5 Steps for Building Your New Salon Into a Successful Business

You did it—you're opening your own salon! Getting ready for your first day can be nerve-wracking, especially if you don't even have any clients lined up or any idea how to get them. Don't worry; these five tips will help you get your salon off the ground, attract new clients, and start building a sustainable business from day one.

Find a Niche

Every brand needs its own identity to stand out, and your niche will have a major influence on the type of customers you attract. Knowing your salon niche is fundamental to your branding. It will impact everything from the type of decor you choose to the way you market online.

Whether it's a family-friendly salon or a blonds-only business, find what you're best at, what you envision yourself doing in the future and choose a focus that will immediately distinguish you from your competitors.

Use Social Media

Instagram is the most popular social media platform for small businesses right now, and it has a massive hair and beauty community that you can tap into. Geotagging your photos can help clients in your area find your salon, and using the most popular tags will attract more attention. Building an online presence while targeting local clients is the key to new business marketing success.

Create a Good Set Up

One of the biggest and most important purchases you make when you start will be the salon equipment. You want to create a salon that fits with your brand and helps your stylists do their best everyday. Don’t clutter up the place, but ensure that your stylists have all the tools, counter, equipment, and shelfspace that they need. When your stylists can do their jobs comfortably and well, you’ll get return clients.

Don't Go Overboard With High-End Products

Having a massive assortment of expensive hair products is not only costly but can also be unnecessary. Work with just one to three brands you can swear by in the beginning. This will give clients a greater sense of exclusivity when they come to you. It will also help them make better choices when shopping.

Hire Staff That Create the Ideal Atmosphere

Your salon staff set the stage for your entire business. You don't want anyone to feel like they've entered a hospital ward when they step into your studio. Rather than sterile and somber, hire people who instantly brighten up your place and make people feel welcomed and excited about getting their hair done.

Your stylists are one of the biggest factors that influence which clients become regulars. Make sure that they all embody the personality you want your business to exude.

Follow these pointers to give your new salon the best chance at getting off the ground. It takes time to grow any business, so be patient as you work toward creating the type of studio you've always dreamed of working in.