UNLOCKING SALON GROWTH

Effective time management is key to business growth. Liz McKeon, Business Expert and Founder, International Salon Business School, UK, highlights the top 10 time management tips for an improved bottom line.

Effective time management is crucial for the growth trajectory of a salon business everywhere, but more so in India. It ensures efficient operations, maximises productivity and enhances customer satisfaction. Good time management allows salon managers to focus on strategic planning, marketing and training. In today’s competitive world, these efficiencies differentiate successful salons from others, leading to sustained growth.

Here are top 10 time management tips for salon managers:

1. PLANNING

Time spent planning is not wastedtake time to make time. A little effort in understanding tasks and planning their execution yields significant returns. Training and coaching staff may seem like interruptions, but they pay off in the long run.

2. MAKING LISTS

Creating lists is essential for planning your day effectively, taking into account workload and priorities. These lists can be taskspecific or ongoing, regularly revisited and updated as needed.

3. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

When managers struggle with time management, effective communication often suffers. Instead of listening, understanding and explaining, their focus on workload can lead to misunderstandings. Effective management hinges on communication, hence, regularly ensure you’re communicating well with your team.

4. TAKE BREAKS

Skipping breaks under heavy workload is tempting but counterproductive, impairing concentration and reducing efficiency. Managers, setting examples for staff, must prioritise breaks to avoid implying lack of commitment.

5. MANAGE YOUR EMAILS

A salon manager’s email inbox is typically bustling with various messages requiring attention. Allocate dedicated time each day to respond to emails and engage in social media activity.

6. PREPARE TO DELEGATE

Just because you are capable of doing something does not mean you should. When feeling pressured, consider delegating tasks, even those you enjoy.

7. TRAINING THE STAFF

Effective delegation empowers staff to work independently and confidently, reducing the need for constant assistance. Ensuring proper training and resources for all enhances overall efficiency and reduces demands on your time.

8. BE APPROACHABLE

If all else fails, maintain the appearance of effective time management to your team, even if you’re struggling. It’s crucial for employees to feel comfortable seeking help and guidance from you. If you seem too busy to approach, you may miss important issues. Stay openminded and flexible in handling interruptions.

9. DEALING WITH INTERRUPTIONS 

The temptation is often to react immediately to all issues, but disrupting your workday may not be worthwhile.

If interruptions are frustrating, consider implementing a time-sensitive open/shut door policy for addressing issues. Additionally, learn polite conversation closers to effectively end prolonged discussions.

10. HANDLING THE PRESSURE

A bit of pressure can be motivating, driving you to organise and work harder. However, if your workload becomes unmanageable, take steps to prevent burnout.

Effective time management is pivotal for salon managers to ensure smooth operations, high productivity and customer satisfaction. Implementing these strategies can lead to sustained growth and a competitive edge in the salon industry..

PBHJ