Why “Build It and They Will Come” Is Not a Foolproof Strategy for Starting and Growing a Business
Why “Build It and They Will Come” Is Not a Foolproof Strategy for Starting and Growing a Business with Antony Whitaker
“Build it and they will come” is a line from the 1989 movie ‘Field of Dreams’.
Unfortunately, it is a strategy that many salon owners use when opening up a new salon only to find that Hollywood movies don’t necessarily reflect business reality.
In today's podcast episode, I am answering two questions from our listeners. In answering their questions I will be explaining why “build it and they will come” is not an effective strategy for starting and growing a business.
The first question is from Sandy in Birmingham who asks…
“I opened my salon 4 years ago and I am finding it hard to grow. It's a beautiful space to work in, I have 3 staff members, [two stylists and an assistant] I'm great at doing hair, I'm always fully booked and I generate most of the revenue myself working 5 ½ days a week behind the chair. But despite that the business just won't grow so what should I do?”
The second question is from Steve in Florida who asks…
“I heard you say on one of your YouTube videos that salon owners shouldn’t employ a manager. So, can you talk about why I shouldn’t employ a manager on your podcast? Because honestly I can’t do this by myself, so I need a manager to help me”.
Listen to this week's episode to hear my answers!
In this Episode:
[01:58] A listener question from Sandy in Birmingham.
[03:24] Two of the biggest false expectations that hairdressers have of themselves and their businesses.
[07:03] The four components in your business that you need to have a clear vision for.
[09:02] Questions to ask yourself when developing the vision for the marketing element of your business.
[12:15] Advice for clarifying your financial vision.
[15:11] Factors to consider when you are developing the product and services vision for your salon.
[17:19] How to approach the creation of a vision for your team.
[21:18] The difference between leading from the front and being a manager.
[22:19] A listener question from Steve in Florida.
[23:09] Why you, as a founder, need to take responsibility for the problems that arise in your business.
[24:00] My thoughts on when you should and shouldn’t consider hiring a manager.
[26:49] How the salon industry has evolved (and continues to evolve).
[28:02] Benefits of the Salon Management Checklist that I have put together for you.
[29:19] What you can expect from the free online Salon Management masterclass taking place on May 16th.
Thanks so much for joining me this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated!
They do matter in the rankings of the show and help other people find my podcast.
I also love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Just click here to review, scroll to the bottom, tap “Ratings and Reviews” tap to rate with 5 stars and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you for your support!
Until next time!
Antony
Links and Resources:
Grow My Salon Business
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Free Download
I have put together a freebie just for you! The Salon Management Checklist allows you to mark off what you currently have in place in your business so that you can identify where there are opportunities for you to improve.
