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SEARCHWhat makes clients come back again and again? It’s more than a good haircut or manicure. Kim Becker shares how delivering a “first-time” feeling and giving back to the community helped her salon stand out and succeed.
Dearing Marketing Group
As a hairdresser for over four decades, I've seen the salon industry evolve, but one truth remains constant: to truly thrive, you can't just offer great services; you have to create an experience. And in today's competitive landscape, that experience extends far beyond the chair, into the heart of your community.
When I first started, the nuances of customer service weren't deeply emphasized in beauty school. But the "school of hard knocks" taught me invaluable lessons. I quickly realized that treating every person as I wished to be treated was the golden rule. I became a keen observer of what made me feel truly special as a customer, what made me want to return to a business time and time again.
When we opened our salon, Cheveux Professional Hair Design, we built it on two core pillars: first, fostering an environment where our employees felt valued and respected, just as we wished we had been treated. Second, we committed to delivering the most exceptional customer service our guests had ever encountered. We never wanted to be a "one-hit wonder"—you know those places, where the first visit is amazing, but every return feels like an afterthought.
My personal mission became making every single client feel like it was their very first time walking through our doors. We greeted them by name, offered refreshments, and before a drop of water touched their head, we conducted a detailed consultation. I asked specific questions, listening intently, to ensure I could provide not just a haircut, but the best possible hair service for them. And this wasn't a one-off; I did this every single time they came in. We never wanted the magic, the "newness" of our salon, to wear off, ensuring every client always felt important and genuinely welcome. Our success was built on consistently delivering that "first time" feeling.
But in today's world, standing out means more than just impeccable service. It means becoming a beacon in your community. This is where Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) comes in, transforming your salon into a place that not only beautifies individuals but also enriches the lives around them. By actively giving back, like partnering with non-profits that support causes close to your heart, you elevate your brand beyond the competition.
Dearing Marketing Group
Our Hello Gorgeous! Certified Salons experience this impact daily, becoming true standouts in their communities through their dedicated work with women battling cancer.
Think about it: How do your clients really feel when they leave? Do they feel special, valued, and connected? What can you do to truly stand out in a crowded market?
My old business coach used to say, "You want to be remembered beyond the parking lot!" By creating an unforgettable experience, combining exceptional service with a genuine commitment to your community, you turn clients into raving fans. They won't just remember their great hair; they'll remember how you made them feel, and how your salon makes a difference.
That's the ultimate way to stand out.
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