For this month’s On the Couch, we turn to Bonnie Canavino, nail department and spa manager at Maxine in Chicago. Canavino oversees 11 nail technicians, four massage therapists, and six estheticians and is also responsible for ordering product, scheduling, handling client complaints, and developing new services.
Bah, Humbug
I am the only nail tech in a small salon that has six hairstylists. The salon is in a remodeled house, so I am in my own room. Last Christmas, all the hairstylists dressed up and went out to a two-hour lunch and gift exchange and I was not invited. I found out about it only by accident. I was pretty upset and am wondering how I should handle the situation this year. Thank you for any advice you can give me.
Dear Grinched on Christmas: Being
Physically separated from other areas of the salon presents a challenge not only in terms of your own relationships with coworkers, but for salon clients as well. It’s essential to remind everyone that you play a vital role in building clientele and establishing loyalty to the salon. Put together a total salon marketing plan that addresses this issue and stick with it. The plan should include:
Framed signs that identify each department and its location at the reception desk and on each floor and stairway.
A salon tour and promotional cards for every new client.
Mini-display throughout the salon with colorfully designed information about your or promotions.
Daily interaction between you and the salon staff. This could include offering service to the staff during downtime or being visible when you’re not busy. Try giving staff members a gift certificate for their best client (only those you have not serviced yet.)
Have mini-meetings to educate your coworkers about your newest services and promotions and troubleshoot any business concerns. The will start the talking and will build an interactive relationship and stimulate new ways to grow everyone’s books.