Although many businesses can shift their operations online, such as those in the retail and restaurant business, that isn’t possible for others. That’s because personal interaction is crucial for specific sectors, such as the beauty and wellness industry.
However, salons and spas are finding ways to keep their business going, with most of them turning to digital operations in response to the pandemic and the government’s mandate of closing down personal-care businesses due to the coronavirus.
That said, here are the different ways salons and spas are coping with the pandemic.
Automating Anything They Can
Most businesses nowadays, including spas and salons are automating what they can to streamline business operations. When working with social media advertising to come up with efficient campaigns, you can automate the analytical process. This will help you stay up to date with progress, performance, and the latest trends.
So, think of any tasks that you can automate, besides continuous monitoring, consider how you’re communicating with your customers. For example, if you’re currently sending out newsletters to your email list, you can automate this to send emails to your customers during specific periods every month.
You can also use automation processes in your bookings and appointments. Doing this gives your customers the chance to reschedule appointments by themselves.
Going Online
Most businesses in the beauty industry are bringing their events online. Virtual events are now replacing live events when possible. Plus, some beauty businesses are actively reaching out to existing and potential clients—helping everyone stay connected.
Additionally, some salons and spas may hold webinars for employees and workers, keeping everyone up to date. ; Although it may seem unusual to provide beauty, spa, and wellness services online, it’s best to think about what your clients need while they can’t see you in the meantime.
For instance, if your physical store is temporarily closed, guide them through how to cut their hair at home, or what beauty products to use between facials. A great example for this is the company, Bodyworks, where they gave their massage therapists the chance to talk to their clients about self-care, offering video consultations with their regular clients.
Spas and salons that are reopened are usually using virtual consultations, maximizing productivity. After all, with so few customers allowed to enter physical locations, virtual consultations are a fantastic way to increase revenue.
Promoting Remote Working
Remote working or working from home has become the ‘new normal’ for many beauty business pros. That’s because most jobs these days are computer-intensive, making remote working the best option in the current situation. For example, famous beauty brand Unilever has recently announced that all their office-based employees will be working from home. After all, it wouldn’t benefit anyone if any of their team members show up at the workplace sick.
So, if you’re running a salon or spa, ensure to cut off any unnecessary contact, such as consultations or booking appointments. Only offer physical services like manicures, pedicures, haircuts, and massages to a limited audience and make sure to follow the protocols.
Taking Advantage of Retail Products
Salons and spas often sell retail products on the side to earn extra money. Many are taking advantage of this and are keeping their online store stocked during the pandemic—allowing them to continue earning. After all, as long as you have your suppliers, customers will bring in the demand. That’s why whether you’re selling massage oil shampoo, essential oils, and other beauty products—stock up!
Additionally, during these times, it’s best to invest more in your digital marketing campaigns to bring more awareness to your retail products, and your brand in general.
Staying In Touch with Customers
Any business must stay in touch with their customers, and online operations have made this easier for businesses to do. Organizations can now boost morale on social media or create newsletters with resources, continually engaging with consumers. Besides that, spas and salons should offer one-on-one appointments and consultations or provide advice online.
Spas and salon owners should also try and connect with their peers to see what strategies and advice other businesses have to offer during these trying times. You should join in the conversations and stay up to date on your industry’s trends to continue smooth operations.
Because of the ongoing pandemic, salons and spas are making tough decisions on what they can do to their operations while considering the coronavirus, leading many businesses to shift to online operations. That’s why digital salons and personal spas are quickly becoming more popular. The strategies mentioned are what made these trends the ‘new normal’ in the industry—allowing the sector to thrive despite the circumstances.