Not every aspiring entrepreneur will succeed, but don’t let that stop you from starting your own business.
Instead, it would help if you focused on why now is the best time to be the boss. For example, you have saved enough money to start, or you’ve figured out how to finance your business.
Another great reason to start a business is if you have expertise in your market. For instance, let’s say you want to open a beauty salon business after being a stylist for many years. Then, you already have an advantage over others who wish to launch the same type of business but may not have your background. Of course, no matter how emotionally and mentally prepared you are to start, there’s still a lot to do before you can say you’re 100% ready. That being said, let’s talk about how you can launch your hair and beauty salon business.
In this article
Create a Business Plan
Although there are websites offering business plan templates for various industries, the important thing is to be clear on what you want.
Are you planning to launch a full-service salon in a busy city? Or perhaps you’re thinking of opening your business to independent stylists who wish to rent a booth at a salon? No matter how you envision your company, a business plan can provide a clear roadmap for growth.
It can also help you get the funding. So be sure to include financial forecasts and market research in your business plan. Other sections to include in your business plan are the products and services you plan to offer, a detailed marketing plan, and your management team.
Obtain the Necessary Licenses
Local laws and regulations for opening a beauty salon may vary from place to place. Still, you can expect certain standards to apply, such as getting a business license. Different states will have different regulations and that’s important if you are for example selling private-label vitamins, different regulations are in place to test the product so it can be sold to the consumer.
Lastly, your salon’s cosmetologists should always have their licenses on hand, as well as any certifications they might have.
Market Your Beauty Salon Business
Even before officially opening your salon, it helps to study the current strategies for marketing salons online. Remember, it will be hard for your business to survive only from walk-in clients. That’s why you have to have a solid online presence. If you have different beauty products to offer besides your hair and beauty salon services, promote them everywhere.
Take advantage of social media channels and email marketing. Explore going the traditional route (e.g., flyers, brochures, pamphlets, etc.). Don’t forget, any minute you’re not building your brand is a minute wasted.
Build Your Network
Networking is a must for any business. For hair and beauty salons, it’s even more crucial. After all, the more extensive your network, the better you can grow your client base.
The good news is networking doesn’t have to be a chore. You can start building your network by getting to know your neighbors. If you can, offer them discounts, or prepare goodie bags with product samples.
These may be small things, but some or even all of them might encourage their clients to visit your salon. Other ways to grow your network include reaching out to family, friends, and colleagues, attending local business owners’ association meetings, volunteering, or donating your services.
Partner With the Right Distributors or Suppliers
Reach out to different suppliers to provide your salon with the best hair and beauty products. Of course, “the best” here is subjective. It will depend on your budget and your salon’s branding.
If you can’t find the right supplier, consider partnering with a manufacturing company that can make your shampoo, conditioner, and other hair and beauty products to your specifications. Another option is to white-label products.
As for distribution, some companies offer both sales and fulfillment services. So if your goal is not just to open a beauty salon but to have your hair and beauty products used by other salons, these companies can help you.
Choose the Right Location
Even if you’re an excellent stylist, you can’t expect clients to follow you if your salon is too far or too inconvenient to visit. If you choose the right location, though, not only will most of your clients stay with you, but you’ll also be able to build a larger clientele.
However, there’s one thing you need to keep in mind. More space doesn’t always mean more income. You have to factor in the rent costs, heating and cooling expenses, parking options, and other upgrades (e.g., plumbing or electrical work). So before you sign any lease, don’t forget to crunch the numbers twice or more.
Make Staffing a Priority
Everyone wants the best talents for their beauty or hair salon. Finding them, however, can be challenging. To overcome this, know what you want in an employee. From experience to communications skills, work ethic, and so on, list them down before posting job ads. Be detailed when writing job descriptions, and don’t hesitate to ask your colleagues for recommendations.
You can also attend events at cosmetology schools to scout fresh talent. Then when you have a list of candidates, prepare for interviews. You can always consider a trial hiring period to see which applicants do best at cutting hair, doing makeup, etc.
Aim to Satisfy Your Clients
Some potential clients might feel intimidated if they see the cost of beauty treatments offered by your salon. While charging what you’re worth is essential, it’s easier to grow your business if you try to accommodate all types of clients.
Consider employing junior stylists for those who might not be able to afford your rates. You can also offer discounted rates to seniors, students, and kids, especially on holidays and slow days.
Are You Ready to Make People Look Their Best?
Now that you know some of the best tips for opening a beauty salon business, what are you waiting for? Who knows, your salon or its products might be the next big thing in a few years.
If you feel this isn’t the right time or if you still need more advice on starting a business, you can check out our other posts.
