Managing a salon team can feel like herding cats—or in my case, training a very stubborn dog.
Let me explain.
My dog, Teddy, has a step-brother, Harry (my partner’s dog).
They’re the same age, both Cavapoos, practically twins.
But there’s one major difference…
Harry acts like Mike Tyson every time he leaves the house.
We’ve tried everything:
✔ Doggy rehab
✔ Electric collars
✔ Endless advice from trainers
Nothing worked.
Until I met a K9 unit trainer—someone who trains police dogs to take down criminals.
He told me he could fix it in one session…
The Secret to Training Dogs (and Salon Teams)
What I learned from this K9 trainer is that, whilst you can lay the foundations for great behaviour in one session, it’s the reinforcement over the coming weeks, months and years that really matters.
And it got me thinking about team management in salons.
Because whether it’s dogs or people, three things matter.
1. Consistency is Everything
Training isn’t a one-time event. Neither is leading a salon team. The best results come from regular reinforcement.
2. Clear Leadership is a Non-Negotiable
Dogs—and people—need to know who’s in charge. A salon with strong leadership and clear expectations thrives. A salon without it? Chaos.
3. The Best Owners Track the Right Behaviours
Just like trainers track progress and reinforce good behaviour, successful salon owners track key performance numbers to keep their businesses growing.
Why Every Salon Needs a Weekly 15-Minute Meeting
Most problems in a salon team can be solved with one simple habit.
A weekly 15-minute check-in.
What Should You Track in These Meetings?
✔ How many clients did they see?
✔ How many rebooked?
✔ How much revenue did they bring in?
✔ How many retail products did they sell?
✔ How many add-on services (plexes, K18, etc.) did they offer?
Think of it like a scorecard.
Because if you’re not tracking the numbers, how do you know if your salon is winning or losing?
Will the K9 Trainer’s Advice Work for Harry?
Time will tell.
But one thing’s for sure…
Consistency always wins.
Bye for now,
Wizdom
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