What we learned at #SalonSmartLive 2021
Salon Smart went virtual once more, delivering an inspiring live streamed business-building experience…
We were all ready for our close ups as Salon Smart LIVE returned for 2021 to inspire and connect salon owners and hairdressers across the UK once again. We had such fun last year that we were only too ready for Salon Smart to get virtual again, delivering an inspiring live experience streamed onto devices across the nation. Flash polls! Probing questions! You had the chance to get truly interactive as the day unfolded – you might not have been with us in the flesh, but your voices were heard!
Being forced to close your business was brutal, chaotic, and for many it spelled the end – but those watching have salons that have survived. That’s testament to the strength of their business. But what are the challenges? Customers might be behaving differently; over the past year they have done everything online, and a few will believe they are capable of cutting and colouring their own hair now. The struggle lies with getting them in and spending again. And for those working from home still, the focus is on shopping local. They’re looking for quirky, unique and different salons that give back to their community.
And have you also noticed clients checking labels more, asking more questions about recycling and ingredients? Sustainability now needs to be an essential part of your business. Hairdressing is an enormous waste generator but we can, and must, drive this down.
After the year we’ve had, we can’t leave anything to chance – bin the coffee-stained appointment book and get your business online if you haven’t already. It will give you an insight you won’t have been able to access before, and you need to be forensic about your business, what you’re bringing in, what your charging, your clients’ journeys…
There are lots of challenges ahead, yes, but also plenty of opportunities – and that’s why we had a stellar line-up of speakers and panel members. All responsibly social distanced and with the necessary PPE in place where required, the Salon Smart LIVE studio played host to an incredible roster of guests, with the brand new medley of Masterclasses seeing brilliant business and creative experts from our partners and associate sponsors sharing the goods in whip-smart 20 minutes sessions on essential subjects such as how to put the best of yourself and your business on social media, how to incorporate innovation into your colour services, safeguarding your revenues, how we work as individuals in team environments and how to start out and stay ahead as the future approaches…
Lots to sink your teeth into, no doubt – but what did we learn from Salon Smart Live 2021? Well, let’s delve deeper…
SALON SMART LIVE 2021: THE STATS
How much is green thinking driving important decisions in your business?
100% – Yes we’re starting to think that way
How long will it take for your business to return to pre-lockdown levels?
33% – We’re already there!
6% – 3 months
11% – 6 months
44% – 12 months
6% – 2 years or more
How are clients spending now they’re back in the chair?
40% – £££ They’re splurging!
60% – ££ They’re spending the same
£ – They’re saving
Do you offer online booking?
50% – Yes
50% – No