TOP TIPS FOR WORKPLACE WELLBEING

Wondering how workplace wellbeing boosts performance? Liz McKeon, Beauty Business Expert and Founder, International Salon Business School, UK, highlights how a focus on staff satisfaction can transform client relationships and drive your business success.

Most business owners agree that the key to a salon’s success is a steady stream of happy clients who are willing to pay for services, return regularly, and refer friends and family. Achieving client satisfaction starts with focusing on employee happiness. Happier employees create a better customer experience, which directly impacts revenue. Engaged staff build stronger client relationships and deliver outstanding service.

Here are steps to cultivate a more employee-focused culture:

1. OFFER MEANINGFUL EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT: Employees want to see a clear path for advancement within their workplace. Communicate potential career growth opportunities and how they can achieve them. When staff see a solid career trajectory, they are more motivated to provide excellent service, knowing it aligns with their long-term goals.

2. MAKE TRAINING A CULTURAL NORM: Employees seek to enhance their skills, stay current with trends and advance in their careers. Provide ongoing training and coaching that covers not just technical skills, but also customer service, sales, personal development and wellness. A diverse training programme ensures employees can shine in their customer interactions.

3. SHOW SUPPORT CONTINUOUSLY: Effective management involves ongoing interaction with employees, offering praise, and providing constructive feedback. Managers who foster a supportive work environment contribute to a positive team culture. This support helps employees feel valued and motivated.

4. FOSTER A FUN WORK ENVIRONMENT: A workplace perceived as enjoyable generates enthusiasm and productivity. Employees appreciate a light-hearted atmosphere and are more likely to stay if the work environment is engaging. Ask your staff what would make work more enjoyable and implement those ideas, focusing on day-to-day experiences.

5. PROVIDE REWARDS AND RECOGNITION: Recognising and rewarding top per formers can enhance workplace morale and inspire others. A rewards program that highlights outstanding service and positive client interactions helps create a culture of excellence and camaraderie.

Building a positive culture in a salon requires time and effort from the owner. Implement structured approaches to facilitate desired standards, such as recognising the importance of workplace health and wellbeing. Train managers and team leaders to handle people effectively, ensuring manageable workloads and offering clear objectives and constructive feedback. Encourage open communication and support for employees needing adjustments to manage their health and work.

Provide access to specialist help like counseling or occupational health support as part of HR packages. Tailor policies and practices to fit the unique needs of the salon and its team.

When employees are treated well, they will deliver exceptional service, leading to happy clients who return and refer others. Conversely, unhappy employees can negatively impact the salon’s reputation and client satisfaction.

SALON SUCCESS FORMULA: HAPPY EMPLOYEES = HAPPY CLIENTS