Inspiring Salon Professionals

Please note that this was a live recording and there are a few sound glitches here and there.

Today, we dive into The Meta Disconnect and how salon business owner can rethink their marketing strategies beyond social media. With a panel of industry experts including Ryan Power, Helen Ward, Theresa Foddering, and Sam Blake, we tackle the challenges posed by recent shifts in Meta's policies that could impact how we connect with clients. From the dangers of placing too much reliance on platforms we don't control, to the vital importance of building direct relationships with our clients through email lists and traditional marketing tactics, we explore a range of approaches that may bring better long term results. Each panelist brings their own perspective, emphasising the need for sustainable practices that keep our businesses thriving in a noisy marketplace. Join us as we discuss a variety of ideas and inspire you to take steps towards reimagining how you market your business on and offline.

The world of salon marketing is evolving, and in this live episode of Inspiring Salon Professionals, host Sue Davies and a panel of industry experts delve into the implications of the 'Meta Disconnect'—a phenomenon emerging from recent changes in social media platforms that could significantly affect how salons promote themselves. Featured on the panel are Ryan Power of Salonology, Helen Ward from The Hair & Beauty Directory, Theresa Foddering - The Naildresser, and Sam Blake - The Safer Salon Geek, who each bring their own individual perspectives to the conversation.

As the discussion unfolds, the panel addresses the challenges salon owners face in a landscape where social media's reliability is increasingly questioned. With recent policy shifts from Meta that have raised concerns about content moderation and the safety of marginalised voices, the experts emphasise the urgency for salons to rethink their marketing strategies. Ryan Power warns against the dangers of building a business solely on social media, likening it to walking a tightrope without a safety net. The panelists propose a multi-faceted approach to marketing that includes leveraging email communications, engaging with local communities, and exploring offline promotional avenues.

Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their current marketing practices and consider how they can diversify their outreach efforts. The conversation highlights the importance of connecting authentically with clients and suggests practical steps such as collaborations with local businesses, using directories, and maximising the potential of a healthy website. By shifting the focus back to foundational marketing strategies, salon owners can ensure their businesses remain resilient and adaptable in an ever-changing digital landscape. This episode is a call to action for salon professionals to reclaim their marketing power beyond the confines of social media.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasises the need to diversify marketing strategies beyond social media to protect your salon's visibility and client connection.
• Panelists highlight that building a business solely on social media is risky due to potential platform changes and account issues.
• Utilising email marketing and direct communication methods can create a more secure and reliable client engagement strategy.
• The conversation stresses the importance of local networking and collaborations to enhance business visibility and client loyalty.
• Experts agree that traditional marketing methods, like leaflet drops, still hold value in attracting clients within your local area.
• The discussion touches on the need for salon professionals to understand and utilise platforms like Google Business to improve search visibility.

Links referenced in this episode:

Kerry Beavis joins us today to dive deep into the world of self-care, Pilates, and the journey of burnout recovery. At the heart of our conversation is the vital importance of prioritising self-care as a non-negotiable aspect of life, especially for us in the demanding salon and wellness industries. Kerry shares her own experiences, from navigating the ups and downs of her 20+ year beauty career to embracing the holistic practices that have allowed her to empower others. We discuss how small, intentional rituals can transform our lives and businesses, ultimately leading to greater balance and fulfilment.

Join us as we explore the transformative power of self-awareness, movement, and nurturing our inner selves, reminding us that taking care of ourselves is the first step toward helping others thrive.

This is a heartfelt chat about self-care, Pilates, and the importance of avoiding burnout in the hectic beauty industry. Kerry has navigated her way through both triumphs and challenges, from winning Professional Beauty Therapist of the Year back in 2016 to mentoring others in the wellness field. In our conversation, we dive deep into the transformative power of self-care, emphasising that it should be routine for everyone.

We reflect on our personal journeys, discussing the importance of recognising the signs of burnout and the necessity of taking time to recharge. Whether it’s through Pilates, meditation, or simply allowing ourselves moments of peace, Kerry's message is clear: prioritise your well-being to thrive not just in business but in life itself.

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Body confidence and inclusion are more than just buzzwords in the salon industry; they are essential elements that shape the experiences of everyone involved, from clients to professionals. In this episode, I sit down with Amy Bates, a body confidence coach and passionate advocate for inclusivity, to explore how fostering a welcoming and body-positive environment can significantly impact salons. We delve into the importance of representation and the need for salon owners and teams to actively create spaces where all individuals feel valued and empowered, regardless of their shape, size, or background. Amy shares her journey and insights on how understanding body image issues affects not only the clients but also the professionals working in the industry. Tune in as we discuss actionable strategies that salon owners can implement to cultivate a more inclusive atmosphere, ultimately enhancing the overall client experience and team dynamics.

Diving deep into the realms of body confidence and inclusion within the salon industry, Amy Bates brings a fresh perspective that challenges the status quo. We explore how the salon environment can either bolster or undermine a client's self-esteem, with Amy sharing her journey from police work to becoming a body confidence coach. Her insights reveal the profound impact that inclusivity can have, not just on clients but also on salon professionals and owners. The conversation touches on the necessity of creating spaces where all body types are celebrated and accepted, emphasising that the salon should be a sanctuary for everyone, regardless of size, shape, or background. We reflect on the real-world implications of body image issues in the salon and how professionals can better support their clients in navigating these challenges. This episode underlines the importance of empathy, understanding, and the need for salon owners to adopt inclusive practices to foster a welcoming atmosphere.

Much of the conversation revolves around Amy's new book, Beauty & The Bullsh*t where she gives background on this important subject as well as actionable chapters to help readers make changes in their world.

Takeaways:

• Creating an inclusive salon environment fosters body confidence among team members and clients alike, directly enhancing the overall experience.
• Understanding the nuances of body image and diversity in the salon industry can significantly improve client relationships and retention rates.
• Professionals in the beauty industry must recognise their own biases and how they can impact the mental well-being of both clients and colleagues.
• Using proper inclusive language and imagery in marketing can help clients feel welcome and represented, leading to a more loyal customer base.
• Building a culture of openness around body positivity and mental health issues not only strengthens the team but also creates a safer space for clients.
• Incorporating training on body confidence and inclusion as part of professional development can elevate service standards and improve staff morale.

Maximising your salon's visibility online is a necessary part of business ownership, and in this episode, we dive deep into how to leverage Google Business Profile and your Apple Business Showcase to make that happen. As a salon business, it’s an essential part of your client journey to ensure potential clients can easily find you, and these platforms are game changers for this task. We explore how setting up these profiles not only boosts your local SEO but also enhances your credibility and engagement with clients, all at no cost. I’ll walk you through the steps to get started, share insights on optimising your listings, and highlight the importance of keeping your information fresh and relevant. Tune in to discover strategies that can transform your online presence and attract more clients to your salon.

Sue Davies provides a wealth of insights into maximising online visibility for salon businesses through Google Business Profile and Apple Business Connect and the Apple Business Showcase. The episode highlights the importance of these platforms in the digital marketplace, where potential clients are primarily searching for services through Google or Apple Maps. Sue stresses that if a salon is not listed or listed but not optimised on these platforms, they are likely to miss out on numerous opportunities, as clients will gravitate towards competitors who are more visible online or have completed and are maintaining this shop window.

Sue gives an in-depth analysis of Google Business Profile - formerly known as Google My Business - and breaks down its functionalities. She explains how it serves as a vital tool for local SEO, enhancing a salon's online presence by providing essential information such as contact details, operating hours, and customer reviews. Sue shares specific strategies for optimising these listings, including the significance of using high-quality images and creating a welcoming business description that resonates with potential clients. The ease of interaction that the platform offers, such as booking appointments directly from the profile, is highlighted as a major advantage.

Transitioning to Apple Business Connect/Showcase, Sue reveals the significance of being present on this platform as well. With a large number of clients using Apple devices, having a presence on Apple Maps can significantly boost business visibility. Sue discusses the similarities and differences between the two platforms, encouraging salon owners to utilise both to extend their reach. She concludes the episode with a sneak peek into her upcoming course aimed at helping salon business owners navigate these digital tools effectively, underscoring that this knowledge is essential for anyone wanting to thrive in the salon industry today.

Takeaways:

• Utilising Google Business Profile effectively can significantly enhance your salon's online visibility and client engagement.
• Apple Business Connect & Showcase offers a new opportunity for salons to reach clients on Apple Maps and increase trustworthiness.
• Both Google and Apple platforms provide free tools that can help attract warm clients who are already interested in your services.
• Regularly updating your business profiles with fresh content is crucial for maintaining an active online presence and credibility.
• SEO strategies are important in optimising your profiles and relevant keywords will help potential clients find your salon first.
• Being listed on both Google and Apple platforms increases your chances of being discovered by clients searching for your services.

Links referenced in this episode:

Data protection and UK GDPR compliance is an important but often misunderstood topic in our industry, affecting every salon professional and owner. Today, we dive into the complex world of the GDPR law, with Robin Banks from Adavista, who specialises in helping businesses navigate these regulations with confidence. We discuss the changes that came into effect back in 2018 and the ongoing challenges solo & salon business owners face in ensuring compliance while managing client information. From understanding ICO registration to handling client data properly, this episode aims to demystify the GDPR minefield and provide actionable insights. We also explore the nuances of data portability and the responsibilities and challenges that may come with using third-party booking systems, ensuring you're well-equipped to protect your business and your clients. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will empower you to embrace compliance without fear. Grab a notepad and pen - you may need one!

Data protection and compliance can feel like a labyrinth, especially for salon pros navigating the subject of GDPR. This episode features Robyn Banks, a GDPR expert, who simplifies the regulations affecting businesses of all sizes, whether you're running a solo side hustle or managing a multi-location salon. We explore the evolution of data protection laws, focusing on the significant changes that came with GDPR in 2018, and the ongoing implications for how client data is handled. Robyn clarifies essential considerations such as data portability and how your booking system has to enable the movement of your client data, the necessity for ICO registration, and the importance of privacy notices, all while ensuring that the conversation remains approachable and devoid of legal jargon. By the end of our discussion, listeners will be equipped with practical strategies for ensuring compliance, safeguarding client trust, and avoiding the pitfalls that can arise from mishandling personal data.

In this informative episode, we tackle the often-overlooked aspects of data protection in the beauty and wellness industry. Robyn emphasises the responsibilities salon owners have when collecting and processing personal data, highlighting the need for clear communication with clients regarding their rights. We also discuss the important role of documentation, from subject access requests to the importance of keeping accurate records of client interactions. Robyn's insights serve as a valuable reminder that data protection is not just a legal obligation but a fundamental component of maintaining a professional and trustworthy business. For salon professionals unsure of their compliance status, this episode provides a wealth of information and practical advice to help them navigate the complexities of GDPR with confidence.

As we explore the nuances of GDPR, Robyn offers a wealth of knowledge that is both practical and essential for salon professionals. This episode sheds light on the critical areas of data portability and the rights clients have regarding their personal information. Robyn discusses the importance of maintaining compliance not only to avoid fines but also to maintain a trusting relationship with clients. We delve into the specifics of how to implement GDPR regulations effectively, including the necessity of privacy notices and the potential pitfalls of neglecting data protection duties. The conversation is designed to empower salon owners and professionals, equipping them to handle client data responsibly. With clear explanations and actionable steps, listeners will leave with a solid understanding of how to integrate GDPR into their business practices without feeling overwhelmed.

Takeaways:

• Understanding GDPR is crucial for every business, regardless of size or nature, as it applies universally to personal data handling.
• Simultaneous compliance with GDPR and effective data management means implementing clear privacy notices and protocols for client data protection.
• Data portability allows clients to request their information from one business to another, emphasising the need for seamless data transfer processes and this also relates to your data moving between booking system suppliers.
• Businesses must register with the ICO within six months of operation, regardless of whether they are side hustle, a sole trader or a larger enterprise.
• Maintaining an Accountability document is necessary for businesses to outline their data protection measures and demonstrate compliance with GDPR requirements.
• AI tools can streamline data management but must be used cautiously to ensure compliance with privacy laws and intellectual property rights.

Links referenced in this episode: