Your Salon’s New Star

Introducing a new staff member into your team is an exciting opportunity to refresh your brand, expand your treatment menu and attract more clients.

In an industry where trust and familiarity are so valued, use this to your advantage to get your clients on board and fill your new therapist or stylist’s column quickly.

Communicate with clients

Ahead of their start date, let clients know about the new addition to the salon team.

Whilst chatting to existing clients, mention how exciting it is to have someone new joining your team and what benefits this will bring. For example, it will be easier to get an appointment or discuss new treatments that will be available.

Introduce your new team member on your website, share a short Q&A video on your social media profiles and make an announcement in your email newsletter. You could also display a poster in the salon announcing when your new team member’s diary will open.

Include a photograph of them in all of your communications and share the list of treatments they will be offering, especially if they’re bringing something new.

If you’re planning on moving a client’s appointment to your new recruit, tell the client in advance; it’s a courtesy that they will appreciate and avoids any embarrassment when they arrive.

You may have clients who object because of established relationships, so highlight your new team member’s skills and experience and reassure clients that feedback is welcome, whether they’re happy or dissatisfied with their experience.

Encourage your clients to embrace a new therapist or stylist and try something new.

In the salon, introduce every client to your new therapist or stylist, even if their appointment is not with them. You want their face to become as recognisable as you are to your clients.

Offer incentives

It can often be the case that it takes time for a new recruit to build their column. A gentle nudge may encourage clients to try your new therapist or stylist. This could include introductory discounts for a limited time or referral perks if clients make recommendations to friends. You could also bundle treatments into packages only available with your new member of staff. This will not only highlight the breadth of their expertise but may also encourage clients to try therapies they weren’t aware your salon can now offer.

Realistic expectations

Your new team member may feel under pressure, demoralised and anxious if their diary column takes time to fill. Have realistic expectations and reassure them. Celebrate small wins by sharing positive client feedback and publicly acknowledge when more clients book in.

Encourage your new team member to engage in the process of filling their column by suggesting ways to encourage new clientele. Whilst not all ideas may be feasible, run with at least one to show that you value their input.

Introducing a new staff member is a chance to energise your team and increase your salon’s offering. With thoughtful planning and ongoing support, your new team member can quickly become a well-loved part of your salon experience with a column that’s full to bursting.