I would evaluate all aspects of what may be causing this slow down. Are my employees being professional? Are they treating clients in a good manner? Is the salon’s atmosphere making clients feel welcome?
I would also check the quality of all services and make any changes and improvements necessary. I would consider the local economy and if my prices were too high. I would consider adding additional services, such as tanning and massage.
If business was still not picking up, I’d down size, and if it continued to get slower, I would become the only employee. I worked hard to own a nail salon so I wouldn’t completely give it up. I would operate on a part-time, appointment-only basis and keep my regular clients while rebuilding the salon.
Barbara Lee, salon owner, Country Nails, French Creek, W. Va.
When business slows down considerably, you have to figure out what the reason is for the drop in clientele. Is it something you are doing, or is it due to something else? I have always believed if you give clients more than what they expect for the money, they will never leave you.
Always try to go above and beyond what the client asks for. It’s all about pampering the client while he or she is in your chair. They are not only going to return because they think you are awesome, but they are going to refer all of their friends to you.
If your techniques are lacking and you can’t get clients to return, then you need to own up to the fact that you need more training. Regardless of how good your instructor was in beauty school, you will always need to continue your education.
Darlene Sammons, booth renter, Head To Toe Salon & Spa, Chattanooga, Tenn.
I’d never consider leaving my salon. I’ve been here for eight years and am loyal to my employer. They take good care of me.
The economy in Michigan isn’t that strong right now so we’ve had to come up with creative ways to get clients to come in. Business does slow down during certain times of the year, such as September and October, but we always manage to keep busy during that time. We offer referral coupons and hold a drawing for a $2,400 gift card. To celebrate the salon’s 24th anniversary, we’re offering 24% off every service and product during the end of October.
Instead of paying for a newspaper ad we figure we should pay our clients instead. We don’t really like to offer coupons, but I’d rather offer a discount on a service than do no service at all.
Angela Saul, employee, Design 1 Salon & Day Spa, Grand Rapids, Mich.