Introduction
The holiday season, while joyous, is fraught with unique challenges for businesses, particularly salons. Increased foot traffic, staffing issues, illness, and retail crime all pose potential risks. However, by preparing effectively, you can safeguard your business and ensure continued success during this peak period. Here are seven critical tips to protect your business.
1. Staff Up Effectively
As business ramps up, your staff may feel pressured. Consider hiring seasonal employees to manage the overflow, but ensure they meet your salon’s standards. As Candice Idehen, owner of Bed of Nails Nail Bar, suggests, hire seasonal staff with the same core values as permanent employees to avoid resource strain during short-term hires. Proper, thorough training before the holiday rush can convert temporary workers into long-term assets for your team.
2. Emphasize the Holiday Spirit
Creating a cohesive team spirit can significantly help manage stress. Encourage employees to support one another and care for clients alike. By providing perks such as chocolates or small treats, both your staff and clients experience a more enjoyable atmosphere, easing the stress of the busy season, as supported by Valerie Griggs of 20 Lounge.
3. Implement Theft Prevention
According to a 2016 report, retail crime surges by 40% during the holidays. Employ strategies like the 3-foot rule to interact directly with customers frequently, deterring theft attempts through active engagement. Employ surveillance technology like CCTV to monitor areas easily missed by staff, ensuring a visible deterrent to potential thieves.
4. Monitor Your Finances
To deal with increased cash flow, vet your front desk staff thoroughly, including background checks. Limit cash register access to minimize opportunities for theft. Employ secure practices, such as maintaining cash limits below $200 and utilizing drop safes. Educating employees on theft prevention further strengthens security.
5. Upgrade Payment Methods
With a rise in credit transactions, having secure and modern payment facilities is vital. Implement EMV chip readers to prevent fraudulent activities associated with outdated technologies. Offering secure transaction options not only protects your business from fraud but also boosts customer perception of your business as forward-thinking and secure.
6. Weatherproof Your Property
During icy months, reducing slip and fall risks must be a priority. Use large mats for entryways and keep the floors dry with frequent cleaning. Consider slip-resistant flooring as a long-term solution to enhance safety and minimize liability.
7. Inhibit Illness
Flu season compounds staff and client health risks. Enforce handwashing protocols and frequent sanitation of surfaces to prevent sickness. Provide preventive health supplies like vitamins and encourage flu vaccinations to maintain a healthy workforce. Convey illness policies to clients and provide masks, if necessary, to protect all parties involved.
Conclusion
Proactively implementing these strategies ensures your salon business thrives during the holiday season. Through thoughtful planning and staff management, your business can not only survive but also flourish by providing a safe, welcoming, and efficient environment for clients and employees alike.
