Starting & Running a Beauty Salon

The UK beauty industry was estimated to be worth 3.7 million pounds in 2007 and has since grown even bigger, approaching the five-million pound mark. No wonder in a recent survey, seven out of ten beauticians indicated their desire to run their own beauty salon.

One of the most interesting aspects of the beauty industry is the fact that those who choose to study and make a career in this field have a passion for their work and really enjoy what they do. This is the most essential ingredient for the success of any business.

However, the majority of salons are run by beauticians who have had very little or no training in business management, sales, marketing or finance; some of the most essential skills needed to make any business successful and profitable. These are often not offered as part of the beauty training courses available. This lack of knowledge can result in many new businesses to fail at the first hurdle and usually within the first 2 to 3 years. Some who do survive make little money in comparison to the time and effort they spend in the business.

To start a new beauty salon or improve the efficiency and profitability of an existing salon one would need a lot more than just passion for the beauty business. It requires not only hard work and commitment, clear aims and targets, but crucially, proper guidance and informed advice on the many aspects of business management.

So, before taking the plunge use the following checklist and make sure you have thoroughly researched your proposition and are confident you know what steps you have to take, where to get information & advice, and how to implement them.

1. Research your market and devise your business plan
2. Arrange finance and ensure sufficient funds are available
3. Select location, premises, layout, decor and furniture
4. Decide on treatments, products and equipment
5. Familiarise yourself with basic employment laws, recruit staff and organise training
6. Formulate a sales and marketing strategy
7. Never underestimate your competition and keep in touch with changes and advances in your industry
8. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to get proper professional & informed advice

By Bijan Yousef-Zadeh co-author of Start and Run a Successful Beauty Salon. Visit www.start-and-run-a-successful-beauty-salon.co.uk