Charging your salon clients can be tricky. You don’t always know how to approach it, especially if you are someone who is relatively new to the industry.
You see all sorts of advice and guidance out there. But what actually works and will generate the results you want?
Here’s where you can find out. We look at how to charge money more effectively and get the profitability and business results that you want. Get started here:
Create A Membership Program
One idea you could try is a membership program. If you have the same clients coming back month after month, you want to lock in those payments with an automated approach.
These days, setting up subscription plans is straightforward. Numerous payment providers offer it, allowing you to receive a steady stream of funds as the year progresses. You don’t have to go through the process of accepting payments in-store, and customers feel happier, knowing that they can spread the cost of their treatments, whatever they happen to be.
Tiered Pricing
Another approach is to tier your pricing. Offering different services at various price points can be a key way to encourage your best clients to get everything you have to offer.
For example, your basic package might include something simple, like a haircut and blow dry, while your premium options could include shampooing, adding expensive conditioners, and creating hair masks to deal with specific issues clients want to address.
Time-Based Charging
Another approach is to offer time-based charging. This setup tends to make activities like balayage and coloring more profitable long-term compared to a flat fee.
Yes, it may create some confusion with your customers. But it can also be highly beneficial if they know which directly they want to take things, putting them in control and allowing them to determine how much treatment they receive.
Flat rates are okay for basic treatments but can land you in trouble for more complex ones. Some customers are simpler cases (usually because they have shorter hair). But if you are charging everyone the same amount, they may not get the value that they want.
Seasonal Pricing
Another option is to make pricing seasonal. Here, you charge more during peak demand and less the rest of the year.
This option is ideal for salons that want to keep business going throughout the year. Quiet periods can be demotivating for staff, especially those who want to work all the time.
Retail Product Upselling
You could also try retail product upselling. The idea here is to provide clients with products that can help them maintain their results long-term at a higher price.
Working with a specific manufacturer on formulations is an excellent option. If these are unique, it could encourage customers to spend more.
VIP Programs
Finally, you could explore VIP programs and memberships. These could open up specialist treatment for members that aren’t available to the general public, perhaps because they are in short supply. Such approaches make customers feel valued and push them to the head of the queue.
