The beauty industry is always changing. Business costs continue to rise, the economy is struggling, and it seems like it’s getting harder to find quality hairstylists. Business practices that may have worked in the past are now outdated.

If you want to avoid common roadblocks to your business’ success, you must first identify what they are and then seek out solutions. The following tips will help you take preventative measures as a salon owner:

1. Denial.

Far too many salon owners want to stay in their comfort zone due to a resistance to change, because change requires effort and new thinking. Sometimes we must have an open mind and be willing to admit our faults and mistakes. Overcoming the fear of failure is a challenge many owners are unwilling to undertake.

2. Complacency.

It is much easier to keep making excuses for failing rather than putting in the effort to meet the heavy challenges of salon ownership. Always be striving to do better and set new goals so you and your team are constantly raising the bar higher.

3. Refusing to seek help.

There are many excellent resources and business coaches available to help salon owners. Trying to meet these challenges alone can be frustrating and extremely costly in the long run. Click here for a list of business education opportunities.

4. Failure to develop business skills.

Most of you already know how to do hair, but how many of you know how to manage your team and promote your salon? A recent study showed that 94% of all business failures were due to poor business management skills on the part of the owner. Owning a salon is a business and must be run as a business first and foremost.

5. Making poor hiring decisions

Hiring the wrong people can be devastating and lead to salon walkouts. Even one “bad apple” can ruin your entire operation. Two or three problem employees just about guarantees failure. Make sure you have your own staff development program and employee guidebook (or follow mine!).

6. Ignoring customer loss.

Failing to monitor your customer return rate and negative word of mouth feedback can be a huge disadvantage when trying to build and grow your business. Always watch the numbers and what people are saying about your salon – including online.

7. Poor planning and organization.

Lack of careful planning and organization is a huge problem. A trial and error approach to building a successful business is just too costly in terms of time, money and energy spent. Have a business plan in place for your salon, and stay on top of everything that’s going on to keep profits growing.

Published with permission from Jon Gonzales. Gonzales is a business consultant, trainer & speaker to salon owners and hairdressers. Visit his blog for more free business tips: https://hcds4you.com