The Art of Business

One of the first things I learned as a salon owner is that every stylist needs a road map for success. So how do we lead? How do we establish benchmarks for them in all aspects of technical, communication, marketing and leadership skills?

philip pelusi
philip pelusi

The first step is to establish a chart for things like men's cuts, bobs, layering, scissor-over-comb and proprietary techniques such as release-cutting. Finishing techniques like blow-drying with a round brush for ventilation and using curling and flat irons, to list a few, should also be rated. In addition to scoring techniques, stylists should be rated on the frequency of returning clients, both new and existing, as well as referrals from existing clients.

Once the rating system is in place you can establish a pricing level system of advancement beginning, for example, with L1, which would be entry level capable of charging, say, $29, Intermediate at a rate of $32, a Master charging $38 and, finally, Director at a rate of $45. Stylists should be consistently reviewed. New stylists should be reviewed every month, more advanced staff can be reviewed quarterly, and established stylists can be reviewed biennially.

If you have questions on how to implement a skill-certification program, contact me at [email protected]. —Philip Pelusi is a salon owner and product manufacturer.