5 potholes to dodge in your new salon business plan
Intro: Starting a new salon amidst the pandemic may seem like a daunting task, however doing it correctly is the key to success. We bring to you a checklist that you need to keep in mind, while opening a new salon in the new normal.
The salon industry is back in action. Even though it is in the recovery mode, the industry is pacing up quite well. As it’s said, every sunset is followed by a sunrise. Similarly, the new normal has brought in some new opportunities. If you are planning to start out with your salon business, you need to include these following tips in your business blueprint.
Keep social distancing norms in mind while designing the salon
Designing an aesthetic looking salon isn’t a priority for your new business right now. You need to think from a practical point of view. Right now, caring for your customer is much more important than just the look of your salon. Your menus need to be digitized and your reception desk should have a protective shield placed. Waiting rooms need to be designed in a manner that follows the social distancing norms.
Focus on hygiene
Hygiene is key for every business in today’s times. Your salons hygiene will be of top priority to the people that will visit you. Investing in tools that maintain sanitation will go a long way in building a good relationship with your clients. Having a hygienic salon, will incentivize your clients to spread the word to their peers.
Keep a track of your overheads
As we mentioned earlier, the hygiene factor is set to be multiplied. This means there will be some additional overhead cost that will follow. So, you need to be very careful while planning your finances. It is essential because you don’t want to run into the risk of facing financial losses, especially when the salon industry is still in its recovery mode.
Hire the correct staff
You would want to start by hiring a staff whom you can train later. But right now it isn’t the right choice, you need to hire a trained staff. An expert who understands the new norms correctly. Your staff will be your biggest asset in these tough times. Looking at the larger picture, it will give your customer the expected experience. Overall, helping you win brownie points and thereby customers goodwill, which is primary in the current scenario.
Target people in the vicinity
Convincing people to leave their house for grooming can be a daunting task. Most people will not be willing to travel long distances, due to which it is key to focus on your clients in the vicinity. People in the 2kms radius are your perfect clientele in these tough times. You can go old school and send out a leaflet or advertise on local news channels. Reach out to them and make sure they are well versed with the high level of hygiene and sanitation of your salon.
Written by: Payal Upase and Purnima Vasaikar
