Getting back to the salon

Finally, it’s the blog post we’ve been waiting to write for the past three months; salons can re-open on the 4th July, but obviously strict guidelines need to be upheld. With this in mind, we’ve created our go to guide for getting back to the salon, featuring our pick of the need-to-know information and products out there that can help to keep you, your team and your clients safe.

Safety: Breathe + Protect

While it’s not mandatory to wear a mask when you’re working in the salon (a shield is), a mask adds an extra layer of protection and is also a necessity for front of house and we’re sure many of your clients, who want to feel as safe as possible. We’ve had a hunt around and the Breathe + Protect masks are definitely one of the most stylish brands on the market. 

Headed up by Ashley Westall, who has been in the fashion industry for more than 20 years, the Breathe + Protect face masks have been created with a minimal design boasting style and safety that has been carefully considered to allow us all to adapt to a new way of living. Created for fashion-conscious consumers and brands looking for a design-led aesthetic with efficacy at its heart, the masks are adjustable to fit every face shape, made from organic cotton, and incorporate an optional five-layer carbon filter for an added layer of protection.

Each mask comes with two replaceable PM2.5 filters, which are 95% effective, fluid and cough particle resistant and eliminate bacteria, dust, pollen, vehicle emissions, industrial pollution and pet dander. There’s also the option to get your masks designed with your own logo on. Now there’s an extra marketing tool. 

To find out more and to order, click HERE.

House-keeping : iSalon

Are you completely au fait with your salon software? do you utilise its full capabilities? If the answer is no, you have 10 days to turn it into your new BFF, so that when you open your salon doors, things run as smoothly as possible. iSalon is one software company that has it covered when it comes to keeping all aspects of the salon in check. Take a look at the different elements it offers…

SMS messaging

You don’t need us to tell you the impact of SMS messaging when it comes to communicating with clients (we’ve all been glued to phones since lock-down began). But nows a great time to send clients information on the new salon layout and what to expect on their first appointment back. 

Online booking

Making life easier and safer, iSalon offers iBookings which allows your clients to seamlessly book online directly from your website without even having to leave your homepage. iSalon can help you with your booking set up to allow an extra 15 minutes clean up time and to take deposits or full payments for all appointments.

Managing stock

Banish paper stock takes and go digital to make the process easier and more efficient. iSalon enables you to create an infantry of all the stock you have in the salon and update it. You’ll be able to access this information remotely using Command Centre – pretty useful if you’re having to work from home in the run up to opening!

Building your database

Use this time before reopening to your advantage and polish up your salon database. Having a database with your client’s email addresses is invaluable as you have a captive audience that are interested in what you have to say. Reach out to clients to confirm their email address is up to date and ensure your database is pristine. This way when you begin to send out e-shots again you are in the best position possible!

Find out more on how to improve your booking experience HERE.

Guide for freelancers: Indola

Of course, there’s been a huge focus on salons re-opening, but many freelance and self-employed hairdressers have called out for more specific advice for them to safely start back at work too. Thankfully Indola teamed up with the Freelance Hairdressers Association (FHA) to outline a reopening guide for freelance hairdressers that will specifically help self-employed hairdressers in the UK. Together they have created three separate guides for home salons, those that rent a chair and stylists that visit clients homes. Check out the guidelines HERE.

Here at Respect we wish you the best luck with getting back to the salon.

For more of the latest industry news, click HERE.

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