Your daily operational tasks will include scheduling appointments, collecting payments, ordering products, managing staff, and ensuring that all customers receive exceptional service and expert advice on hair care, products, and styles.
Let’s take a look at some of the ins and outs of running a successful barbershop.
Buckling down
Even though this is your standard retail services trade, this isn’t your typical 9–5 industry, so be prepared to work evenings and on weekends.
Evaluate your competition and set your prices accordingly. Salon owners can usually expect to have a net profit of 11–15%, but this figure will vary depending on the decisions you make as the owner.
Cropped, buzzed, or faded?
The male grooming industry continues to thrive, and with it comes a multitude of trends to incorporate in the offerings of your own barber shop. Just a few include:
- Extra man-scaping: In addition to traditional haircuts and consultations, offer extra services such as straight razor shaves; complimentary neck and beard trims; beard sculpts; facial, nose, and ear hair removal; and even various skin treatments.
- Gift cards: Generate additional income by offering gift cards as a way to corral more cash during prime gift-giving seasons like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day.
- Added services: Offer beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) to your patrons as they’re getting their hair cut and styled. Also, be sure to provide added conveniences like online booking, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary food and drinks to add value to your store.
Building and maintaining a quality shop
High-quality equipment, tools, and supplies create an excellent work environment that results in fantastic styling and exceptional customer experiences.
Keep in mind, your reception area will be the first thing your customers see, so be sure to provide a comfortable and inviting environment.
Ensure you’re upholding your store’s image and reputation by overseeing daily maintenance like sweeping up hair clippings, washing and folding towels, vacuuming, taking out the trash, and dusting the counters.
Your shop should look and smell fresh and clean and be in pristine condition at all times of the day.
Creating a buzz
How you market your barber shop is crucial to its future growth. Take advantage of these effective marketing tools:
- Website: A 2017 survey found that 97% of consumers used the internet to find a local business. So, it’s essential that your business has a user-friendly website that is accessible on mobile and optimised for search engines. If it’s been a while since you have taken a look at your website, take a look at some of your competitors to see how you can go above and beyond with your online presence.
- Social media: Determine your target customer and post frequently on multiple social platforms to increase brand awareness. Showcase various haircuts and styles, and share new deals, offers and products. Remember to show how welcoming and inviting your barber shop can be!
- Reviews: Barber shops tend to receive numerous reviews that prospective clients will be reading when deciding whether to try out a new place. So, it’s imperative that you monitor and respond to all reviews—both positive and negative.
- Customer reward plans: Create a loyalty program to reward patrons with a free service after a certain number of visits. Offer package deals for special events like birthdays, weddings, or graduations; and give discounts for seniors, students, or veterans. Being creative and consistent in your marketing approach will help you establish a positive reputation and achieve consistent growth.
Cutting through the challenges
The barber shop industry is a highly competitive market. Be sure to keep a close eye on your competitors as well as the ever-changing trends within the industry.
Finally, keep in mind that it’s never too early to prepare your barber shop for a smooth and successful exit—even if you’re not planning on selling any time soon. By planning your exit, you can build and strong and reputable business. Visit here to see the wide range of opportunities in all sectors in Australia.
