Today, positive and fulfilling workplace culture is more important than ever, and that goes for salons, too. People want to work somewhere that’s positive and encouraging and makes people feel valuable. And it’s no secret that many workplaces are struggling to keep workers feeling engaged and fulfilled.
That’s why it’s critical to focus on developing a positive salon culture so that you can not only keep your stylists and people feeling fulfilled, but you can also attract new talent to your salon.
Luckily for you, we have created a guide that will show you how to boost employee morale and build a positive salon culture. Some of these tips can be implemented instantly while some may take some time. However, the time and investment it takes to build a positive salon culture is well worth the investment as you will see both an instant and long-term return.
How to Create a Positive Salon Culture
Every salon is different, from the people it serves to the stylists it employs. Some of these approaches will need to be adapted to fit your salon’s unique needs and people. Salon culture is never a one-size-fits-all deal.
Define and Document the Culture You Want to Create
Do you know what kind of culture you want your salon to have? If not, it’s best to figure it out before you implement a bunch of different techniques and initiatives. Create a salon mission statement to clearly define the culture you want to create. It’s important to note what your culture feels and looks like so you can create it.
Before you pick up any handbooks or hire a consultant to fix your salon’s culture, start with your people first. Salon managers and owners can learn a lot about the benefits and downsides of their existing culture through their people. Whether you gather around in a circle at the next staff meeting to discuss what’s working and what isn’t or you send out an anonymous survey for your employees to fill out, this is a great first step. If you’re wondering what you should be asking your employees during these meetings or surveys, we have included a few questions below that can reveal a lot about your culture:
On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best), how would you rate our salon’s current culture?
Do you find the culture to match your needs as an employee and an individual?
Do you feel like you have a good work-life balance?
What are some things you would improve about the culture?
What are some things that are weighing on you when you come into work?
How can salon managers better support you during your shift?
Everyone loves to receive praise — especially at work where achievements can sometimes go unnoticed. Employee recognition programs are a great way to build a positive culture and boost employee morale. Whether you, the salon manager, personally recognizes a few people during each staff meeting or you have your employees submit peer recognition forms, this will bring everyone together.
Hire for Culture Fit
When you are seeking out new stylists to join your salon, it’s important to hire people who you feel would make a great fit with your current employees and culture. Skills can always be taught later on down the line, but personality and work ethic can’t always be molded.
Invest in Your Staff
Employees are more likely to stick around and contribute to a positive culture if they feel like they are invested in. With that being said, it’s important to regularly invest in your people — whether that means buying new salon tools or constantly offering continued education opportunities.
As you build a positive culture, it’s important to check in with your staff to ensure everyone is feeling welcomed and included in your culture. You can do this through weekly staff meetings or walk around the floor once a day to check in with people personally.
Communicate Goals and Expectations
When it comes time to implement new culture initiatives, it’s important to let your people know about your expectations and goals so they can also align themselves.
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