I got an e-mail from ROB|B, an OPI Concept Salon, this morning. The salon (which had its official grand opening party last Thursday…more on that in a future post) is offering a new promotion that I think some of you might find interesting — the “pink slip” mini manicure. For the month of April, anyone who has been laid off from their job can go to the salon on Wednesdays from 12-2 pm for a complimentary mini-manicure at the nail bar. The “pink slip special” is available to both new and regular clients of the salon.

The idea is that “in today’s economy, when a handshake truly counts,” a professional manicure is the best accessory a job seeker can have. I think this is a great idea. It will get new people into your salon, and while you might ask, “Do I really want new clients who are out of a job and might not be able to pay for regular services?” I think this is a great opportunity to build client loyalty. People remember good customer service and the companies/brands who helped when times were tough.

Have you thought about offering any “Economic Stimulus Package” or “pink slip” promotions at your salon? If so, I’d love to hear about them. Leave a comment in Feedback or e-mail me.

(If you haven’t been already, you can read all about Robbie Schaeffer’s adventure in opening ROB|B salon on our Blueprint of a First Year blog.)

— Hannah