Tips to grow your client base

It can be hard to increase your client base when there’s so much competition out there, but one way of doing it is by boosting your reputation with strong word-of-mouth referrals.

Do a fabulous treatment on an existing client and then ask them to post about the experience on social media, tagging your business.

Another way to gain new clients is to launch a VIP membership. The client pays an upfront fee for 12 months’ membership and in return receives exclusive deals such as 10% off treatments and retail products, plus a £30 voucher to give to a friend to introduce them to the salon.

If you’re not sure you have the time to set up a membership model, another proven method to increase footfall without needing much resource is to launch a refer-a-friend scheme.

Reward clients with a £5 treatment voucher (that must be used by a certain date) for every customer they refer, while giving a £5 discount to the person who has been recommended. It’s a simple way of rewarding those loyal to you and treating newcomers to your business.

These ideas have proven to be successful in my own salon but they will only work if you give your clients – old and new – an exceptional treatment that makes them never forget the experience.

Gemma Holt is a Professional Beauty Influencer, providing feedback via focus groups, and is also owner of Lily’s Beauty Salon in Whitchurch, Shropshire.