Garnering new clients as a means to growing your salon business usually requires investing both time and energy in marketing activities. Although it may seem counterintuitive, sometimes the best way to boost sales is to think like a production manager.
The challenge in serving your salon clientele is to remain productive, while also giving high-quality, personal service to each client. Take a lesson from the science of lean manufacturing, and put more efficiency into your salon. Lean manufacturing is about efficiently creating value for the customer. First, you identify each step in the production process. Then, you strive to eliminate waste, such as unnecessary steps taken to complete a task. Striving for consistent, excellent service is another crucial component in an efficient workplace.
Here’s how to apply those ideas to your nail-salon business:
1. Use a timer. This time management tool will help you eliminate superfluous steps. More importantly, by quantifying your time, those time-wasters that drain your profits will come into clearer focus. For example, how many extra steps do you add to your day, due to the layout of your shop? Is there a way to better organize the shop?
2. Master the art of small talk. Ensure your staff understands the essentials of providing excellent customer service, as this a fundamental principle of lean manufacturing. Nail technicians should know how to chat it up with clients, while working. Engaging in conversations with clients shows you are going the extra mile, and will make your customers feel special.
3. Practice makes perfect. In lean manufacturing, the focus is on eliminating both human error and material waste. Practice new techniques until you have perfected them. Mistakes waste both time and resources, and may strain the patience of your customers, too. Busy working professionals will appreciate your efficiency, as long as the quality of service remains intact.
For additional tips on maintaining and increasing your client base, check out this article on ideas for boosting your customer service.