Kathleen Lauer
Owner & Stylist | Inspire Salon
EPISODES
Success & Higher Prices = Navigating Biz Ups & Downs + Great Cust. Experience
Tune in to hear Kathleen share how to build a customer-centric brand and navigate the highs and lows of business !
Key Takeaways
Jumping around between salons is normal at the beginning of your career.
Seek community and mentors when looking for somewhere to work early in your career.
Before venturing into the salon business, it's essential to meticulously plan every aspect, from the location and brand to the mission and financing, considering the impact on all stakeholders.
Kathleen started getting to know customers in what is now called the "pre-consult" before we had the technology to make it easy to accomplish! Trailblazer!
Color services have become very expensive, so making clients feel special and appreciated is imperative. The experience keeps them returning and paying the prices you want to charge.
Prices increased quickly, and customers demanded more than good hair. They are used to having good hair at a lower price, but with new looks, they do not understand the additional cost and time, so they need to be educated. Their experience will make up the difference between the cost they think it should be and what they pay.
Stylists want to work less and charge more. Some are making the same working less, some are pricing themselves out of their market, and others hit a ceiling, so they add hours...the jury is out
Be prepared for downturns, walkouts, and attrition. People will leave you; that is part of the business.
Aspiring SALON OWNERS: Plan out your first few months of rent because the excitement and fun will be disrupted by your bills being due 30 days later
Cancellation policies are best as a warning and for clients who take advantage (which is probably less than 5% of people).
