Industry Trends We Have Our Eye On

Charging Hourly 

Charging for your time can be a total game-changer, and it has popped up more and more within our industry. Charging hourly often feels more straightforward for clients who don't understand all treatments, options, and processes. It allows the stylist to take the reigns making services more thorough. No more pleading with someone to add on a treatment you KNOW their hair needs, it is now part of that hourly charge, and you can keep on moving. It also offers a more predictable income for both salons and stylists. By simply looking at the books, it will be clear exactly how much you will be making. 

Hybrid Salon Models 

It has been no secret that independent stylists and salon suites have been an increasingly popular career choice more many individuals. Because of this, many salons have adopted a hybrid model with some commission stylists and some booth rent stylists. E+L (read the store HERE) moved to a hybrid model recently. They have seen this change as a way to support stylists in their career growth. They would rather honor their goals than lose them to another opportunity. The key to doing this well is to ensure that your salon culture is seamless between commission and booth rent stylists by offering exciting education and team bonding experiences that both groups can enjoy! Many salons also choose to have stylists start commission and move to booth rent as they grow their clientele. One word of caution if you decide to make this change: make sure your booth rent stylists are ready to take on booking and customer service details. Client experiences should be consistent between commission and booth rent stylists. Some extra customer service training is never a bad idea! 

Closed on Saturdays 

Are Saturdays necessary for a profitable business? Some salons have come to realize that they may not be. The payoff of flexible schedules and sustainable careers is an excellent asset to our industry. The past year has shown us the importance of a work-life balance, and stylists are no exception! Allowing your team to spend more time with loved ones or doing things they are passionate about can be a great asset to your salon's culture and morale. A trend in availability doesn't need to be 'cut and dry.' For example, if your salon thrives in the wedding industry, consider only accepting wedding parties Saturdays, any Saturdays without weddings, your team has off. You can also start small by choosing to be open only one or two Saturdays a month.