It’s 11 PM, and you’re winding down after a long day on your feet at the salon when another client text lights up your phone. “Can you squeeze me in tomorrow?”
Sound familiar?
If you’re constantly juggling client texts on your personal phone, it’s time for a change. Let’s dive into why this common practice can hold your business back and explore a solution to improve your salon’s communication strategy.
Watch the short…
…and hit play to watch the full video for episode 20 of Marketing 100 with salon marketing experts John and Kayle.
Continue reading below for practical tips on automating salon texting and its benefits for client communication and business management.
How Texting Clients from Your Personal Phone Hurts Your Salon Business
Using your personal phone for client communication is a recipe for disaster. Here’s why:
- Blurred boundaries: When does your workday end when you can be bothered at all hours?
- Scheduling nightmares: Ever had a client slip through the cracks because of a lost text?
- The “friend zone” trap: You know that client who thinks they can text you at midnight for a last-minute appointment?
Improving Salon Client Communication With Professional Texting Tools
Let’s explore how to enhance your client communication:
1. Move Away from Personal Phone Numbers
Switching to a dedicated business number through salon software might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s worth it. This change isn’t just about separating work and personal life; it’s about enhancing your entire business approach.
2. Adopt Texting Software for Your Salon
This step is important. Modern salon software offers two-way texting that:
- Keeps all client communication in one place
- Allows texting through the business number
- Maintains a professional boundary
Advantages of Using Salon Software
By making this change, you’ll:
Get Your Personal Time Back
No more late-night texts from clients asking for last-minute appointments. Your off-hours become truly yours, improving your work-life balance. Those texts go to your software, meaning you or your front desk can respond during business hours.
Look More Professional
A dedicated business line shows clients you take your work seriously, enhancing your salon’s reputation.
Improve Team Communication
Everyone stays informed, reducing scheduling mix-ups. When a client texts about running late, you and your front desk are notified immediately without playing a game of telephone.
Make Clients Happier
Quick, easy communication leads to better client experiences. Clients can easily text if they’re running late or have a quick question, improving overall satisfaction.
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Using Salon Software for Personalized Marketing
Switching to a salon software with an instant messaging system doesn’t just improve your work-life balance. It can also boost your marketing strategy:
Personalization at scale: You can easily personalize your marketing messages based on each client’s history and preferences, with all client interactions in one place.
Data-driven decisions: Gain insights into client communication patterns to inform your marketing strategies. Modern salon software like Mangomint can help you gather and analyze this data so you can send the right message at the right time.
Targeted campaigns: Use client data to create highly targeted SMS and email campaigns that resonate with your audience. Check out our guide on salon marketing solutions for more ideas.
Improved client retention: Consistent, professional communication builds trust and keeps clients returning. Explore strategies for building salon client loyalty.
An Example of Personalization in Action
Let’s look at a practical example of how personalized communication can help your marketing results:
Scenario: Sarah, a loyal client, typically books a haircut every 6 weeks and occasionally gets highlights.
Traditional Approach: Send a generic “It’s time for your appointment!” text to all clients every 6 weeks.
Personalized Approach: Use your salon software to track Sarah’s visit history and preferences.
Send a tailored message 3 weeks after her last visit:
Hi Sarah! You’re due for a cut soon! I noticed it’s been a while since your last highlight. Do you want to freshen them up this time? My books are starting to fill up and I want to make sure I can get in so you’re ready for summer! 🌞💕
Result: Sarah appreciates the personalized reminder and offer. She books both services, increasing her spending and strengthening her loyalty to your salon.
As salon marketing evolves, personalized communication becomes increasingly important. Salon texting software fits perfectly into this trend, allowing you to send targeted, relevant messages to your clients. This approach can help you build salon client loyalty more effectively than ever before.
Taking the Next Step
Are you ready to improve your salon’s communication strategy? Here’s what you can do:
- Research salon software options with two-way texting features
- Set clear boundaries with your clients about the new communication method
- Train your team on the new system
- Start small – maybe transition your top 20 clients first
- Monitor and adjust – what’s working? What needs tweaking?
P.S. For more proven strategies to improve your salon marketing, don’t forget to check out the rest of our Marketing 100 series.