One of the main goals in any business is to be remembered for great services, experiences, staff and results. Sometimes it can feel overwhelming to seem unique or find ways to set yourself apart from your competitors. While the main thing owners/managers tend to focus on is the service menu, there are small details that can have huge results.
I just read an article in DAYSPA magazine that got me thinking of the different businesses I've been to over the years that stuck in my head, and why. I'll never forget years ago I went to a salon and they had someone going around with a refreshment cart to offer complimentary cucumber water, tea, wine and champagne and little nibbles. At that time, I'd never been to a salon that had anything other than a water cooler with paper cups. Almost 20 years later and I still remember the salon.
Offering a selection of herbal teas or something as simple as infused water may be the extra something that sets you apart for them.
Another option, rather than offering a groupon deal, discounts or coupons is to gift clients with a goodie bag of product samples from your retail line. It's a great way to introduce the products to clients and they feel appreciated when given a special gift. Take it a step further and let them choose 2 or 3 products they've been dying to try but haven't committed to purchasing yet. If you aren't retailing, it's a great time to start. You can significantly increase your profits by retailing quality lines and showing the value to your clients.
Do you offer a rewards club or member card? Giving clients a card to punch every time they receive a service leading up to a free service may be enough to get them to come in more often than if they never received any incentive. Also, have your technicians ASK clients for their card to punch. This instills a different level of confidence in your appreciation for the client. I know many times I've remembered about my loyalty card AFTER I left and it was too late.
Are you located in an area with shops, theaters or restaurants? There is a great opportunity for businesses to help each other with referral services. You could offer light appetizers from a local restaurant, offer to book a reservation for your clients while they are getting their services done or have the restaurant offer to add one of your services onto their guest's check.
Thinking outside of the box and even asking your clients for feedback on what would make their overall experience better is a great way to stay ahead of the competition and boost client retention.
Setting Yourself Apart From Your Competition
