Running a business is hard – there is no other way to put it. As a business owner for more than 21 years, I have encountered many highs and many lows, difficult decisions, recessions, pandemics – you name it, our salon and our team has lived through it.

First Salon

Opening a salon was a dream for myself and partner Kevin. From the moment we opened the doors to our very first F&M salon back in 2001, we knew the journey was just beginning – and what a journey it has been so far. The highs of course outnumber the lows, but there is so much involved with business that sometimes you will find that your mind is overloaded with information, numbers and decisions, all requiring immediate attention.

Running a salon, there is of course so much more involved than any other business. Ensuring you are working with the best brands and products, providing your team with the highest standard of employment and opportunities, and the clients with the most exceptional services and surroundings – as well as everything else thrown into the mix!

There is some important factors that you must remember throughout your business life, in order to make your business the best it can be, continuously building and growing at a steady pace.

Do’s

Take your time

As simple as it sounds, take your time in business and when making decisions. In business, we all make mistakes, it’s how we learn. Yet, taking your time to evaluate all avenues before making any decision is key to avoiding mistakes or bad decisions being made. You will know through time if something is right or wrong, so take the time to process, research and over evaluate.

Always remain focussed on your goals

When times get hard, giving up can seem like an easy way out and all the stress disappears. However, don’t think this way. Focus on your goals, your visions for the future and your next level of achievement to keep you motivated when you are having any periods of difficulty. And of course, remember why you started.

Ask for help and advice if you need it

Don’t think you know everything in business and don’t think you need to know. Asking people in specific areas for help is ok, and you will receive the best advice which will help you succeed and grow. Reach out to fellow salon owners, other local business owners and those who work in similar fields – you will be overwhelmed at the amount of help and advice you will receive. We all started somewhere and sharing is a way of helping and allowing our industry to evolve.

 

Don’ts

Splash the cash
Don’t think success comes immediately, it takes time and remember you must be smart when it comes to the finances. Always having a hand on this and ensuring you always have a ‘back up plan’ is essential. Working hard will show your success but be careful and smart. No one could’ve predicted the pandemic or the strain of the last recession, so make sure you have funds saved to cover any unexpected or emergencies.

Make quick decisions

One of the things I have learned in business is to take time and process every decision. Quick decisions are more often than not mistakes, or can lead to mistakes so evaluate and take your time before committing or going ahead with something.

Grow too quick, to soon

Growth is amazing for a salon, in fact for any business. It shows a sign of progression, a step in the right direction and elevates the business. However, be careful not to grow too soon. Running a business is hard and doubling the workload can have a negative effect on you as an individual and your business if it all gets too much, You will know when the time is right.

Lean more about F&M Hairdressing here.