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What low-cost extras do you provide that clients perceive as having a high value?

December 30, 2013

A complimentary glass of wine, an extra-long foot massage … these are the small gestures that keep clients coming back — and sending their friends to your salon. We asked techs: What low-cost extras do you provide that clients perceive as having a high value?

Answer

<p>Rachael Waggoner</p>

I always provide a complimentary UV-cured top coat for my clients. This keeps their nails shining until they see me for their next appointment.

Rachael Waggoner
Dazzlin Digits 3D Nails, Lakewood, Colo.

 

 <p>Amy Payne</p>

When I do pedicures, I keep a pack of disposable razors handy. That way, when I get a client who has a lot of hair on that big toe, I can just gently shave it off. And believe me, that little finishing touch makes a world of difference on their pretty new pedi.

Amy Payne
Cutting Corner Salon, Tecumseh, Mich.

 

If time permits I may do free nail art. The clients get a little treat and I get to introduce different art to them. I also treat them to paraffin, warm towels, warm lotions, and extra-long massages — just little things to let them know they are special and appreciated. But the number-one extra that every client receives: going above and beyond the sanitation requirements. I think this is what my clients perceive as the highest value.

Lydian Flash 
Austin, Texas

 <p>Teresa Heppenheimer</p>

We offer complimentary coffee, tea, and lattés from our Keurig and a biscotti treat on the side. We also rarely charge for repairs and we always have hand lotion on hand for after a nail service. For birthdays, we surprise the clients with either a complimentary Cotton Candy Hand Treatment, a detox foot soak and massage, or a mini facial cleanse.

Teresa Heppenheimer
Tee’s Nail NV, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada

 

I clean my clients’ gorgeous rings, earrings, and necklaces. When I’m finished making their hands awesome, it’s a nice touch for their jewelry to sparkle!

Shannon Bess
Shear Style, Beckley, W.Va.

 <p>Wendy McCall Bailey</p>

I give a free small bottle of Solar Oil and paraffin dips.

Wendy McCall Bailey
Nails by Wendy, Huntersville, N.C.

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More Q&A

How can I cut costs and finally make a profit?

I’ve been doing nails for almost two years and have built a decent clientele. The only problem is, I did the math and over 50% of my income is going back into nail products. I’m using top-of-the-line brands and disposable files. How can I cut costs and finally make a profit? I know our prices are too low as well, but we are trying to stay competitive. Any advice?

As a mobile tech, how do I ensure I get paid?

I have a question about working as a mobile tech. When clients book group events or nail parties, how do you go about getting deposits and payments? Have you ever traveled to a client’s house and they were unable to pay? What did you do?

What should I do differently with male clients?

I’m starting to get more and more male clients. I am wondering how long a manicure for a man should last and how to price it? Also do you have any recommendations on what else I can do to give them an extra masculine sense of comfort?

Should I Use Punch Cards?

I recently started working at a high-end salon and I’m looking for marketing ideas. Should I do punch cards? I can’t do “refer-a-friend” because I don’t have consistent clients yet. We are already doing social media.

Should I start requiring a nonrefundable deposit for special-time appointments?

I want to start requiring a nonrefundable deposit for special-time appointments. My posted hours are 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. by appointment only. I am ridiculously flexible with my schedule, and let people book earlier and later if they can’t get in during normal hours. Recently, I had a 7:30 a.m. no-show! She was supposed to get services totaling over $100, and I forfeited holiday plans to accommodate her. She comes every two weeks, so I can’t lose her, but this is the second time she’s no-showed. What should I do? And how would I go about informing current clients of the new policy on off-hour deposits?

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