Although all customer-facing businesses have to worry about their reputation, a salon can live and die based on what its clients say. Considering most individuals will continue to go to the same beauty specialist for decades, building a high-quality reputation and long-lasting client relationships matters.
Today, there’s no better way to get the word out about your business than doing so online. There are some great, easy-to-follow management strategies for salon owners to boost their positive online presence. Here’s where to start and how to maintain your business’s good vibes online.
USE GOOGLE TO YOUR ADVANTAGE
Chances are that most of your new clients are finding you through Google. Fortunately, the site makes it easy for business owners to control their listings. To start making the popular search engine work for you, claim your Google My Business Page. This is pretty simple to do by providing proof that you are the salon owner. Doing this will enable you to update contact information, including your website, social media handles, and phone number.
Ready for the next step? It’s time to connect with Google Alerts, a free tool that notifies you when your brand is mentioned on the web. It’s extra helpful in identifying whether your efforts to boost your online reputation are working.
Last, but certainly not least, focus on local searches. Since you have a physical space, you want to grab the attention of potential clients in your area, not in another state or country. You can send targeted ads to individuals searching for salons in your city, making you stand out even more.
PAY ATTENTION TO SOCIAL MEDIA
While search engines are helpful, you have little control over their algorithms. In layman’s terms, algorithms are the often confusing calculations used when you’re looking for something specific online.
With that in mind, you’ll want to max out your potential on social media. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest make it easy to show potential new clients the amazing work you do. You can even search for your business through hashtags and mentions to see what clients are saying. Even better, ask clients if you can share a fabulous selfie of them showing off the results of their latest glam service.
Once you find people mentioning your brand, connect with them positively. Comment on their posts or respond to their comments, building a better reputation for your salon while barely lifting a finger.
PUT YOUR REVIEW PAGES FRONT AND CENTER
More and more consumers check out online reviews before booking a service or buying a product. Before going to any business, most of us want to research to see what others are saying. If your salon does not have many reviews, it can feel like a red flag for potential clients.
To help grow your salon with online reviews, make it easy for people to leave one. Offer links in any email or social media correspondence. The more effortless it is, the more likely your customers are to follow through with it.
RESPOND TO NEGATIVE REVIEWS
No one likes to hear someone bad-mouthing them, but it is unavoidable when running a business. However, instead of avoiding this negativity, it is best to confront it head-on, but calmly and with a suggested solution. First, make sure your comment on the negative review is polite, even if their words were rude. Be upfront and honest, owning up to any mistakes made during the service you provided. Finally, offer that solution. Even if this person doesn’t want to return to your salon, other folks skimming the reviews will see your kind gesture. This sort of customer service is very appealing and reassuring to potential clients.
Salon Lofts Loft Owner Success Team offers free social media and business courses to all Loft Owners. Click below to find out more about all of the SL Advantages and take your beauty career to the next level.
