Your business resolutions for 2024
• Written by Colin Shove
As we step into the new year, we're all fired up to make it our best one yet, right?
But let's be honest, it's easy to get caught up in the same old routine. So, how do we break the cycle and make 2024 a standout year?
Take it from James Clear in his brilliant book “Atomic Habits”: “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” He’s spot on! It's all about building those small, consistent habits in your salon business. Let’s dive into some practical tips:
Track Projected Revenue
Change is tricky, but influencing future outcomes? Totally doable. Start by understanding your current performance. Look at your net service sales from the last three months to gauge your monthly average. Then, compare this with your pre-booked revenue for the upcoming months. This isn’t just about the figures; it’s about spotting trends and getting your team on board to see those numbers climb.
Remember, lots of things can affect your business – bad weather, client cancellations, you name it. But when clients realise they can't easily reschedule, they'll prioritise your appointments. It makes a real difference!
Set Realistic Targets
We all love ambitious goals, but they need to be grounded in reality. Sure, doubling your sales sounds great, but have you considered the practicalities? Do you have enough staff, the right pricing, and enough hours to sell? Reflect on your past achievements and ask yourself: What needs to change to reach these new heights?
Boost Your Average Bill
Increasing your average bill is a smart move. If you’re using salon software, great – you’ve got this data at your fingertips. If not, just divide your total net service bill by the number of clients. While some suggest including retail sales, I recommend sticking to net figures for a clear picture of your progress.
Focus on Productivity
In the salon business, time is money. Understanding how much time is utilised versus available can reveal a lot about your business's potential. For instance, if a team member earns £500 using 50% of their available time, imagine the possibilities if that time usage increases!
Keep Tabs on Client Numbers
This might sound basic, but do you know how many clients you served last week or month? How about your team? Knowing these figures can help you gauge whether you can handle more clients without sacrificing service quality.
James Clear also advises: “Make it easy.” So, start by simply counting your clients and watch the difference it makes.
Here’s to a fantastic 2024 where your dreams turn into reality. Thanks for reading, and let’s make this year our best one yet!
The Salon App, is an all-in-one booking, management, and marketing software designed specifically for salons like yours. To discover how The Salon App can accelerate your success, book a demo.