Posted by Jenny
As we step into September, it feels like we’re turning over a new leaf. For salon owners, this month is way to a fresh start, much like a new year. It’s a time to reflect on the summer months, reset our goals, and craft a fool-proof plan to carry our businesses through to 2026. September is synonymous with new beginnings, new goals, and a post-holiday refresh. It’s an opportunity to get back into routine and prepare for the busiest time of the year – the run-up to Christmas.
September is the perfect time to take stock of your salon’s performance over the summer. Reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. Use this reflection to set clear, actionable goals for the coming months. Consider creating a roadmap that outlines your objectives for the rest of the year and into 2026. This plan should include strategies for increasing client retention, boosting team motivation, and maximising revenue from every service and client interaction.
An essential part of planning is involving your team in the goal-setting process. Ask them, “What are your goals for the rest of the year? What would you like to achieve before the year is out?” This not only empowers them but also aligns their personal ambitions with the salon’s objectives.
As the season changes, so do our clients’ needs. It’s essential to adjust your offerings to reflect the shift from summer to autumn. Encourage your clients to update their skincare routines to combat the cooler weather. Introduce new colour palettes for hair that align with autumn trends. Ask yourself, “Have you adjusted your visual in-salon inspiration pictures for the new season?” Updating these visuals can entice clients to try something new and seasonal.
Client retention is key to a successful salon business. Use September as an opportunity to re-engage with your clients. Send personalised messages or emails to clients who haven’t visited in a while, offering them a special discount or promotion. Implement a loyalty programme to reward regular clients and encourage repeat visits. Remember, a satisfied client is more likely to recommend your services to others, expanding your client base through word-of-mouth.
To make the most of every bill, service, and client interaction, consider offering package deals or upselling additional services. For example, if a client comes in for a haircut, suggest a conditioning treatment or a new styling product. Train your team to identify opportunities to enhance the client’s experience while increasing the overall spend. Ask yourself, “Does your current online bookings platform support your business by offering courses, packages, service upsells, and showcasing your retail?” Ensuring your platform is robust can significantly enhance your revenue streams and client experience.
Thank you Charlotte, our first Salon success meeting has given me a deeper insight to what SalonIQ offers and how we can start putting new practices into place to maximise the software to its full potential, and hopefully boost our clientele and profits further. 🙌🏻🙌🏻 – Michele Evans
Call a member of our team today on 01892 280 123