Top 10 Rules for Salon Owners by Joe Cignetti

At Glide Hair Tools we have put together what we believe are the top 10 points all salon owners need to keep on top of.

1. Know Your Numbers
As a salon owner, you must treat your numbers as your compass. Regularly track revenue, service and retail sales, wages, rent, utilities, stock costs, and profit margins. Understand your break-even point so you know exactly how many clients or sales you need each week. Use a simple system like MYOB, Xero, or even a detailed spreadsheet. Knowing your numbers allows you to price your services properly, plan for promotions, identify cost leaks, and make confident business decisions.

2. Deliver Consistent Client Experience
Every client walking through your door should feel welcomed, valued, and cared for — no matter who is working that day. Develop a salon-wide approach to service standards: how clients are greeted, consulted, served refreshments, offered retail advice, and thanked at checkout. Pay attention to ambiance too — music, cleanliness, scents, and atmosphere are all part of their experience. A consistently excellent experience is what builds client loyalty, repeat business, and referrals.

3. Lead Your Team with Clarity and Care
You set the tone for your salon. Create clear expectations for professionalism, punctuality, dress code, client care, and teamwork. Provide regular feedback and show appreciation for great work — recognition keeps your team engaged and loyal. Foster an open-door policy so your team feels heard and supported. A motivated, happy team creates a positive atmosphere for your clients and ensures your salon runs smoothly, even when you’re not there.

4. Prioritise Hygiene and Presentation
Cleanliness is non-negotiable. Ensure every workstation is spotless, tools are sterilised, towels are clean and neatly folded, and floors, basins, and retail areas are immaculate. Beyond hygiene, your salon should look fresh and inviting modern décor, fresh flowers or greenery, well-organised retail displays, and clutter-free reception. First impressions matter and presentation influences trust — a clean, beautiful space encourages clients to return.

5. Keep Marketing Active
You can’t rely on repeat clients alone. Even a busy salon needs a steady stream of new clients. Plan your marketing so it’s ongoing — not something you do only when business is slow. This means managing your online presence (Google Business Profile, Instagram, Facebook), offering referral programs, seasonal promotions, collaborations with local businesses, and collecting and showcasing client reviews. Marketing should be seen as part of your monthly business rhythm, not an occasional task.

6. Train and Upskill Continuously
Trends, techniques, and client expectations evolve — your team must evolve too. Commit to regular training for your staff, whether it’s in-house workshops, external courses, attending trade shows, or inviting product reps for demos. This ensures your salon can offer the latest services, build staff confidence, and position itself as a modern, forward-thinking business. Training also boosts morale, as staff feel you’re investing in their growth.

7. Know and Manage Your Stock
Stock management affects both your costs and your ability to serve clients. Keep your back-bar stocked with essential supplies but avoid over-ordering. Regular stocktakes help prevent theft, wastage, and expired products. On your retail shelves, ensure products are well displayed and clean, and train your team on how to confidently recommend them to clients. Retail sales can significantly boost profits when managed properly — and they add value to your clients’ home haircare.

8. Set Policies and Stick to Them
Your time and your team’s time are valuable. Clear, written policies around late arrivals, no-shows, deposits, cancellations, and payment methods help protect your business and reduce frustration. Communicate these clearly to clients (on your website, booking system, and in-salon signage) so there are no misunderstandings. Strong policies support professionalism and help your team enforce boundaries fairly.

9. Manage Cash Flow Wisely
Even busy salons can experience cash flow stress if income and expenses aren’t balanced. Monitor your incomings and outgoings closely — pay attention to quieter seasons, school holidays, and public holidays that might affect trade. Build a financial buffer so you’re prepared for unexpected expenses or downturns. Avoid spending all your profits as soon as they come in — healthy cash flow keeps your business stable and ensures you can invest when needed.

• Stay Compliant and Insured
  As a business owner, you have legal obligations: ensure your business name is registered, tax obligations are met, superannuation paid, workplace safety requirements observed, and you’re adequately insured (public liability, workers compensation, equipment insurance, etc.). Staying compliant protects you from penalties and gives you peace of mind. Review your compliance checklist at least annually to ensure you’re up to date with laws and regulations.

I hope you have gotten even a few points from these top 10 rules. Sometimes we need all need a reminder. I believe it’s important to look at ourselves and ask every week what I can improve on and what area needs me attention this week.