We get that's a loaded question! At first glance, you might say, "Post your work and make trendy videos." Or "Buy business cards and leave them everywhere!" While those are useful methods, it’s important to have an end goal that is specific to you, and a time frame you want to get it done in.

You have probably heard the saying "Trust the process" and it’s so true! You need the process to learn and understand the things you like, the things you don't like, and the areas you may need some help!

Begin by finding what you want. What are your goals and what does your life look like at that point? Is it realistic? We're not saying you can’t have a mansion and expensive car, but is that YOUR goal? If it is, you will have to plan to base your clients and work ethic off of that expectation. Lets say you didn’t do that from the start and a year down the road, you realize you have been pricing off emotions, giving away your services, and not giving your business the time and effort to even get close to your goals. You might find yourself saying you don’t want a mansion, but you want time with family and the time to do things you enjoy!

Whatever the goal is, you can get there with a good plan!

It’s time to get analytical. If you want to work a certain amount of days so you have more time with family and/or free time, you'll need to utilize your work days to offset and be able to support your lifestyle. If you feel like you’re working constantly but still not able to support your lifestyle, it may be time to reevaluate.

Let’s say each week, you want to work 4 days a week and take 3 clients each day. That equals 12 clients a week. There’s your first goal! Once you’ve reached 12 clients, you just have to repeat the process 4 more times. So once you have a solid book for the month, you will have 48 clients.

Plan a photoshoot, ask small local companies to get involved, even ask a friend to be a hair model, so you feel comfortable getting content with them.

Create the community and overall vibe you want, in order to set the tone for your business.

This is just one idea, but once you create the overall atmosphere and brand, like-minded people will naturally want to be in your chair.

You want to connect with people who can actually sit in your chair. If you go viral, it helps visibility but it doesn’t foster the most important part of being a hairstylist, the client experience! If you make your client look & feel amazing, they will want to come back again and again!

The client experience starts with the client finding you! It could be from a friend or from scrolling on social media! What will they see or hear?

So, let's they book an appointment!

That’s an amazing feat! Now it’s time to give them a positive in person experience. What will that be like? Music, drinks, snacks, conversation, or quiet time? It’s up to you, but your clients will remember their experience for how it made them feel. The hair could be perfect but if the overall atmosphere isn't stellar, they could want to try somewhere new. So remember, small details matter. The client experience isn’t over when they walk out the salon doors. Check in with them to see how they are and don’t be afraid to ask for a referral and a review!