Everyone "

" Attracting the Right Clients "

If you want even more info, I've written articles for another site that you can find here:

" Marketing for Free "

" Building Trust with the Public "

" 7 New Ideas to Try in Your Marketing "

" Creating Brand Awareness "

" Leveraging Social Media "

" Content Marketing: How to get Started "

Shifting Your Mindset

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 09:00:00 GMT

" Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all. " ~Dale Carnegie

Jen & Todd chat about different mindsets, common issues found in the hair world, and how to make a shift in your attitude.

We kick off by defining and understanding where your mindset currently sits. Even if you're toward the 'negative' side, it's OK! You know where you're starting and what direction to head.

Different Mindsets:

Growth vs. Fixed

Abundance vs. Scarcity

Learner vs. Judger, or as Jen put it, " The Judgy McJudgers! "

Some common issues people have:

Failure to innovate, fear of change
Fixating on what they don't have
Knocking others, thinking their method is the only way
Believing everything they see or hear
Believing they're owed something
Expecting rewards for things they haven't done
Thinking the grass is greener, putting more effort into wishing than working on themselves.

What can we do about it?

Here are some things to consider if you're ready to make a shift in your mindset:

Define and understand who you are, where your attitude sits, and be cool with it, or none of this works
Make it a priority. This needs to be a conscious effort
Take daily action
Have a plan that might include a note, a written list, or a habit "Energy goes where the focus flows!"
See the positive
Engage more. Try to discover and explore.
Listen more
Feel the feels
Pause
Find an outlet
Find a mentor or someone with whom you can have real, honest, productive conversations.
Meditate

Reach out to schedule a chat if you need help!

Some Business Do's and Don'ts

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 17:30:47 GMT

" Don't sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them. " ~Madam C.J. Walker

In this week's episode of the Hello Hair Pro podcast, Jen and Todd run through a list of some do's and don't of business.

To be successful, you need a plan. If you don't have one, you will run into trouble, eventually.

Here's a look at some of the topics they covered and a brief breakdown of each.

Do's

Start with a mission, vision, and core values.

The foundation is where everything begins. Without a strong foundation, there's no way to ensure the success of your business. You may get lucky for a while, but eventually, that luck will run out, and issues will be far more challenging to address.

Your mission tells the world why your company or brand exists.

Your vision explains where your company intends to be in the future.

Your core values dictate how your business will operate and make decisions.

Create and set up your accounts.

Once you understand how the company will operate, you'll need to establish basic accounts and relationships.

Meet with the small business advisor at your bank. You can establish a relationship with them, gain insight, and discover potential beneficial programs.

Know your strategic differences.

What makes you different?

How will you stand out?

The trick is not to focus on being better than other businesses; it's to be as different as possible.

Have a plan for everything.

Creating plans and strategies is part of the game.

Your plans will occasionally work but, more often than not, will require the ability to pivot.

Planning for everything is practice for when you need to maneuver quickly.

Research.

Before you can market, you'll need to figure out the perfect customers for your business.

Look at these areas: demographics, psychographics, geographics, and behavioral segments.

You'll be able to create avatars for your marketing efforts from these areas.

Build strategies.

A strategy is your formal plan. It takes your to-do lists and guides you on how to execute them. A good strategy will provide direction, time-frames, and details about how and why your plan will work.

Build systems.

Systems are critical to a company and its growth.

Document everything in as much detail as it takes. You're looking to assign responsibilities to others while setting them up for success.

I couldn't tell you how many times I've seen an owner or manager of a business get frustrated with employees because of a lack of systems.

Without telling them and providing guidance and structure, you cannot expect people to know what you want to happen.

Build a team.

A strong team with strong leadership is essential for growing a company.

Find people who believe in your business's values and can help you take it to the next level.

Keep in mind the team that takes you from 1 to 10 likely won't be the team that takes you from 10 to 100.

Dream and think BIG.

Building a business is a lot of work. It requires your patience, resiliency, and your most valuable resource, time.

If you're already spending your time, you may as well spend it on something big.

"The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it." ~Michelangelo

Have a lawyer, an accountant, and a mentor.

Establishing a relationship with a lawyer before you need one is something everyone should do. Your lawyer will look over contracts and leases and provide peace of mind.

A good accountant is invaluable and provides so much more than doing your books and taxes. From helping you streamline, understanding your numbers, scaling, and keeping you focused on your goals.

A mentor is another piece of the success puzzle. The position doesn't need to be paid; maybe you have someone in your life who has been through building a business who can help you. The important part is that they understand your goals and can help guide you.

Don'ts

Start with a name and logo.

We see many people launch a business without doing much more than creating a logo and coming up with a name. Often without putting much effort into researching.

A logo is fun, but it's not that important that you should start with it.

Avoid dealing with problems.

Don't put things off. It would be best if you dealt with challenges promptly.

Putting things off will inevitably allow problems to stack up, which is not where you want to be.

Be seduced by a location.

We've seen people put a business in a location simply because they fell in love. When you fall in love, you do silly things, like overspending on square footage.

Don't fall into that trap.

Have an outside person help you. This person must be honest with you and understand business and math.

Overpaying can destroy any chance of profitability.

Think competition is bad.

Avoiding competition is common in the hair industry.

We see it in the form of non-competes for employees. We also see it as negotiating leases to block other salons from opening in the same plaza or building.

Competition is good. It drives innovation and lifts all of us.

Fear of competition comes from a scarcity mindset. Many believe that if one business does well, another must struggle. That assumption isn't valid.

Ignore or hide from criticism.

You will be criticized. Much of it will be untrue and out of context.

Haters hate. Let them.

I was once told by an old friend, "Once you plant your flag, it won't be long before someone starts attacking."

On the flip side, there will be valid criticisms, unhappy customers, and mistakes from time to time. That's OK.

Don't hide from online reviews and unhappy people. Instead, use it to connect with people and learn more about how you can better serve them.

Remember, this post isn't comprehensive. We dive much deeper in the podcast episode.

If you're interested in chatting with Jen & Todd about your business, reach out and set up an intro call.

Ways to Increase Business

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 15:41:52 GMT

Most people would like to make more money

Whether you own a business or you're an employee, you're probably curious about how to make that happen.

Maybe you've tried a few things that seemed to work for someone else. Perhaps you're stuck, paralyzed, and overwhelmed.

Today we're going to tackle a few things that will help.

I want to start by identifying what people do and don't want.

The "best" is not something people want. So often, hair pros think, "If I just take one more class, I'll be better and more people will come to me!" But that's not what people truly look for when choosing where to get their hair done.

Besides, "best" is subjective.

Think about your dream car. The best, right? Now, look outside. Why isn't everyone driving that car?

First, because not everyone agrees they're the best, and second, a single car manufacturer can't provide cars for everyone.

Same with hair.

Another thing people aren't looking for is discounts. At least not in the way that will help your business grow.

I tried to run a deal through a local advertiser when I owned my gym. They promoted businesses at deep discounts and kept a percentage. The approach was they get people in, and it's my responsibility to keep them.

In the first month, I had around 20 new people show up.

You might think, "Wow, that's amazing!" but it wasn't.

The type of person attracted to my gym through this was a coupon chaser, not my ideal avatar.

So when the next deal popped up at the next gym a town over, everyone who was into chasing deals left.

Not only that, but I had disrupted my loyal clients by taking time away from them to work with new people. People who weren't even staying with us.

It was a good lesson.

So what do people want?

For starters, they want consistency . Consistency will allow them to relax. Coming into a new salon is stressful. People aren't quite sure what to expect, and that creates uneasiness. When you deliver consistency, you remove that.

People are also after a solution to a problem.

"My hair is getting too long."

"My hair is fine, and I wish it were fuller."

"I wish my hair was a different color."

These are all problems people have that require a solution. Be their guide and solve their problems.

People also turn to businesses for the emotion that they offer.

Confidence, happiness, pride, and excitement are all emotions that people may be looking to experience. Provide those.

Simple is another thing people want. We live in a world that celebrates busyness. It's easy to become frustrated when things begin to pile up. Make life easier for others, and they'll appreciate it.

A quick example is online booking. One, have it and two, make sure it's SIMPLE for people to use.

And now, let's dive into some thoughts on increasing business.

Know your numbers.

The very first step is to know your numbers and know them well. You must know what it costs you to run your business. This one isn't negotiable.

The next step is your ability to focus and your mindset .

If you're not willing to focus and put in an honest effort, no advice will help.

Equally important is your mindset needs to be positive. If all you can focus on is the negative and what might not have worked, you won't make progress.

Pricing.

Most hair pros aren't charging correctly. I know because the average profit for salons is ridiculously low. Profit needs to be accounted for in the pricing, and it's often not. If it were accounted for, more salons would be profitable.

This example goes back to knowing your numbers. I know you're creative, and math isn't your thing. The problem is then neither is business. Effectively running a business requires both sides of your brain.

Current clients.

Another way to increase business is to focus on your current clients. Check out a book called The Pumpkin Plan; I'll add a link below.

You'll focus on creating the best experience possible for your best clients. Then work on attracting more of those types of clients.

Marketing.

You should learn the basics of marketing. You need people to know, like, and trust you. There are many different ways to achieve each, and I've already broken them down in many places. Check out some past blogs and podcast episodes for the details.

Follow up.

How often are you following up with clients?

There is so much valuable information that you can gain simply by reaching out and asking. People want to help. Let them.

What are you doing well? What areas could you improve?

Be open to honest feedback!

Reduce costs.

While reducing costs isn't increasing business, I wanted to include it because keeping an eye on money going out is essential.

Do you have a bunch of redos? You need to figure out why.

Do you have a subscription to something that doesn't provide the expected ROI? Consider trying something else.

Other things you could think about are hosting events or creating education.

Hopefully, this article helped you to take a different look at how to increase business.

Many people use the "If I build it, they will come." plan. That may work for a time. But it will never optimize your business.

Don't guess.

Create a plan and then a strategy for implementation.

Try things, measure, and assess.

Reevaluate.

If you're interested in getting our weekly emails, you can get on our list here!

The Pumpkin Plan

Creating Opportunities

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 14:08:31 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Jen and Todd talk about creating opportunities for yourself and/or your team.

Everything begins with focus .

What does an honest effort look like? Is it working on something with focus for 6, 12, 18, or 24 months? Are you giving up too soon?

Creating opportunity requires action.

Write out your medium and long-term goals.

How to create effective, measurable, goals.

Forming relationships in advance.

Building good relationships will drive opportunities.

Falling off is OK! Having a bad day, week, month, or even year is something you can overcome when considering the total amount of time some goals will take to reach.

Turning a bad day or year into a positive.

Always be thinking about what's next.

Jen shares an experience from Hello Hair Co about taking a day to yourself.

You're a human being. It's OK to experience a range of emotions.

Focus on your goals and what actually matters.

Go out into the real world and let people know you exist.

The application of knowledge vs. accumulation of knowledge.

Todd shares a story about the gym world and how he mistakenly thought accumulating knowledge would get him ahead.

How Jen created opportunities while taking on a new skill.

Show up, and do the work.

Are you frustrated with your current situation? Have you put in the work? Have you taken action?

The grass isn't always greener.

Self-reflection.

You will have bad days.

Personal responsibility.

What does taking action look like?

Trying to be like the salon down the street will only ever allow you to be a watered-down version of the salon down the street and not your own thing.

Get outside of your industry!

Just because you're an employee doesn't mean you can't be your own brand.

PRO TIP: People love to talk about themselves, let them.

There is no secret sauce, sorry.

You need to take action regardless of what you currently know.

Todd talks about reaching out to other business owners and networking.

Find a mentor who can guide you through the process.

Constantly reevaluate. What are your goals? Where are your goals going? Do they align still?

Hello Hair Pro: Cutting & Styling Class

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 16:14:31 GMT

Would you like to bring some extra imagination and artistry to your work?

We're hosting the 1st Hello Hair Pro in-person class! (Finally ��)

Join us for a day of education, inspiration, and entertainment!

This hands-on class will refine and take your cutting skills to the next level.

Attendees can expect to learn a long-layered style with face-framing and a modern take on a shag with curtain bangs.

You can also expect to learn some tips to use during your consultations and styling and finish work.

what: one-day hands-on class

who: all licensed hair pros are welcome

when: june 26, 2022

where: hello hair co, 18 orchard view drives, londonderry nh

investment: $199

inquiries: email jen@hellohairco.com

some fun we're supplying so that you can travel light and take it all in:

mannequin, lunch, goodie bag, and plenty of q&a time

you bring:

scissors, clips, combs, a water bottle, a blowdryer, and brushes

Come get creative with us at Hello Hair Co.

Hello Hair Pro FAQs

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 13:39:07 GMT

the Hello Hair Pro podcast: FAQs [EP:39]

We were excited to do a show covering some FAQs. Single topic shows allow us to dive in deep on topics but most people will benefit from simple, concise, actionable steps.

In this episode, Jen and Todd answer some of the frequently asked questions that they hear. Here's a look at the questions they cover:

What's one tip you'd give someone about Instagram?

How do I get more clients?

I don't like where I'm currently working. What should I do?

I want to open my own salon in the future. Where do I start?

How do I make the most out of an interview?

I'd like to increase my profit. How do I do that?

How can I avoid last-minute cancellations?

I feel like the market is saturated. How can I stand out?

When and How to Raise Prices & Building a Clientele

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Thu, 19 May 2022 18:59:51 GMT

When and How to Raise Prices & Building a Clientele

In this episode Jen and Todd talk about raising prices and building a clientele.

When to raise prices

What metrics to consider

It's OK if clients leave

How to not want to get sick over it

Building

Figure out who you are

Figure out what you wan to do

Figure out who you want to serve

Figure out how you'll serve them

Figure out where potential clients are

Patience

Excitment

Get good at having conversations

Listen

Be on time

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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Get on our mailing list! (this one you should def do!)

Snapshot Stories: Christian Gaytan

todd@hellohairco.com (Todd Ford) — Mon, 16 May 2022 11:00:00 GMT

I've written the beginning of this article several times.

The first draft was rough, ironic, I know. The following revisions took on too much sarcasm and, we'll say, bluntness. The last thing I want to do is turn people off and miss a chance to help.

I need to point out some missed opportunities and mistakes I see the industry making. Especially new pros. But I'm attempting to hold back some of my typical directness because I think it'll resonate better. Not my general style, but let's give it a shot.

A few years ago, I was scrolling through Instagram and noticed a pattern. Every post was the same. Like 99% of them, no exaggeration. Every post was the back of a head with an arbitrary caption.

*back of the head*

"orange soda"

*back of the head*

"caramel latte"

Fast forward to today as we head into Spring 2022 (winter by the time I get this thing freaking published). Most of what you'll find from the hair world hasn't changed. The same lackluster pattern.

"Should I caption this french fry balayage or burnt pancake?!" while flashing a phone in a colleague's face.

What?! Here comes the candor. I tried.

Did you really just spend hours of your time carefully crafting a beautiful piece of work that you're now trying to sum up with 1 or 2 random words? Hold that thought.

If you're attempting to use social media for marketing yourself and gaining clients, there should be some intent and focus.

Think about these things:

What do you want to happen?

What problem are you solving for your audience?

Who even is your audience?

What do you want them to do next?

Writing "grape soda" and posting the back of someone's head doesn't do it, peeps; it just doesn't.

I've digressed.

This is the story of Christian Gaytan's Instagram page and the inspiration that I found in it. I do want to be clear that this is only a snapshot.

Christian has a family, was a musician before jumping into the hair industry in 2004, and rocks a minivan. And even though I learned that from his IG page, there's much more to someone than social media.

I point that out to be respectful. I point it out because, unfortunately, many people look at social media as the whole story, and it's so incomplete by nature.

I'm writing this to help. Steal what you wish, borrow if it makes you feel better, whatever helps you. I hope you find inspiration and maybe even gain some insight on a different way to show your work to the world.

Anyway, here's a story about a chill guy from Chicago, his IG page, and the conversation that followed.

I first learned about Christian Awesome from my wife and business partner, Jen. She had taken one of his classes in Florida and said I should check out his IG page.

I did. Here's what I found.

You're hit with thought-out, clear images as you scroll. Christian uses bokeh, which is when the background is blurred, to accentuate his subject. He also uses simple, clean backgrounds in his photos, making it immediately clear what he wants you to see. It's thought-provoking and engaging.

I enjoy most that you see a person's eyes in almost all of his photos. Seeing their eyes completes the story. His work provides a sense of attitude and confidence, and it's clear. It's right there on his client's faces.

You discover subtle details about his approach by checking out his captions. They range from fun and playful to informing and educational. Even his shortest captions connect you to his work and make sense. There's not much arbitrary wording. Instead, you get a showcase of art with some instruction.

In one caption, he writes, "I hid a lil message in the top right corner for ya" when you zoom in, the words "Quit lurking and book a haircut" appear. This hints at his sense of humor which is refreshing because I think the hair industry takes itself too seriously.

I had to chat with him. We'll meet in June (I think June) when he'll be at Hello Hair Co for a class, but I wasn't waiting. I shot him a DM and asked if it would be OK to send some questions with the intent of putting together an article. He thought it was cool and was happy to help.

As of now, I have not read his responses to my questions, I have them, but I thought I'd try a new approach. I wanted to tell the story about my reaction to his page first. I'm not sure what I'm hoping will happen. Maybe something cool, maybe not. I want to meet cool people, talk to them, and tell a snapshot story about part of their lives. So, that's what this is; The first snapshot story.

We should get to those questions. They're based on my own curiosity and what I believe would help others. I wanted to capture some behind-the-scenes thoughts to help you organize and get your work out there.

OK, I've read his answers. Let's get into it!

I understand the feat of running social media accounts and the process of editing and curating the pieces to tell your story. So, my first question was: Do you run your page on your own, or do you have help running it?

Christian answered, "I run my own page. As much as I would love to outsource aspects of it, I don't think creatively I could do it now."

I couldn't agree more. It would be nice to have someone run ours, but I think our vision would become diluted, and I'm not ready for that.

Because the vibe was so inspiring to me, I asked: How did you come up with the vibe/aesthetic?

"I took a little inspiration from everywhere, really. I tried to model it after the bits and pieces that grab my attention anytime I'm scrolling through hair stuff. Over time it just kinda became what it is now. I want people to see my stuff and think, "oh hey, he's pretty good, and the people look like they're having a rad time…oh shit, he teaches too?!" It's still changing, though. I think it's good to keep things changing and moving forward."

I like that he's taken the time to define what he wants us to take away from the page. I'm not sure many people are doing that in our industry. We should know our audience and create for them, but that's another article. It's OK to change things over time. As we learn and grow, it's almost unfair to ourselves to keep doing the same stuff.

I know you can work from a phone, and I still use mine for stuff. I also know that gear is where it's at when you become even slightly interested in taking things to the next level.

My next question was: What gear do you use? Camera, lighting, editing, etc.

"I shoot with a Fujifilm xs10 and a 35mm lens mostly. It's got great mid-range video specs since Insta and TikTok are heavy video platforms. Ideally, I like natural light, but on occasion, I'll use a few softboxes, reflectors, and backdrops I have set up. Editing I keep really minimal. Smoothing skin and sharpening facial features like the eyes. I use Picsart for that, and for video, I exclusively use InShot."

Do you need to run out and spend thousands on a camera? Probably not, but if you're into it, it'll help. I'd focus less on the specifics and more on what you want to accomplish. Christian made choices based on the platforms he was creating for. I recommend doing the same. You do not need to become a photographer, but thinking like one will elevate your game.

The main reason I dig your page is that you can see your client's faces and smiles. You can tell they're happy. I think that's drastically underrated and a huge opportunity that our industry is missing the mark on. Could you talk a bit about that?

"First off, thank you! That's exactly the vibe I go for. I figure if I was shopping around for a hairdresser, I'd want to see people loving their hair and having a good time. I think some clients might like the technical aspects of it, but most just want to love their hair and be in good company. So I try to capture that."

For me, it completes the story. The haircut and color are subjective. I want to know if your client is happy. That is the only thing that matters. A trendy cut is dope until your client doesn't like it. Then it doesn't work. It's less about what we think and more about the client. Just something to keep in mind when you're creating.

I've recently become a super fan of pre-planning content. It was born of necessity. If you're not pre-planning, start. You'll be able to accomplish much more in less time.

How much thought and pre-planning goes into your content? Could you talk a bit about what that looks like?

"I loosely pre-plan all my static images at the start of each month. I've got years' worth of stuff I can use, so I schedule enough for each working day. I take off weekends from posting anything to be with family and just to take a mental break. The reels, I'll admit I'm last minute on. I usually make one today to throw up tomorrow. Still trying to find my groove in editing those as quickly as I can images. Eventually, I'd like to have those pre-edited at the start of the month as well."

Something that pops to me is there's a catalog to work from. That's magic. Don't get stuck trying to create a post daily. Instead, capture everything. Document. That'll put you ahead, and ahead is where you want to play from. Find a workflow that you're comfortable with and give it a fair shot. Also, spending more time in the real world with your family is a thing. Do that.

I hear and see a lot of people who say they're trying to gain clients through their IG page, but then they're posting content directed toward other stylists. For example, they post formulas and tips and tricks for doing hair. Nothing wrong with that, but it is two wildly different audiences. Who are you speaking to with your page? And what are you trying to accomplish with it?

"This is a tricky one as I'm trying to find a way to balance both myself. I would say I'm mainly speaking to new and existing clients as the work I do behind the chair makes up the majority of my income. But I teach as well, quite a bit, actually. So I'm always trying to figure out how to work that into my strategy. I'm trying to accomplish growing a clientele at a price point that would allow me more flexibility in my schedule. I've spent the last two years trying to work out what the next steps in my career are, but between working behind the chair and education, I don't have much free time to flesh that out, ya know?"

Agreed, it's certainly a balancing act. The important part is that there's thought behind everything.

Do you take photos/videos of regular clients, or are they, models?

"95% are regular clients, with the one-off being a demo model from a class I'm teaching. I would love to get to a point where I dedicate a day or two a month to do creative work on models just cause I feel like it, haha."

I asked this question because it comes up a lot. I've seen all sorts of opinions, but few offer value. I read something from an Insta-famous barber claiming, "I don't take pictures of paying clients because that's not why they're there." Look, you have to do what's best for you. People love to feel included, so I don't think taking photos of clients is wrong. If someone doesn't want their picture taken, they'll tell you.

Do you offer them anything in return? For example, we give a model discount with the understanding that we're working slowly, sometimes in an education setting, and we'll be taking content.

"lol, this is exactly what I want to implement. Just haven't found the right opportunity to put it into practice."

Do you somehow make it an experience people want to be part of?

"Absolutely. I've made it through trial and error, a part of my haircut experience. If the process is messy and people aren't into it, you'll be able to read that in the video and images. So the entire service is me building up to that photo/video session. I want them to look and feel authentically hyped about their new hair."

It's pretty clear that they're hyped, so it's working.

What advice would you give stylists/barbers to help them show off their work?

"Learn some basic photography principles even if you plan on shooting with your phone. Everything I've learned has been a combo of trial and error, asking clients who are professional photographers for advice, and watching hours of free education on YouTube. That and stop marketing to each other. I think we got to a place where we've created this feedback loop of content and information directed at ourselves. We think if we get that repost or share, it's somehow going to lead to some payoff, and for a few, it might. But for most, it's a lot of effort to put into something that won't put more people in your chair. Speak to the people you want there first."

That's what I've been sharing with people too. If your goal is putting people in your chair, you have to share content that accomplishes that.

Where do you see things like Instagram going in the future, and any trend predictions?

"I saw they just launched some features for creators recently. Subscriptions for exclusive content and stuff like that. Could be interesting to see where that goes. But ultimately, I think it'll age itself out. Like it'll never go away, but people will use it as a platform to reach a certain demo like Facebook. TikTok will be where everyone goes until something new comes around, and the cycle repeats."

That's the thought I have, too. I think people will push these apps as far as they can and then bounce as new platforms are released. There's a ton of value in early adoption.

We want to know what's next for Christian! Where can people find you? What are you up to next? Anything you want to shout out or pump up?

"I'm on Instagram mostly @christianawesome. I'm slowly dripping bits on TikTok, too @christian.awesome. This year I'm teaching loads of classes. Private, public, and one on ones. The goal is to build up enough momentum to launch streamable haircutting education. Currently working on the curriculum for that at the moment. And then next, who knows, haha."

Exciting stuff that I can't wait to watch come together.

Remember that thought I told you to hold? What do you think now?

This was a fun piece that wouldn't have happened without Christian and his awesome IG page. So, thanks to him for the inspiration.

Special shout out to my wife, Jen, who constantly encourages me to try out my ideas and explore.

I hope you enjoyed the story and were able to take something for yourself. Keep creating and pushing yourself. For me, it's onto the next snapshot story. Who should I hit up next?

Todd's Story

Thu, 12 May 2022 16:02:50 GMT

Todd's Story [EP:35]

In this episode, Jen flips the roles and asks Todd a series of questions. We start at the place Todd and Jen met and go from there. Similar to episode 33, Todd does not know the questions ahead of time. Especially the rapid-fire arbitrary ones at the end that Jen added simply to drive him crazy. ��

How did we meet?
How did you become these things: Todd the barber, Todd the owner of Hello, Todd the podcaster?
Why did you pick the barber school that you picked?
What are your thoughts on people staying in school?
What do you like most about the hair industry?
What makes you cringe about the hair industry?
What was it like when we decided to become business partners, and how has it changed?
What do you like most about working with your wife, and what do you struggle with?
What is your opinion on using social media to build a brand and attract clients vs using it for fun?
What's your favorite color? (Yes, Jen took it to these arbitrary questions at the end. ��)
Beverage of choice in the morning?
What did you want to be when you grew up?
What new things do you have going on next?
How do you take your coffee?

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Book an intro Mentoring call with us! BOOK NOW!

PingPong Design + Marketing

Hello Hair Pro Exclusive Offer: pingpongdm.com/hello-hair-promo

Todd: https://www.instagram.com/manyaprons

Jen: https://www.instagram.com/paintingallthehairs

Hello Hair Co: https://www.instagram.com/hellohairco

Hello Hair Pro: https://www.instagram.com/hellohairpro

Beard Care & Tips

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 02:56:28 GMT

Beards are popular. Some may even claim they’re trending, but we don’t think a good beard ever goes out of style.

Caring for a beard is straightforward, although there are a few things to consider. How should you wash it? Should you use beard oil? What shape works best for you?

Great news! We’ll address these concerns and keep things super simple because we’re into that sort of thing.

Let’s jump in.

Beards need to be cleaned and cared for. There are tons of beard-specific wash products on the market. We’re currently looking into finding one to bring into Hello. For now, you can do a little research and find a product that you like. If you don’t feel like doing any research and want something to get the job done, we’d recommend checking out Wash by CULT + KING. Wash is an all-in-one bar that will work as a shampoo, body, and face wash. Check it out here.

Let’s answer a few common questions to steer you in the right direction.

Can you wash a beard with shampoo? A shampoo is OK in a pinch, but it’s not designed for the skin. Also, keep in mind many shampoos strip hair of natural oils and/or cover them. If shampoo is what you’ve got available, we recommend using a face wash on the non-bearded parts of your face.

My beard is super short. Can I get away with just face wash? If you’re keeping your facial hair more toward the 5-o’clock shadow or stubble look, you can most likely get away with just using a face wash. By the time the hair would be drying out or affected negatively, it’s being cut off.

My beard is long and tends to be unruly. What can I do? The best thing you could do would be to book a beard trim with one of our barbers . They’ll be able to shape things up and give you a fresh start. Often, beards just need a little care to get them organized and cooperating. We’d also recommend a product like Balm from CULT + KING. Balm delivers manageability and moisture without the traditional shine of typical beard oil. It’s also got a super clean, refreshing scent. C+K Balm definitely has your back, um, your beard; it has your beard!

Should I use beard oil? Great question! We think so. Living in the North East, our winters get very dry. Beard oil will add moisture to your beard and the skin below. If you tend to get itchy, give it a shot. Start off slow, maybe every other day, and use sparingly. If you find your beard is still dry, add a bit more. If you notice it’s a little too oily, then dial it back.

Regarding what shape works best for you, we believe in individuality and expression. Yes, certain beard shapes and styles work better with certain face shapes, but, what type of beard you rock is up to you! If you’re not sure, want to start growing a beard, or are looking for a change, then book an appointment with one of our barbers, and we’d be happy to guide your decision-making process.

Click here to request an appointment with one of our Hello Barbers!

What We Love About Clean Beauty

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 03:07:31 GMT

What We Love About Clean Beauty

Working with clean beauty brands that take sustainability seriously and share common values is essential to us. We take a put-our-money-where-our-mouth-is approach and hold the companies we choose to work with to the same. The truth is many companies are claiming to be free from certain chemicals while still using them. This is possible due to labeling laws.

We want to be around less harmful chemicals, and we want the same for our clients. Finding clean beauty products that perform to our standards was crucial. Would the products perform as promised? What, if anything, would we be sacrificing? Do the companies offer links to sell online? (Since we won’t be selling retail in-salon much longer, if at all depending on when this article posts.)

We’ve played around with and sampled many lines. We have spoken to distributors, other salon owners, and directly to a few company founders.

So far, here are a few of our favorites!

First up is evo.

This company is fun! We like to think we’re fun too! With creative names and clean packaging, we were immediately drawn to the line. In the often pretentious hair industry, we love that evo doesn’t take themselves so seriously. So much, that co-owner Jen has become an evo brand educator! So far, this group of people has been absolutely amazing. They’re taking on the BS that you see from the big brands and calling out “over-inflated truths,” and we’re here for it! Check out evo here!

Next up is CULT + KING.

This unapologetic brand definitely knows who they are, and they’re not shy about it. That sounds a lot like us. They are anti-plastic, with many of the products coming in beautiful glass bottles. When it’s time to top-up, they send minimal refill pouches so that you can reuse those gorgeous bottles. Everything can be recycled, and we’re all about that. They pride themselves on having few products that solve many problems, ultimately leading to less waste.

From their website: “We can’t allow these conglomerates to destroy our industry, health, and planet. We’re on a mission to educate people that it is possible to combine consciousness, style and self-identity.” Find CULT + KING here!

Last but definitely not least is Hairstory.

This brand began with asking questions. So did we. Doing away with industry norms and clever marketing, Hairstory provides opportunities for hair pros to work with excellent products while eliminating the middle-man. They also offer refills to cut down on packaging. Their line is concise yet comprehensive. The approach is a limited amount of products that do the job. We can stand behind that. Here’s where you can check out Hairstory!

You can learn more about these products and the other great brands we’re working with here. As always, if you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask your Hello stylist or barber .

It’s On You

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 06:15:21 GMT

It’s On You

“The problem human beings face is not that we aim too high and fail, but that we aim too low and succeed.”

-Michelangelo

I want to touch on mindset and focus today. No pun intended; it’s been on my mind lately. I have been a coach for many years. Before joining Jen to launch our salon, I owned a gym for ten years. Before that, I coached for another gym for a couple of years. And before that, I led teams in restaurants and various other professions. Most of my coaching, probably north of 85%, was spent teaching people how to overcome the barriers they’ve created in their minds. I coach hard. The harder I’m able to coach, the sooner my client sees results.

Let’s jump into some stuff that I see in the hair industry.

“Exceptional people, I have found, either start out being optimistic or learn to be optimistic because they realize that they can’t get what they want in life without being optimistic.”

-Dr. Bob Rotella

Dr. Bob Rotella is a sports psychologist who’s worked with many high-performing golfers and professional sports teams. He knows his stuff.

So how does this apply? Where am I going? I’ll tell you.

I see so much negativity in this industry. It doesn’t need to be that way, from endless, passive-aggressive posts about cancellations to the constant need to verify the profession to tearing others down. It’s enough to drive someone insane. What are you doing?! Why all of the negativity?

A scarcity mindset is what drives most of these examples. If your clients are constantly canceling, don’t allow them to book. Take control. If people pass comments about the industry not being a ‘real’ profession, whatever the fuck that means, let it go. Who cares?!. And don’t tear people down; that’s not cool. The scarcity mindset forces people to believe there won’t be more clients, the industry needs protecting (the beauty industry is currently valued at $511 billion and not going anywhere), and if they make someone else look bad, they’ll look better. All laughable, if we’re honest. The industry doesn’t need protecting; it needs change-that’ll be another post.

When you’re optimistic, you tend to attract other like-minded happy people. When someone around me is constantly negative, it’s not long before I remove them from my life, like fast, with the quickness. They gone. Bye. I don’t have time for that noise, and you don’t either. Instead, embrace and spread positivity. There’s plenty of prosperity to go around. Most times, if you help others find success, it won’t be long until you find yours.

“Fuck “try.” Trying is an open invitation to failure, just another way of saying, “If I fail, it’s not my fault; I tried.”

-Tim S Grover

Tim S Grover is a personal trainer who’s worked with some gentlemen you may have heard of, Kobe, Jordan, D Wade. So when I say he knows his stuff, I’m not fucking around. His coaching strategy has his clients embracing their dark side and allowing it to take over. Ownership of everything because, at the end of the day, it’s on you.

Where am I going with this quote? Glad you asked!

I see many owners blaming employees and vice-versa in both directions, its’ your fault, not the other way around. If you’re an owner who has out-of-control employees, it’s on you. Could you do something about it? On the flip side, if you’re an employee with a jerk-face of a boss, it’s on you. Could you do something about it? You are responsible for your failures, along with any situations that you allow yourself to remain. Stop trying to make garbage situations work.

I don’t believe there’s anything wrong with failing IF you view it as a learning opportunity. I try to fail as fast as possible when I’m learning. Embrace that shit! That’s a growth mindset, and you should adopt it if you struggle in any aspect of your life.

I genuinely wish the best for everyone, which means that a lot of discomfort needs to occur. There is plenty of room for all. I want more positivity. I want more people to bring people together. I want fewer hashtags about community, culture, and competition that are for show. I want fewer people looking to social media for verification.

We touch on some of this stuff in an upcoming podcast episode .

I’d love to hear your thoughts on anything I touched on. Hit me up here!

Attracting The RIGHT Clients

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 06:18:58 GMT

Attracting The Right Clients

We recently were asked, “How do I attract new clients, specifically the type of client I want in my chair?”

I think this is a great question! Everyone always asks how to attract clients, but few ask how to appeal to a specific type. HINT: the answer is not posting the back of someone’s head on Instagram and hoping people find you.

Let’s jump in!

You need to take a few minutes and answer a few questions.

1) WHAT do you want to do? WHAT is your specialty? Be specific. Color isn’t as good of an answer as Foiling.

2) WHO do you want to do it for? WHO do you want in your chair? Again, be specific. Examples might be moms who are 30-50 years of age, small business owners who have been in business for 3-5 years, or college students in their final two years.

3) HOW will you make them aware? WHERE are they? (Physically and Virtually). Moms may hang out in local coffee shops after the kids head off to school. Or maybe there’s a moms group that meets in a park. Regarding virtually, they’re probably on mom’s pages on Facebook.

Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll have an outline for your marketing plan of attack.

Let’s keep going!

You need to identify a common problem that your WHO faces. Mom’s most likely need low maintenance due to having limited time. They also want to feel special and taken care of since most of their time revolves around taking care of others. How does your WHAT solve some of those problems for them?

The next step is to make your WHO aware you exist. That could be collecting emails, reaching out in person, or showing up WHERE they spend time.

Now, offer something to your WHO . I would avoid discounts; a free offer is best here, and it does not need to be a service. You can also collect emails (do this!) by offering something like a PDF or access to a video that you’ve made that helps solve your WHO’s problem. Maybe it’s tutorials focused on “Simple, quick but fun styles for busy moms!” which you share in the mom’s Facebook groups.

Keep repeating this process. Consistency is clutch when it comes to this stuff. Your WHO has a life, and even though they may be excited about meeting you, they get busy, and people forget stuff. It doesn’t mean they don’t want your services. It means they need reminding that you exist and can solve their problems.

Pro tip: When it comes to a Call To Action (CTA), you need to be crystal clear! Remember, you’re solving people’s problems, not creating more steps for them.

Here’s my CTA.

CLICK HERE , and get on our mailing list. We’re hosting our first live Zoom chat on 11/15, and you should be there. See how clear that was?

–Todd

Educating In The Hair Industry

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 03:14:19 GMT

Educating In The Hair Industry

Education looks like many things.

We believe that anyone and everyone who wants to learn how to educate should. You do not need permission, a certain amount of years, or to jump through hoops.

Check out this week’s episode of the Hello Hair Pro podcast for more!

The Hello Hair Pro Podcast [EP:03]

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 03:47:16 GMT

The Hello Hair Pro Podcast [EP:03]

In this episode, Jen and Todd chat about discounting. They cover topics like fairness for your clients and integrity.

They also mention The Pumpkin Plan by MIKE MICHALOWICZ. We will link the site if you’re interested in checking it out!

https://pumpkinplan.com/

Join the Hello Hair Pro mailing list here: SIGN ME UP!

Don’t Discount

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 19:02:29 GMT

In the most recent episode of our podcast, Jen and I chat about discounts. We believe that you should probably avoid them.

With 20+ years of business ownership, we’ve tried countless marketing strategies and can tell you from experience what works and what doesn’t.

Let’s jump into a few reasons for avoiding discounts.

First, they’re never fair. Running deals for “New Clients Only!” causes segregation within your customer base. Some pay more, and some pay less, based on nothing more than showing up late to the party. Now, I know life isn’t fair, but that doesn’t mean that you should go out of your way to create unfair scenarios. How would you feel if you supported someone for years, paying full price because you respected the person as a professional and found out others got charged less than you?

Next, come the coupon chasers. I have nothing against people who chase coupons, try to save money, or live for the challenge of finding the best deal. But they’re not my target client.

Quick story: Back in the day, I worked with a company that drove customers into my business via deep discounts. Their approach was, “We get them in the door, and it’s your job to keep them.” It made sense at the time because I wasn’t aware of consumer behavior. The influx of new clients took away from my current clients, who were all paying full price. Then, another local business ran a discount, and almost all of those new clients jumped ship and moved on! They were never there for my business; they were there for the deal.

My final point is rampant in this industry—emotional discounting. I’m not a cold-hearted person. Quite the opposite. If I didn’t need money to solve the problems we face (housing, food, clothing, etc.), I’d be all about serving others for free. Unfortunately, we need money to solve the problems our modern lifestyle presents. Knowing that others face those same problems makes it easy to slip into emotional discounting. I know how it feels not to have money, so when someone says, “That’s not in my budget.” my initial thought is, “How can I help this person?” You need to take a step back and realize that your responsibility is to your business first. If you go out of business, then you won’t be able to help anyone.

“But, Todd, it’s only this once!”

It’s not. You know it’s not. Once you go down that road, you’ll find reasons to discount everyone.

Should I ever discount?

Look, friends, there’s no right or wrong. As much as I’d love if the world operated in a strictly black-or-white fashion, it doesn’t. The intent of our podcasts, this blog, and our social presence is to open things up to have conversations. Do discounts drive business? Sure do. If you have a brand new company that you need to raise awareness for, could temporary discounts help? Sure could.

I’d be cautious and have a solid game plan that included items like intelligent wording, expiration dates, and end game, and tangible metrics.

If you need help or want to chat, email me here .

The Hello Hair Pro Podcast [EP:02]

Tue, 21 Sep 2021 03:49:34 GMT

The Hello Hair Pro Podcast [EP:02]

In this episode, Hello Hair Co co-owners Jen and Todd talk about salon tech, sanitation, and retail. They also touch on the importance of being able to pivot.

If you’re interested in learning more about Hello Hair Pro you can get on our mailing list here: https://www.hellohairco.com/hello-hair-pro

Have More Tough Conversations

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 19:03:48 GMT

What a world it would be if we only ever had incredible conversations that filled us with joy and fulfillment!

Welp, that’s not the world we live in, so here we are.

Let’s dive into why having tough conversations will lead you to more happiness.

Trust. It’s not always easy, to be honest with people. We avoid confrontation for all sorts of reasons, and one of them is to avoid hurting others’ feelings. Although our aim should never be to hurt someones’ feelings, honesty is more important. Over time, people will begin to trust and value your opinion because they understand that you’re authentic.

Avoid resentment. If you aren’t able to have the tough conversations, you’re undoubtedly going to harbor some resentment. For example, you feel like your boss is taking advantage of you. Instead of approaching them and having honest communication, you allow it to ‘slide.’ Weeks pass, and something else happens, now things are beginning to stack up. You’re resentful, and part of the problem was your inaction.

Improve your communication. Everyone should want to be better at communicating. Look at having tough conversations as practice. They won’t get easier over time, but the way you experience them will. Eventually, you won’t worry so much about having them, and you’ll be able to focus instead on the points of the convo.

Here are a few tips that will help you:

Be honest and approach the conversations with integrity and humility.
Avoid becoming reactive.
Pause and truly listen to the other person.
Don’t put conversations off when possible.
Take a walk and take some deep breaths before your convo.
Have a list of topics you want to cover with you. Bring a notebook. It’s easy to skip some of your points, don’t.
Don’t project what someone else is going to say or do. You can only control what you say and do.

You can reach out if you need help. I’d also love you if you jumped onto our mailing list!

Hello Hair Pro Mailing List

Vish And Reducing Waste

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 03:51:19 GMT

Vish And Reducing Waste

Doing our part to reduce waste is a big deal to us.

When we initially found Vish , we were blown away by how simple they made things.

Vish is a color management software that stores our client’s formulas, makes reordering a breeze, and helps salons with profitability.

But the best part is the reweigh feature. When a stylist or barber finishes applying their client’s color, they reweigh the bowl. Vish then calculates the difference; the next time the client is in for a service, the waste is removed from the formula automatically.

Last year, salons that utilized Vish combined to eliminate over 1.8 Million dollars of color from going down the drain. We think that’s pretty great!

Check out this clip from our podcast and if you’re a Hair Pro or just interested in what we’re up to; get on our mailing list!

Mission, Vision, And Core Values.

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 04:11:23 GMT

Our podcast is live!

We can be found on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Stitcher. We will update when we’re up on Apple and Google Podcasts.

“Our goal is to inspire and entertain salon and barbershop owners, stylists, and barbers! Regardless of whether you’re commission-based or independent and no matter where you are in your journey.”

If you want to get on our mailing list you can do that here: HELLO HAIR PRO MAILING LIST

We have a survey and some other fun (and exclusive) stuff going out to that list soon!

In this clip Todd talks about the importance of laying out the mission , vision, and core values for your business.

Mission, Vision, And Core Values.

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 19:05:16 GMT

Mission, Vision, And Core Values.

I cannot tell you how many times someone has told me they’re starting a business and then show me a logo idea and a color scheme.

A logo is not where you want to begin. I promise. Don’t get me wrong; logos are fun but far less important than people think.

OK, Todd! So, where DO we start?

Glad you asked!

I recommend spending some time writing out three things:

Your mission statement.
Your vision statement.
Your core values.

Let’s take a quick look at each and why they’re essential to your business.

Your mission statement is a summary of your business. Think about it like a written snapshot. It should describe who you are, what you do, and for who. You can add more like who and why. This statement is vital for several reasons. Mainly, it’s going to help you identify your target audience or create an avatar client. Being clear in your mission will also help avoid confusion among potential customers, which is always a good thing.

Your vision statement is where your business is going. It should invoke a sense of inspiration and motivate people. A good vision makes me almost start to daydream about possibilities. Where do you see your company in five, ten, one-hundred years? What has it accomplished? Who has it helped? How did it solve problems?

Your core values or guiding principles are the most critical piece in making decisions. Your values are the beliefs that you unapologetically believe and stand by. Without them, I’d argue, it’s impossible to be effective at decision-making. You will undoubtedly be inconsistent. Your customers, your employees, and even yourself will become confused. You must be crystal clear and unrelenting when it comes to standing by your values. For us at Hello, our values are non-negotiable, and we’ve decided against some opportunities that would’ve made us money, but one of our principles is integrity. Get it?

I’d love to hear about your business and share more with you if you have this stuff laid out. If not, reach out, and let’s chat about getting this stuff working for you.

If you’re a hair pro and you’re not on our Hello Hair Pro mailing list yet, WTF are you waiting for?! CLICK HERE NOW.

Also, at the time of writing this, we’ve launched “the Hello Hair Pro podcast,” which you can find on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon Music, Stitcher, and (soon) Google podcasts.

I’ll also embed a player below.

I Was Scared, Put It That Way.

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 04:12:49 GMT

I Was Scared, Put It That Way.

Our new podcast will be live on Monday 9.13! For now here’s a clip.

Don’t Be For Everyone

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 19:08:49 GMT

One of my pet peeves is when people think they need to justify themselves. You don’t.

Have you ever seen another industry make reels justifying their pricing with jingles? Nope.

Imagine if Louis Vuitton was dancing around like, “it costs that much cause it takes us fucking hours”? It would be weird. They know and understand their target audience, so they don’t need to justify their pricing.

OK, I understand that a lot of what we see is created for fun, which is cool. But not all of it is. Some of you are trying to explain stuff to people who aren’t even your audience. That, to me, is just a waste of time.

Try this instead.

Devote some time to creating a customer avatar. Sit down with a pen and pad and write down everything that comes to mind. Who are your products and services intended to help?

Who are they?

Where do they live?

What job do they have?

What are their hobbies?

What problems do they face?

Don’t stop there. On and on. The more detail, the better.

Once you’ve got all of your ideas and thoughts down on paper, start to organize them. Don’t rush this. You want to be as specific as possible.

The point is; you don’t need to be for everyone! You shouldn’t be. Does this mean that if someone who doesn’t fit your avatar comes to you for a service, you should kick them out? Of course not!

By having your target client identified, you can focus your marketing correctly and avoid wasting your time sharing memes about how you don’t have to go to college to make a certain amount of money.

Who cares if Sally-Saves-More doesn’t see the value in what you offer? Unless she happens to be your target, please don’t waste time on her. Your time is valuable!

Focus.

If you need help getting started, let me know.

BONUS ANNOUNCEMENT!

Jen and I have identified some areas of the industry that could use a little attention and have decided to launch a new project called “Hello Hair Pro.”

Hello Hair Pro was created to help hair pros at all stages of their career. We are launching an education series (in-person and virtual), a podcast and vlog, and other fun stuff. From fresh out of school to salon and shop owners, we’ve got something to help you.

So who is our target audience? Great question!

Our goal is to empower hair pros who desire more than what the industry is currently offering. If you’re willing to get uncomfortable for a chance to grow and you find yourself questioning the “it’s just always been done this way.” you need to get on our mailing list.

HELLO HAIR PRO MAILING LIST

You can find a bit more info here.

FREEDOM!

Sun, 29 Aug 2021 19:10:44 GMT

FREEDOM!

I hope you read the title in William Wallace’s voice. It’s that important. Let’s charge into this post! (Dumb joke.)

This one goes out (again) primarily to owners, but it’ll apply to all. Freedom is what people want, and it’s what you should provide. Yes, you should. If you don’t, your employees will eventually leave. Maybe not today or even in a few years, but ultimately, people’s lives change, and they need two things; freedom and opportunity.

Creating opportunity is a separate topic and one I’ll address in a future post.

Lack of freedom stems from a lack of leadership. No one wants to be micromanaged, yet most owners are doing exactly that.

I’ve been around owners who deny time-off requests. “Who’s going to cover those shifts?!” they ask. Um, why does it need to be covered?

Look, I own a business, and I’m not here to not make money but in the long run, worrying about a few shifts because someone wants to attend a wedding is small thinking. Now you have to hire someone to fill an entire schedule. Your staff quit because you kept denying time-off. That doesn’t even make sense to me.

Instead, offer freedom with responsibility. Your business needs rules, and those rules need to be adhered to, but within those rules should be freedom.

Here’s how things look at my salon:

-Employees choose their schedule. (As long as I have the chair available.)

-Employees have unlimited sick/personal days.

-Employees have unlimited vacation days. (I pay a week, but you take as much as you need.)

-Employees have the flexibility to come and go between clients. Have a day that fell apart? It happens. You don’t have to sit around.

-Employees choose their pricing.

-Employees choose the services they want to offer and are never forced to do services they don’t want to.

-Employees choose if they want to sell retail or not.

-Employees choose what they want to wear. We have very few rules because I’m not too fond of dress codes.

-Employees choose if they want to create additional streams of revenue.

-Employees don’t sign anything which allows them to work somewhere else while still working with us. You know, because no one owns anyone.

You get the point. I could keep going.

Most people think they can only achieve this level of freedom by going independent. False. In another post, I’ll break down the whole commission/independent debate and how it’s simply a pay structure thing. I digress.

The examples listed above are the type of things that people value. When you begin to take these things away, you become less desirable. No one wants to feel bad or nervous to ask for time off. And GTFO with the whole ‘the younger generation is just lazy!’ argument because it’s not true. They don’t see things as you do, nor do they value what you value.

So if you want to improve your culture and have the right employees stop micromanaging and become a leader, not a boss.

If you’re not sure what to do next, reach out.

Overpromising And How To Avoid It

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 19:11:16 GMT

Overpromising And How To Avoid It

This one goes out to the salon and shop owners out there.

Overpromising is rampant in the hair industry. I’ve heard of examples ranging from little things to the insane.

Here are two examples where I was present.

First, a salon owner was ready to offer a stylist a car to join her salon—an actual fucking vehicle. What is happening? How desperate do you have to be to be offering up a car?! Are you a freaking pyramid scheme?

Second, and you might not even believe this one even though it’s one hundred percent true. I was in a meeting where an owner promised an all-expenses-paid trip to China to a stylist . A-trip-to-China! All I could do was sit there and think to myself, “This business needs to be closed, and this person needs to be locked up.” I wish I were exaggerating; this shit happened.

Overpromising comes from fear. Owners become desperate and therefore willing to do almost anything to either keep or hire staff. It’s this odd paradox because if you just did the right things for employees, you wouldn’t need to create all of this smoke and mirrors stuff.

Here, let’s try to fix it.

Take a piece of paper and write down everything you offer. We offer tons of freedom, for example, so we highlight that when talking to potential stylists. Make sure to put some thought into this. Include your pay structure, core principles, brands you use, etc. The more transparent, the better.

If you don’t want your pay structure out there, it’s because you don’t believe in it. Read that again.

Next, identify your business’s key ‘strategic differences.’ What separates your business from the other two hundred and fifty-seven salons in town? You have to be honest here! Don’t just say things like “We value ongoing education.” if you don’t. That is one of the top things I hear from stylists looking for a new place. Avoid anything that you’re not clear about and ready to stand behind because the second you do that, you’re overpromising.

Once you’ve got your lists complete, you can begin to edit things. Soon you’ll have a concise and comprehensive offering that you can present to potential hires. It’s transparent and conveys what you offer without going down the road of overpromising. Now you can do business with integrity!

If someone isn’t willing to accept your offer, then they’re not a good fit. It’s as simple as that. Unless something makes sense and applies to EVERYONE, don’t change this or make accommodations for a single person.

Let’s avoid the sign-on bonus too. Too desperate. Believe in what you’re doing before others will follow.

Technology And Innovation

Sun, 15 Aug 2021 19:12:13 GMT

Technology And Innovation

It’s not 1982. You could have guessed that, but then why do I still see so many small business owners disregard tech and innovation?

I’m genuinely confused why you’d choose to ignore things that could improve your business. Even simple, everyday items like credit card processors are missing from some companies.

I’ve asked some owners about their reasoning, “Why don’t you take credit cards?” And, I’ve gotten all sorts of answers ranging from “I don’t want a paper trail.” to “I don’t want to pay fees.” to “The place down the street does it this way, and they’re fine.”

Quick Pro Tip: Doing something simply because someone else did is what got this industry into this mess. Yes, I do believe it’s a mess. An 8% average profit margin is abysmal, but we’ll address that in another post.

Lack of innovation is rampant in the hair world. It starts in the schools and spills over into many salons and barbershops. We’ll wait to shake things up with the schools and licensure in another post (Since drafting this post, I’ve posted about licensure, which you can read here .). It should be a good one that will probably earn me a ton of hate mail, but we’ll still give it a go.

My 2¢ on technology is that you need it to run an optimal business. Systematizing your company will save you time and, ultimately, money in the long run. Those happen to be facts so, feel free to reread that last sentence. Even though I’m injecting a smidge of humor into this post, it doesn’t invalidate my point. Here’s why:

Tech creates a frictionless experience for your clients. In the hair world, there are several areas of focus. We’ll grab some random ones that come to mind.

Booking. Color Management. Payment Processing. Product Ordering.

Let’s break each of those down a bit.

Booking should happen automatically. Your clients should be able to book an appointment easily without you. If they cannot, you’re creating friction. Every step someone has to complete leads to a higher probability of becoming frustrated or, worst-case scenario, not completing the task. You may not need anything robust, but a simple booking system will save you a ton of time; you can then use that time to focus on other tasks.

Color management is essential on many levels. This example might apply less to a traditional barbershop, but you all should still pay attention and take note. This post is less about specifics and more about the concept of innovation. I digress. OK, so color management software will eliminate waste, which is a simple strategy to reduce overhead. If you’re running a business, you’re probably hoping to create profit. With this tech, you’re able to do just that. Oh, and you’re eliminating color waste from going down the drain. Being conscious about the environment is another massive upside.

Payment processing should be as simple as possible for your clients. Trust me when I say it’s part of the experience. The days of cash only or having an ATM in your spot are going away. PEOPLE WANT FRICTIONLESS. Which is simpler?

Telling someone you only take cash. Showing the client to the ATM. Having them slide their card in, enter their PIN, pay a fee, remove their card, grab their cash, go back to you, hand you some money, need change, hand you back some of it for a tip, oh OK, now you can leave.
Tap card or phone on the reader. Leave.

I know it’s not difficult to do step 1, but it’s not ideal, and when we look at optimizing a business, it’s about creating as few steps as possible. Plus, it’s what people want. People want to use their phones. They want to tap cards. They embrace technology.

You believing that you’re hiding tips (you aren’t) isn’t a good enough reason for not taking cards, especially for newer professionals who someday want to buy a home or start their own business. We can solve the entire problem by not taking tips; again, that’s another blog post and one that I can’t wait to write!

With the emergence of cryptocurrencies (I’m not quite into but they’re a thing), software that can store clients’ payment information safely, and more, methods for simplifying our businesses exist and should be utilized.

Product orders can be a considerable undertaking for a salon. With the correct software or systems in place, your time becomes protected. For example, our color management software creates our orders. We then use the time saved from avoiding counting and constantly monitoring inventory on higher-level tasks.

These happen to be the first examples that popped into my mind. There are obviously a ton more, and I’ll address them later, I’m sure. The point is that businesses need to move forward with time, or I’m afraid they’ll be left behind.

You’ll notice a pattern in my thoughts in which there’s room for everyone. There is no secret sauce, and I don’t believe in hiding information that could be helpful to someone. I don’t want to see anyone fail. There are enough hairs to cut.

If you have questions or need help with anything, feel free to hit me up. Here’s a link to my email .

hello-hair-co

The Biggest Salon Trends Coming in 2026 (And How to Prepare)

How Employment Models, Operations, and Pricing Will Change the Salon Industry in 2026

Quick Answer

Key Takeaways

Employment Models

Pricing & Profitability

FAQs: 2026 Models, Operations & Pricing

Final Thoughts

The Biggest Salon Trends Coming in 2026 (And How to Prepare)

Education, Technology & Client Behavior Shifts Every Salon Must Prepare For

QUICK ANSWER

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Future of Education in the Salon Industry

Technology & AI Will Reshape Salon Operations

Client Behavior in 2026

FAQS: 2026 SALON EDUCATION & TECHNOLOGY

FINAL THOUGHTS

What to Prepare Before Opening a Salon

How to avoid the costly mistakes most new salon owners make before opening their doors.

Quick Answer

Key Takeaways

Start With the Foundations: Mission, Vision, and Core Values

• Mission: Why your salon exists

• Vision: What the business will become

• Core Values: How your salon operates

The Non-Negotiable Systems Every Owner Must Build Before Opening

• Banking & Accounting

• Payroll & Taxes

• Booking & Software

• Insurance & Utilities

• I nventory Management

Pricing for Profit (Not Stress)

•Know your weekly and monthly operating costs

•Understand your available hours

•Profit must be included intentionally

•Review pricing annually

Your Team Strategy Will Make or Break Your Salon

•Onboarding must be structured

•Growth paths create retention

•One-on-ones matter

•Hire intentionally

Build Your External Support System (Your “Bench”)

Accountant

Lawyer

Insurance Agent

Industry Mentor

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening a Salon

Final Thoughts

How Salon Apprenticeships Solve Hiring Problems (And What Owners Get Wrong)

A smarter, sustainable approach to growing talent from within.

Quick Answer

Key Takeaways

Why Apprenticeships Matter Now

How Apprenticeships Fix the Hiring Pipeline

The Most Common Apprenticeship Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

1. No Clear Milestones

2. Treating Apprentices Like Assistants

3. Lack of Communication About Timeline

How to Build an Effective Apprenticeship Program

1. Create a Training Curriculum

2. Create Weekly Practice Time

3. Use Mentor Teams, Not Just One Teacher

The Cultural Payoff

What Apprentices Gain

Frequently Asked Questions About Salon Apprenticeships

Final Thoughts

What Commission Owners & Stylists Get Wrong (And How to Fix It)

How better communication, leadership, and accountability fix the divide inside salons. ﻿

Quick Answer

Key Takeaways

Common Mistakes Commission Owners Make

Common Mistakes Stylists Make

How to Fix the Divide

FAQs & Insights: Commission Salon Success

Final Thoughts

Why Suite and Booth Renters Struggle (and How to Fix It)

Freedom without structure leads to chaos. Here’s how to fix it before it’s too late. ﻿

Key Takeaways

Quick Answer

How better communication, leadership, and accountability fix the divide inside salons.

Freedom without structure leads to chaos. Here’s how to fix it before it’s too late.

FAQs: What Booth Renters Need to Know