Build Your Salon With Phil Jackson

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Build Your Salon"! I'm thrilled to share with you some groundbreaking ideas that could revolutionise the way we run our salons. In this episode, we dive into the concept of a universal skin test for all hair and beauty services. Imagine the simplicity and efficiency of having one standardised test that could be used across the entire industry. It would not only reduce bureaucratic hassles but also enhance the customer experience and potentially boost our revenue.   But that's not all. I also tackle the age limits on apprenticeship contracts. It's time we break down these outdated barriers and promote age inclusivity in our industry. By lifting these restrictions, we can offer equal opportunities to all aspiring apprentices, regardless of their age, and enrich our workforce with diverse talents.   I'll be sharing my thoughts on these bold changes and would love to hear your views as well. Together, we can create a brighter future for the salon industry. So tune in, get

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Build Your Salon podcast. I'm thrilled to share some valuable insights with you on transforming first-time salon visitors into loyal clients. In this episode we'll explore how to boost client loyalty and achieve significant business growth.   We kick things off by discussing the importance of goal setting and revisiting both business and personal goals to stay on track throughout the year. By breaking down large objectives into manageable weekly, monthly, and quarterly goals, we ensure continuous progress and alignment. With the mid-year mark upon us, it's the perfect opportunity to reset and refocus on our aspirations, ensuring we maintain momentum all year long.   Next, we dive into practical strategies for creating meaningful connections with clients beyond their first visit. I'll share how to make new clients feel welcomed even before they step into your salon through personalised communication and thoughtful gestures. Acquiring new clients can be costly, so I'll

In this enlightening episode of the podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of delving into the intricacies of salon pricing and the empowerment of freelancers with the exceptional Ruth Lundstrom. With over twenty years of hands-on experience in the beauty industry and as the pioneering mind behind the Freelance Suite, Ruth offered a treasure trove of knowledge that is sure to transform any salon business.   Our conversation journeyed from Ruth's formative years as an apprentice to her challenging yet insightful tenure managing a salon at Regis. She highlighted the significance of strategic pricing, a factor often overlooked yet paramount to long-term success. We tackled the prevalent fears new freelancers face, particularly the trap of underpricing, and discussed how to establish a profitable and sustainable pricing structure.   Furthermore, Ruth and I delved into the bold move of positioning a salon at the high end of the market, the rewards it can reap, and the cruciality of maintaining profit margins. Ruth's

Hello, my salon friends! It's Phil Jackson here, your go-to Queen of Salons, bringing you another episode packed with pearls of wisdom on 'Build Your Salon'. This time, I have a question from the marvellous Roz Ingleby, director of Pamper Me Beauty in Clifton, Bristol. I dive into the world of salon success, discussing how to turn the summer breeze of seasonal walk-ins into the year-round warmth of loyal clientele.   In this episode, I tackle the art of capitalising on your salon's prime location and the strategies that can help convert those one-time summer visitors into repeat customers who can't stay away, no matter the season. I also cover the power of targeted marketing, with a focus on email and social media campaigns, and the pivotal role they play in customer retention.   (Editor's Note: You can find the episode Phil talks about here https://buildyoursalonpodcast.com/blog/108-how-quickly-can-you-train-the-perfect-salon-client)   I also delve into your service menu – it's time to shine a spotlight on t

In this compelling episode of the podcast, I had the distinct honour of welcoming Liz McKeon, an esteemed salon business expert and founder of the International Salon Business School. We delved into a subject that resonates deeply with me – the critical role salon professionals can play in recognising and responding to domestic abuse.   Liz shared her personal journey, which transitioned from retail and salon ownership to a more transformative role where she now empowers salon workers. She introduced us to Shear Haven, an insightful training programme designed to help salon workers detect signs of domestic abuse. This programme is especially close to Liz's heart due to her own experiences, and she spoke about the nuances of training stylists to offer support without overstepping, transforming salons into safe havens.   We also explored the intimate bond between stylists and clients, which often extends beyond the superficial. It's this unique relationship that can make salon professionals the first to notice

Join me, Phil Jackson, as I guide you through another enlightening episode of our Build Your Salon podcast, where this time we're tackling the tricky topic of discounting within the salon industry. Have you ever considered the real impact of those seemingly harmless discounts on your profits? It's a common strategy, but one that could be silently eroding your earnings.   In this episode, I delve into how slashing prices, even by just 10%, can have a significant and sobering effect on a salon with a £100,000 turnover. But fret not, I'm not just here to highlight potential pitfalls; I've also prepared a practical cheat sheet for you. It's designed to help you critically examine your pricing strategies and to ensure the financial resilience and growth of your beloved salon.   As we journey through this episode, I provide you with a hands-on exercise to really get to grips with how discounting affects your bottom line. With a downloadable handout from our website, you can directly apply these insights to your sal

In this insightful episode of the Build Your Salon podcast, I, Phil Jackson, your guide to salon profitability, take you beyond the allure of the latest equipment and revenue numbers to explore what truly constitutes profit in the salon industry. We delve into the hidden costs of salon investments and how to make choices that don't just inflate your turnover but actually boost your bottom line.   Join me as we examine the misleading promises of equipment manufacturers and the importance of understanding your profit margin. I'll reveal the real cost of investment and the often overlooked distinction between revenue and profit when purchasing new equipment, like a laser hair removal machine.   I'll break down the economics of your salon, discussing fixed, variable, and direct costs, and how they impact your profit margin. By the end of this episode, you'll have the financial insights to make smarter investment decisions for your salon's future.   We'll also touch on last week's topic, profit margin, and I'll ch

In this episode, I delve into the essential topic of profit margins, a vital component for any salon business aiming for financial success. We often overlook the importance of understanding profit, sometimes even feeling uneasy discussing it. But here, I lay out the reasons why it's absolutely crucial for not just personal gain but for the resilience and growth of your salon.   As your guide, I'll share some personal stories and updates, including my exciting retreat for salon owners in Tenerife and a sneak peek at an upcoming event, "Your Amazing Year 2025." I'm also eager to hear from you, my listeners, about your own experiences with profit margins, so please do get in touch.   Throughout the episode, I present practical strategies to improve your profit margin, whether it's through increasing efficiency or cutting costs. From considering changes in your team to focusing on more profitable services, I'll help you identify where you can make impactful changes.   Don't worry if all this talk about profit mar

In this enlightening episode, I have the absolute pleasure of engaging in a deep dive with the remarkable Kerry Beavis. We explore the multi-faceted nature of success within the solo therapy business, where prosperity isn't just measured in financial terms but also in the joy and personal fulfilment one derives from their work. From Kerry's humble beginnings as a "nail varnish lid polisher" to her ascent as an award-winning beauty therapist, we unpack the valuable lessons learned along her journey.   As a trained social media manager, I offer insights into the art of personal branding and the strategic pricing that challenges the undervaluation often faced by mobile therapists. We delve into the importance of crafting a distinctive online identity, the clever use of platforms like Instagram, and how these tools can help solo therapists shine in a saturated market.   We also discuss the transformative power of online courses and their role in diversifying income streams for solo entrepreneurs. Whether it's str

In this latest episode of our podcast, I dive into the transformative journey from living a high-flying lifestyle to facing the humbling experience of queuing at a food bank. The narrative often paints life as a sequence of tough times, but I'm here to question that notion and offer a fresh perspective on resilience and opportunity. It's about playing the cards we're dealt with grace and a positive mindset. Join me as I share personal reflections and inspiring stories from my coaching group, illustrating how shifting our mindset can lead to growth and success, even when adversity strikes. I'll also discuss the difference between fact and story, encouraging listeners to appreciate their unique experiences and not get caught up in a universal narrative of struggle. For all my salon owner friends, this episode extends a warm invitation to contribute to our industry feedback segment and to send in your queries for the upcoming Q&A 'Ask Me Anything' episode. Whether you're thriving or facing challenges, your i

Emma Jarvis, a name synonymous with salon success, has carved out an empire from her early dreams of hairdressing, and she joined me to spill the secrets behind her thriving business.   In this episode, we dived deep into the nitty-gritty of salon industry trends, particularly post-Covid. Emma shared her anticipation of a return to employed salon models and how a blend of freelance freedom can be harmoniously mixed within a structured employment setting. It's a fascinating discussion, especially for those who aim to attract and retain the crème de la crème of talent.   We didn't just stop there; Emma and I peeled back the layers of effective business planning and goal-setting. If you're like me and sometimes get caught up in over-planning, you'll appreciate our candid talk on finding that sweet spot between dreaming and doing. Emma's inclusive approach to involving her entire team in the vision of the salon truly resonated with me, and I think you'll find it equally inspiring.   For the budding entrepreneurs

Hello there! I'm Phil Jackson, the queen of salons, and I've got a treat in store for you in this episode of the podcast. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the relentless to-do lists and administrative tasks that come with running a busy salon, then you're in the right place.   In this insightful episode, I respond to Chantelle, a salon owner who's struggling to keep up with her bustling business. She's swamped with marketing, admin, and client communications, and it's eating into her evenings and weekends. My mission? To help her, and you, master salon efficiency.   I've crafted a five-step process that's all about working smarter, not harder. I'll guide you through the art of corralling your tasks into a single, efficient list and show you how to harness technology to lighten your load. I'll share secrets on being ruthlessly selective with your focus, so you can dedicate time to activities that truly move your business forward.   During the episode, I delve into practical tips for reducing the number of li

In this captivating episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the remarkable Donna Clayton, a beauty therapist turned educator who has truly transformed the landscape of beauty industry training. Our conversation was a delightful journey through Donna's career, starting from her early days as a budding hairdresser to becoming a revered name in beauty education.   I fondly recalled our time at Basingstoke College, where Donna's zeal for lifelong learning first took root. She shared the pivotal moments that propelled her from working in salons to pursuing a teaching career, and the fulfilment she found in the dynamic world of education. Donna's insights into the NVQ system were particularly enlightening, as she highlighted the gap between academic preparation and real-world salon readiness.   The episode then took an exciting turn as we delved into the world of solo training academies. I shared my personal experiences with the Academy Creator programme, and we discussed the unique challenges and

In this episode, I'm diving deep into the realm of salon success, where I explore the intricacies of client retention, membership models, and the financial strategies that can elevate your salon from good to great. We kick things off with a candid Q&A session, discussing how the first quarter has been shaping up for salons. Despite a bumpy February, there's a sense of optimism as we see an uptick in March with more high spenders making their way back. I tackle a listener's query about salon memberships, offering insights into crafting offerings that transform good customers into great ones. Tailoring memberships to provide more of what clients already adore, such as an upgraded massage, rather than just slapping on discounts, is the way to go. Pricing strategies are also on the agenda, and I give a shout-out to Chantel, promising an entire episode dedicated to productivity just around the corner. The conversation then shifts to the importance of client retention and why a hands-on approach is crucial unti

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of diving deep into the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the beauty industry with the fabulous Sam Marshall. We peeled back the layers of this multifaceted topic, exploring the transformation that salons are undergoing to become spaces where everyone, irrespective of their background or identity, feels truly welcome. Throughout our conversation, Sam shared her insightful experiences and the progressive steps the industry is taking to cater to a diverse clientele. We touched upon how the industry is moving from a past steeped in exclusivity to one that celebrates openness, with salons mirroring the diversity of those they serve. Particularly, we delved into the nuanced experiences of those who are differently-abled or part of the trans community, highlighting that inclusivity is not merely a noble ideal but also a sound business strategy that broadens clientele and fosters a culture of acceptance. Language in the salon can define the environment. Sam and

Hello there, my salon friends! It's Phil Jackson here, your trusted salon sage, bringing you another episode that's bound to transform your salon business. This time, we're diving deep into the world of salon guarantees and how they can be the golden key to unlocking a world of loyalty, sales, and ultimate client satisfaction. In this episode, titled "Do you do a gretat job?" I share the ins and outs of my own journey in creating a five-point promise for my hair salon. But it's not just about my story; it's a treasure trove of actionable advice that you can tailor to your own salon, whether you're a one-person show or a bustling chain. I kick things off by explaining why salon guarantees can be a game-changer in setting your business apart and soothing those client worries. With examples from my own experience, I'll walk you through how to craft these assurances and communicate them effectively to your patrons. It's not just talk – these promises can boost your retail sales and manage client expectations like

Follow Ollie on instagram here: https://instagram.com/olliagency In this engaging episode of the podcast, I am delighted to welcome Ollie Johns, an incredibly talented self-taught brand and visual identity designer who has made substantial progress in the beauty industry. Our discussion delves deep into the crux of branding and its vital role in distinguishing a salon in the cutthroat marketplace. Ollie demystifies the common misconceptions about branding, underlining that it's much more than just a logo; it encapsulates the core values, market positioning, and the visual narrative of a business. As we explore Ollie's journey to becoming an expert without taking traditional educational paths, we investigate how he utilized online resources to perfect his craft and how this approach can be inspiring for others. His Instagram account, @ollieagency, stands as a proof of his skills and is an excellent resource for anyone seeking daily creative inspiration. During our conversation, Ollie emphasizes the significanc

Hello, my lovely salon enthusiasts! I'm thrilled to bring you an episode that delves into the heart of motivating your salon team and boosting profits with an artful approach to commissions. In this episode, titled "Achieve Salon Commission Excellence with These 5 Insider Tips," I unwrap the secrets behind creating a commission structure that perfectly harmonises with your salon's wage strategy and resonates with your team's ambitions. We're not just crunching numbers here; it's about the people that bring your salon to life. I'll take you through how a zero commission model can breathe new life into your business approach, breaking away from traditional salon management styles. I'm also bubbling with excitement for our upcoming interactive Q&A—where I'll be answering your most pressing questions with insights that sizzle! And there's more! Don't forget to check out our mini-course available on our website. It dives into five dynamic commission structures for a richer understanding of what might work best

To connect with Sue, choose your route through her link tree here: https://linktr.ee/Sue_Davies Hello there! I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode of our podcast, where we dive into the rich tapestry of the salon industry with the remarkable Sue Davis, CEO of Nabuno and the brains behind the Salon Education Journal. In this episode, we delve into the delicate balance between the craft of beauty and the savvy needed to navigate the business side of things, especially in a post-pandemic landscape where self-employment has surged. We start off by tracing Sue's incredible journey from an award-winning salon owner to a luminary in salon education. Our conversation shines a light on the crucial mix of mastering one's craft and understanding business operations – something many professionals overlook to their detriment. As we move on, we unpack the current trend towards low-cost education and the risks it poses, not just to the individual practitioners but to the industry's standards as a whole. Sue an

In our latest episode, I delve into the world of salon business, particularly focusing on how to navigate those quieter months that can often feel a little daunting.  I discuss the power of small business flexibility, such as tweaking opening hours to align with customer patterns for a more efficient operation. I introduce the concept of 'winter opening hours' – a strategic and energy-saving move that could really transform your salon's year-round performance. The episode is also a goldmine for anyone dreaming of opening their own salon or wanting to infuse new life into their current setup. I peel back the layers of my own journey to salon success, revealing how I managed to create a unique space on a tight budget. From choosing affordable yet stylish decor like single stem vases to repurposing vintage furniture, I show you how to craft an inviting atmosphere that your clients will adore. Beyond the aesthetics, I offer frank advice on nurturing new talent within your salon, ensuring that both your team and y