Not Another’s Sophia Hilton and Zeba Hairdressing’s Mike DeCanter on making UGC your go-to.

Mike DeCanter, Zeba Hairdressing

In today’s digital age, user-generated content (UGC) has become a powerful tool for hair salons to connect with their audience and attract new clients. Here are five essential tips to nail UGC for your salon…

Capture Everything: Stay True to Your Brand
From showcasing a day in the life of your salon to documenting stunning colour transformations and conducting staff interviews, filming UGC can be both enjoyable and beneficial for your business. Don’t overlook the influence of TikTok trends – they can significantly boost your profile views. Just ensure that your content aligns with your salon brand identity to maintain consistency.

Maximise Your Content: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Every piece of content holds value, so don’t hesitate to repurpose old videos. When filming a service, such as a full transformation, think creatively about how you can maximize its potential. One video can serve multiple purposes, from step-by-step tutorials to product showcases. By maximising your content, you’ll save time and effort while reaching a wider audience.

Embrace Natural Light and Authenticity
In the world of UGC, authenticity reigns supreme. Say goodbye to ring lights and overly filtered photos – opt for natural light and genuine moments instead. TikTok thrives on authentic content that resonates with viewers. Focus on creating engaging videos that showcase the reality of your salon experience, rather than overly staged shots.

Inject Personality into Your Content
Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your videos. Whether it’s through voice-overs, on-screen appearances, or behind-the-scenes glimpses, infusing your content with personality helps viewers connect on a deeper level. People are drawn to authenticity, so let your unique voice and style set your salon apart.

Follow the Viral Formula

• Hook viewers in the first three seconds.
• Tell a story or narrative that keeps your audience hooked.
• Ensure your audio is clear.
• Stay responsive to current trends and incorporate them into
  your content.

By following these tips, you can create compelling content that resonates with your audience and drives new business to your salon.

Sophia Hilton, Not Another

What’s the big mistake hairdressers are making on their Insta? A never-ending parade of the back of heads.

It gets boring because it’s all the same – no personality, just selling hair. We do a lot more than just hair, but you’d never know it from scrolling. The second mistake is over-selling – it’s all, “Hey, I’m great, get your hair done by me”. Spoiler: that doesn’t work. The game’s changed big time, but it seems like the beauty service industry hasn’t caught on. Beauty product brands are all over this, though. They now use real people and influencers to sell their products. But here in the hair service industry we are still selling ourselves.

Why’s everyone buzzing about user-generated content for salons? It’s all about that third-party seal of approval. When your clients are the ones raving about their experience, it builds way more trust –  let your clients do the talking.

Have I got any hot tips for nailing user-generated content? Sure do…

• Write a script that’s short and sweet, showing off your brand through your customer’s eyes.
• Find a client who’s game and ask them to read it out and send you the audio.
• Collect shots around your salon and four shots from their perspective.
• Make that video snappy and keep it under 30 seconds.
• End with a call to action – tell them what to do next.

Want More?

Check out the Hilton Hundred membership with Not Another’s Sophia Hilton. It’s kicking off a new group this September, promising  to be the best one yet because so much is changing!