Management
Episode 292
22 April 2025
This week, I dive into what makes a truly effective salon manager in today's rapidly changing business landscape.
I've titled this episode “The 9 Traits of a Modern Salon Manager”, and I've consciously used the word ‘Modern' because, like everything else in life and business, what worked yesterday may not work so well today.
I explore the nine essential traits that modern salon leaders need to cultivate to build successful teams, create thriving businesses, and adapt to the evolving demands of our industry. While certain principles remain timeless, other elements of management and leadership become more or less important over time.
Whether you're a salon owner looking to strengthen your leadership skills or a stylist with ambitions of salon management, this episode offers practical insights to help you develop your management approach.
And, If you're serious about elevating your management skills, be sure to join me on my FREE Masterclass: The 4 Essential Lessons in Salon Management – Save your seat here
IN THIS EPISODE:
[2:00] The importance of your role as a manager and leader
[2:52] Why the “hands-off” management approach often fails
[4:55] Trait 1: Having a clear vision for the future
[5:42] Trait 2: Understanding that leadership is about developing people
[6:23] Trait 3: Building relationships and showing empathy
[7:07] Trait 4: Offering flexibility in the workplace
[8:23] Trait 5: Driving productivity through goal-setting and accountability
[9:35] Trait 6: Embracing technology in salon management
[10:01] Trait 7: Creating and protecting your salon's culture
[10:51] Trait 8: Prioritising effective communication
[11:36] Trait 9: Embracing and adapting to change
[11:57] Final thoughts on continuous learning as a manager
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
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Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
FREE Masterclass: 4 Essential Lessons in Salon Management – Click here to save your seat
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Episode 291
15 April 2025
One of the things that I constantly see in industry Facebook groups is how badly employees are paid, whether we’re talking about apprentices, assistants or stylists…
And that isn’t country specific, it’s a general trend of people feeling they’re hard done by to the point of being exploited…
But what I literally never see are comments about “How bad the productivity levels of the average hairdresser are.”
And obviously that's part of the problem, because what you earn is always going to be a reflection of what you produce.
Join me as I share 15 key traits that set high-earning stylists apart and discover how you can transform your income without thinking you have to go self-employed or change salons.
If you're ready to stop blaming and start earning, this episode is your roadmap to financial success in the salon industry.
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Download the Guide: 15 Points for Financial Success as an employed stylist.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:55] Commitment to a positive outlook despite industry challenges
[01:20] Observations about compensation complaints in industry Facebook groups
[02:07] The connection between productivity and earnings in salons
[02:56] Addressing the stylist's mindset about money and compensation
[03:39] The reality of salon economics and owner struggles
[05:11] Introducing the concept: “You don't get what you want, you get who you are”
[06:01] Questions for stylists to assess their own productivity
[07:04] Celebrating successful stylists in the industry
[07:49] Introduction to “The Half Million Dollar Club” stylists
[08:46] Discussion of stylists earning $200-250K annually behind the chair
[10:15] Addressing the blame mentality and shifting to personal responsibility
[10:51] Introduction to the 15 traits of financially successful stylists
[15:47] Practical examples of what successful stylists do consistently
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
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– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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Episode 289
1 April 2025
In this week’s episode, I share a recent conversation I had with a Chicago-based stylist who is one of those rare people who is continually looking for those 1% improvements that separate good stylists from exceptional ones.
I talk about why it’s essential that salon owners invest in training their team beyond just technical skills.
Despite all the time, energy, and financial commitment you make as the salon owner, the real success of your business comes together when the stylist is standing behind the chair.
That's where the magic either happens or not…
As a salon owner, stop leaving the success of that interaction between client and stylist to chance. Instead, either invest in or develop your own comprehensive training programs that cover communication skills, client service, and the mindset needed for sustained success.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] Welcome and introduction
[00:45] Introducing Rita and the Super Stylist course
[01:49] Questions for salon owners about team training
[03:33] Where the rubber meets the road: The critical client interaction
[04:14] Introduction to Rita's story and my initial assumptions
[05:14] The surprising reality of Rita's experience and mindset
[05:58] Communication distinctions that matter with clients
[06:49] Rita's approach to continuous improvement
[07:47] What inspires me about stylists like Rita
[08:51] Information about the Super Stylist course
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
The Online Super Stylist course
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Episode 288
25 March 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Sydney-based salon owner and colourist Kirby Lago. I’ve had the pleasure of watching her grow her business from a small salon to a thriving luxury business five times the size.
Kirby is a great example of combining the life of being a very active behind the chair hairdresser with being a true business visionary and being prepared to put in the hard work and personal sacrifices that go with it.
In today’s podcast, we discuss:
- How the modern salon of today is evolving
- Salon design, branding, and creating an unforgettable client experience
- How Kirby uses Instagram to grow her business and attract her ideal clients
- As well as finding the balance between family life and running a business
And so much more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:00] – Intro: Welcome and podcast growth updates
[01:15] – Meet Kirby Lago: From small salon to luxury empire
[02:35] – Salon design for a high-end experience
[05:00] – The importance of branding and client perception
[07:09] – The transition to a color-focused salon for profitability
[10:28] – Why cutting skills are declining and how trends shape business
[14:19] – Hair restoration and holistic hair health services
[18:23] – Building the right team and outsourcing wisely
[23:09] – Salon culture: Setting expectations and maintaining a positive team
[25:50] – Why client experience is everything (and how to elevate yours)
[27:57] – Marketing and personal branding: How Kirby became the face of her business
[31:45] – Instagram strategy: The three content pillars that drive engagement
[35:49] – Balancing personal life with business and social media presence
[38:41] – Closing thoughts: Key takeaways for salon owners
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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Episode 285
4 March 2025
This is a reissue of one of our most popular episodes, where we revisit the keys to building an incredible salon culture with Meagan McCormack.
Meagan is, amongst other titles, ‘Chief Operating Officer' of the Visible Changes salon group based in Houston, Texas.
I promise that you are going to love this podcast. Visible Changes is an incredibly inspiring salon business that everyone can learn something from.
On this episode, we cover the following key areas:
1️⃣ The importance of recognition, celebration and reward in building a sustainable salon culture.
2️⃣ The importance of giving back.
3️⃣ The key to running a successful family business.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[02:45] Introducing Meagan McCormack, Chief Operating Officer of Visible Changes.
[03:10] A look at the history, values, and growth of Visible Changes
[10:56] The challenges and rewards of running a salon group as a family business
[18:30] Why recognition and appreciation are key to building a thriving salon culture.
[25:29] A behind-the-scenes look at the numbers that matter.
[29:45] Insights from Visible Changes’ company conferences
[30:12] Fostering a positive work environment through celebrations and acknowledging milestones.
[33:15] How to keep motivation high, from incentive trips to unique rewards for top performers.
[35:05] How the company sets realistic yet ambitious sales targets and supports their team in achieving them.
[40:20] The inspiring story of Christine Lee and how she achieved remarkable success within the company.
[46:45] Meagan’s approach to leadership, fostering teamwork, and ensuring a strong, united salon culture that supports long-term success.
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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Episode 284
25 February 2025
In todays episode I address a common concern among salon owners: “How do you get new graduated beauty school students or apprentices to be profitable as quickly as possible?”
Getting young team members profitable quickly is the result of a combination of recruitment, training, and leadership.
So begin by developing an internal comprehensive training program. Recruit for attitude. And train for skill.
Follow that up by giving trainees hands on experience as soon as possible. Weed out the non performers quickly and maintain a culture of learning and growth.
Tune in to learn actionable steps to fast-track apprentice productivity and profitability.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:19] Addressing the key question: Making apprentices profitable
[05:27] The importance of recruitment
[10:11] Effective training strategies
[22:07] Hands-on experience and client interaction
[23:27] Leadership and management
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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Episode 283
18 February 2025
In this episode of the Grow My Salon Business Podcast, I address a common question from salon owners about the distinction between business profit and the owner's wage.
We’ll cover why salon owners should receive both a wage and a return on their investment.
Drawing an analogy with other investments, I explain the importance of separating these two income streams and discuss various ways that salon profits should be allocated within the business.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:15] Listener question: Why are the Salon profit and owner's wages two separate things?
[02:00] Investment and profit explained
[03:09] Analogy of the stock market vs salon business
[05:56] Discussing investor vs employee earnings
[06:32] Explaining the salon owner's investment and profit
[08:50] The different uses of business profit
[10:46] Conclusion and course reminder
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
The Financially Savvy Salon Owner – Free Masterclass – Save your seat!
The online Money Course – Enrolment is open!
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Episode 282
11 February 2025
Today's guest is Susan Wos, an American-based former hairdresser turned business broker who specialises in the salon industry and has now worked with clients in America, Canada, Dubai, UK and Australia…
Susan brings valuable insights of the inner workings of the salon industry to the brokerage business.
In today’s podcast, we discuss:
– How much is your salon really worth?
– When is the right time to sell your salon?
– What are the biggest misconceptions about buying and selling salon businesses?
As well as…
The importance of keeping clean financial records, understanding the value of independent contractor income versus employee-based models, The dynamics of selling to existing staff and why it’s important to plan an exit strategy from the start.
And so much more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:13] Introducing today's guest: Susan Wos
[02:01] Susan's journey from hairdresser to business broker
[05:05] The challenges and insights in selling salons
[10:12] The intricacies of valuing a salon business
[14:17] The impact of self-employment on salon valuation
[17:51] Discussing market trends and buyer-seller dynamics
[21:44] Emergency sales: The strategies and considerations
[23:53] The importance of valuing your business realistically
[24:26] Planning your exit strategy early
[25:21] The importance of building a sellable business
[30:27] Selling to existing staff
[33:35] Typical buyers in the salon industry
[43:38] Connect with Susan Wos
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘 Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Free Business Valuation Calculator- https://salonspaconnection.com/free-salon-business-valuation/
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👉 FOLLOW SALON SPA CONNECTION!
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Episode 280
28 January 2025
I've been in the industry a long time, and as a result I’d like to think that I know a lot about all things to do with hair and hairdressing.
But one area I haven’t had a lot of practical hands-on exposure to, is the ‘Hair Extensions’ side of the business.
Heavily influenced by social media and reality TV influencers, the ‘hair extensions’ business has become a huge part of the salon industry, and as a revenue producer, it is certainly not something to be ignored.
My guest on today's Podcast is Dina Demetriou, who is the head of education at ‘Beauty Works’ They are the market leaders in the hair extension business in the UK and Europe, and they have a global presence in the hair extension Industry…
In today’s podcast, we discuss:
- What are the biggest misconceptions around hair extensions?
- The different methods when working with hair extensions.
- Why and how you should start integrating hair extensions into your salon business
And lots more!
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:07] Meet Dina Dimitriou from Beauty Works
[03:40] Dina's Journey into hair extensions
[05:23] Common objections and misconceptions about hair extensions
[09:11] The Influence of social media and reality TV
[13:26] Discussing hair extensions and hair health
[19:45] The evolution of hair extensions
[21:59] How hair extensions can attract new and existing clients
[24:35] The rise of the extensionist
[25:33] Challenges and success in the extension industry
[28:04] Training and certification for extensionists
[36:12] Retail opportunities and aftercare
[40:04] Pricing strategies for extensions
[47:18] Connecting with Dina and final thoughts
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
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👉 FOLLOW DINA DEMETRIOU!
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Episode 279
21 January 2025
For many salon owners, January is a time of the year when they’re getting the team refocused for the year ahead.
Because, traditionally January is a time of new beginnings. It's when you let go of the year before, set goals and launch new ideas for the salon.
So what’s the best way to get the team re-engaged motivated and excited for the coming year?
Because if goals and ideas are to turn into reality, you need to get the team onside and excited about what the future holds.
And to get the team ‘involved and onside’ means you need to get everyone together…
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:23] Kicking off the New Year: Get your salon team excited and engaged for a productive new year.
[02:17] Planning and structuring your team meeting/event, including clarifying the event's purpose.
[06:03] Reflecting on the past year to review past successes and challenges.
[08:29] The importance of setting clear, actionable goals and prioritising them effectively.
Want MORE to help you GROW?
📚 Check out our Bestselling GROW Books https://growmysalonbusiness.com/books/
🆘Management overwhelm!? Download our free checklist! This checklist will help you get clarity on where you're at https://growmysalonbusiness.com/management-checklist/
RATINGS + REVIEWS
🙏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.
👉 Here's what you do:
– On your phone, Click here (Read steps below first)
– Scroll down to ‘Ratings & Reviews'
– Tap on the empty purple stars and rate 5 stars
– Click on ‘Write a Review’ I love to hear what’s been helpful and what you love about the podcast! Thank you for your support! 🙏
Until next time!
Antony
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Grow Business School Live – 2 Day Event in London 16th & 17th May – Find out more
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