MENU
SEARCHIn a world where everyone loves to give an opinion, why ignoring some of them can be the best thing you do. Business consultant Phil Jackson from Build Your Salon, discusses how not all opinions count.
Phil Jackson
We are people pleasers: we have to be.
There aren’t many industries where your job, your career, your very success relies on the fact you can form an intimate relationship very quickly and maintain that friendly relationship with a customer over a long period of time.
The problem is that we reach a level of success where being a people-pleaser can actually start to hold us back. Let me explain.
I recently took a phone call from another salon coach - quite frequently I get approached by other mentors and coaches for a kind of "getting to know you call." There's not usually an agenda: it's our form of networking I suppose.
I took a call from a guy who seemed nice - I hadn't spoken to him before but we ended up chatting for about an hour and a half. He'd come across my work in the past and he made one tiny throw away comment during our conversation. He probably didn’t mean anything by it and I don't think there was malice behind it, but it had a real impact on me.
He said "I didn’t expect to like you."
That tiny little comment is what stayed with me after. I started to replay it, lying in bed that night wondering what I was doing wrong that makes people switch off. I wondered about the content of my writing and my videos because I always share with an open heart and my intention is always that you have a stronger business because of our time together.
Nearly a week later I kind of had to give myself a metaphorical slap around the face and to remind myself that actually the only opinion that matters is that of your marketplace. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks - certainly not your competitor.
This guy is not and will never be my customer. He’s not you, he’s not my audience.
So I'm not sure who needs to hear this, but I’m giving you full permission to ignore as many opinions about your business as you would like from now on! Learn from my week of paranoia!
There are people out there who would try and tell you that you are too ambitious, there are people out there who will tell you the things that you are striving for are beyond you or are unrealistic, or maybe that you don’t even deserve them.
Those are the kinds of opinions that will hold you back and trying to please those people will destroy your success. They aren’t coming from a place of harm, they’re not trying to hurt you - in fact the opposite; they are trying to keep you safe and it’s uncomfortable for people to watch you change.
Recognise the fear in others - then ignore them!
With 20 years in the salon industry and a passion for innovation, Phil Jackson is an international business coach offering a unique perspective on the challenges of salon ownership. Phil works with many salons, barbershops and spas around the world to build a business they can feel proud of, making sure they look outside the box and consider all aspects of the business.
Originally posted on Modern Salon
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
