Rising Above the Recession: How to Thrive Without Compromising Your Worth

“Years in the Industry and I Quit!”

“I quit after years in the industry” and “I’m done” are phrases I hear and read repeatedly. I’ve been saddened by how many salon professionals work so hard, feel burnt out, and turn their backs on an industry they are passionate about.

Then, another curve ball: the Government goes and announces another recession!

I’ve spent over thirty years navigating the complexities of the salon industry, and I understand the rewards and challenges of salon ownership. But let me assure you, there’s a way to rise above the chaos and the challenges, pivot your strategies, and thrive without compromising your worth.

I’ve been through many turbulent times in the industry, including recessions and the pandemic, and I know what will happen. We will see many salon owners panicking, a knee-jerk reaction. We’ll see discounts, offers, and anything to get clients in chairs, which ultimately means salon owners underpay and undervalue themselves.

You are worth more than that.

Discounting services may seem like a quick fix to attract clients, but trust me, it’s a slippery slope that can erode your profitability and undervalue your expertise. I’ve witnessed the detrimental impact firsthand, with some salons sacrificing service quality for short-term gains. However, by reframing your mindset and embracing your salon’s unique value proposition, you can break free from the discounting trap and pave the way for sustainable growth.

After a strategic shift away from discounting and towards emphasising my value, I regained control and saw unprecedented growth in my business. My business grew even in a recession! It’s proof that valuing your services and setting firm pricing standards can lead to long-term success. Now I’m taking deposits, have waiting lists, and have raised my prices.

Here are a few of my top tips to help you ditch discounting:

1. Know Your Value:

Take pride in what sets your salon apart and communicate this effectively to your team and clients. Embrace your uniqueness and let it shine through in every aspect of your business.

2. Stand Your Ground:

Resist the temptation to cave to client demands for discounts. By maintaining your pricing integrity, you convey exclusivity and build a loyal customer base that values your expertise.

3. Embrace Creativity:

Explore innovative marketing strategies to promote your services and capitalise on special occasions to engage your clientele. Showcasing your salon’s personality and offerings can attract clients who appreciate your quality.

4. Attract the Right Clients:

Avoid falling into the discounting trap to attract deal-hunters who lack loyalty. Focus on nurturing relationships with clients who recognise and value the quality and expertise your salon provides.

With a shift in mindset and some golden rules, I have created my business so it’s recession-proof, with no discounting and a focus on growth. I love this industry and am super passionate about it, so I will share my entire in-depth strategy, which includes everything I’ve implemented in my salon.

Education is key to future success, and as a salon owner, now is the time to arm yourself with knowledge and invest in yourself and your salon.

Get in touch to find out how I’ve worked successfully through several recessions, and my bottom line has grown—yes, grown!