It depends on the situation. Some things require immediate termination. That said, there are a few things as an owner you must look at. What is missing with your leadership that this happened? There is always a lesson to be learned. Then ask yourself, did I have a clearly written and communicated system or guideline that explained and dealt with the issue that just occurred? If not, put one in place. If so, what is missing that it is not being followed? As a rule of thumb, you should have an employee handbook, job descriptions, and clear systems employees know they have to follow. Start there. I recommend that you document everything that occurs with that employee, keep it written, and have her sign the warnings. Once it comes time to let someone go, be sure that you have a witness present during the conversation verifying what occurred. In any event, document everything and take the time to look at what happened, what can you learn, what was missing that you can add to the busines
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More FAQ
Reader to Reader: Should a salon keep its menu basic or include multiple lists of service options?
Should a salon keep its menu basic or include multiple lists of service options?... read more
How do you make your clients feel comfortable after they’ve cheated on you with another tech?
How do you make your clients feel comfortable after they’ve cheated on you with another tech?... read more
Reader to Reader: Has your salon employment ever been terminated against your will (like a firing or salon closing)? How did you handle it?
Has your salon employment ever been terminated against your will (like a firing or salon closing)? How did you handle it?... read more
How can I get clients to buy retail items?
I don’t know if people’s budgets are to blame but they don’t want to buy products for at-home use. They want you to give it away to them for free. I do have promotions and giveaways from time to time, but I can not afford to constantly give away products. How can I get them to pay for these items?... read more
Why won't people buy products for at-home use, but instead seek freebies?
I don’t know if people’s budgets are to blame but they don’t want to buy products for at-home use. They want you to give it away to them for free. I do have promotions and giveaways from time to time, but I can not afford to constantly give away products. How can I get them to pay for these items?... read more
How do I stay within my clients’ budgets while my costs keep going up?
How do I stay within my clients’ budgets while my costs keep going up?... read more
How do I find a manicurist [employee] who cares about building a business?
I’m tired of nail techs who make only a minimal effort and expect me (the salon owner) to do everything for them. How can I find a manicurist who cares about building a business?... read more
Dear Shari: What can we do about those returning clients who tip $1 for a manicure and pedicure service?
What can we do about those returning clients who tip $1 for a manicure and pedicure service? Is there a standard percentage — like at least 15% is a standard gratuity for dining out? Sincerely, Tipped Off... read more
Dear Shari: What can I do when a salon owner randomly charges me for expenses in addition to my booth rent?
I just began work as a booth renter. It’s my understanding I am responsible to pay only the amount I contracted to pay monthly. However, the salon owner is asking for money here and there to pay for things like beverages, clothing, advertising, etc. None of these things were ever discussed or agreed on previously. Shouldn’t the monthly rent cover the things she wants to have at her salon? Sincerely, Disgruntled Booth Renter... read more
Reader to Reader: Is it wise to create a social, stay-and-chat type of environment for clients in the salon?
Is it wise to create a social, stay-and-chat type of environment for clients in the salon?... read more
What Would You Do if Business at Your Salon Slowed Down?
Although it’s not something most nail techs or salons owners ever want to think about, there may come a time when business may slow down. This may be due to a bad economy or other reasons. Have you ever stopped to think what you would do if this ever happened to you? We posed that question to a salon owner, a booth renter, and an employee. Here’s what they had to say.... read more
What is the best way to handle cell phone abuse during a nail service?
What is the best way to handle cell phone abuse during a nail service? Some clients are on their cell phones four to six times during their service. It not only slows me down, but leaves room for contamination of the nail surface.... read more