How to Build a Successful Salon Business

Opening a hair or beauty salon can be extremely rewarding, but also challenging. 

Building a thriving, profitable salon takes careful planning, commitment and knowing what clients want. 

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Choose the Right Location

Research neighborhoods and find a spot based on your target demographics and competition. Busy areas with lots of foot traffic are ideal. Be visible and accessible to potential new clients. Consider retail spaces near gyms, shopping centers, hotels or offices.

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Design an Experience

Craft an atmosphere that wows clients upon entry. Design your layout carefully considering lighting, spaciousness, cleanliness and functionality. Select furniture that balances form and comfort. Display products prominently. Use decor that aligns with your brand image and makes clients feel pampered.

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Offer Distinctive Services

Build your menu of hair, nail, skincare and other beauty services based on trends and what sets you apart. Offer a signature style or treatment only available at your salon. Invest in advanced training on the latest techniques. Become known as the experts on certain niche offerings.

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Install Professional Equipment

Buy and maintain high-quality equipment so technicians can provide exceptional service. Have sturdy salon chairs with adjustable options. Use applicators and tools that simplify precision work and save time. Keep sharp shears, top towels and latest hair color palettes on hand.

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Implement Convenient Systems

Use online booking and point-of-sale software to allow easy appointment scheduling and credit card payments. Text clients reminders to reduce no-shows. Create an electronic client profiles tracking service and retail preferences. Speed up checkout lines with handheld payment devices.

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Price Services Strategically

Set prices in line with nearby competitors. Run promotions and loyalty reward programs to attract new clients. Offer first-time discounts or referral rewards. Cross sale bundle packages with retail products to increase order values. Revise pricing yearly as demand, costs and values shift.

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Market Your Salon Smartly

Promote openings across social media, email, flyers and local media. Ask happy clients to give online reviews. Refresh websites and post content showcasing offerings. Host events like new product preview nights. Partner with vendors or local businesses on specials driving traffic.

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Prioritise Customer Service

Hire friendly staff providing prompt, attentive service. Train them on consultative sales approaches, so they can guide customers withguiding great options and no pressure. Respect clients’ time with on-schedule appointments. Listen attentively, offering personalised recommendations. Create a welcoming vibe, making clients feel special.

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By focusing on convenience, customer experience and competency around in-demand services, you can make your salon the talk of the town for all the right reasons.

Need a way to better manage your salon’s finances? 

Get your free Parpera business account at parpera.com and access our all-in-one money management app, designed to help you optimise your cashflow, and get on top of all of that monotonous financial admin you’d rather not be doing.