the Hello Hair Pro podcast

Jen & Todd Ford

A place for education, inspiration, and entertainment. Our mission is to help as many hair pros, salon and barbershop owners as possible.

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Episodes

Crafting a Clientele [EP:137]
Yesterday
Crafting a Clientele [EP:137]
Maximizing Client Retention and Building a Lasting ClienteleThis podcast episode focuses on the importance of building a strong clientele in the service industry, particularly targeting professionals like hairstylists. We analyze podcast statistics to understand popular topics among our audience, finding that episodes on raising prices, marketing strategies, and building a clientele are the most popular.We emphasize the significance of focusing on and valuing existing clients rather than solely concentrating on acquiring new ones. The discussion further covers practical advice on enhancing customer service, such as personal follow-ups, accountability, and taking proactive steps to build relationships and trust with clients. We also discuss retention strategies, like improving the client experience through personalized service and attention to detail without necessarily resorting to physical gifts. The episode underscores the necessity of a mindset shift toward positive, solution-focused customer interactions and the compounding effect of consistent, daily actions toward building a successful and fulfilling career.00:00 Kickoff: A Warm Welcome and Podcast Overview00:19 Diving Deep into Building a Clientele00:28 Leveraging Podcast Insights for Growth02:07 The Core Strategy: Valuing Current Clients03:21 Mindset Shift: From Negative to Positive05:07 Accountability and Personal Initiative06:44 Client Communication and Retention Strategies13:25 Professionalism and Going the Extra Mile14:48 Elevating Client Experience: Beyond the Basics15:16 Building a Loyal Clientele: Strategies for Success17:02 Creating a Community: The Power of Engagement19:22 Personal Touches: Making Every Client Feel Special22:54 Marketing Strategies: Standing Out in a Crowded Market26:44 Client-Centric Conversations: Focusing on Their Needs28:55 Conclusion: Recap and Next StepsLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Resilience, Relationships, and Retention [EP:136]
15-04-2024
Resilience, Relationships, and Retention [EP:136]
Enhancing Customer Experience in Salons and BeyondIn this episode, Jen and Todd discuss the importance of creating an amazing and consistent customer experience, drawing parallels between the restaurant industry and salons. They share personal anecdotes to illustrate how unexpected challenges, like gridlock during a family trip, can offer insights into business and life, emphasizing the value of adaptability and positive reactions in uncertain situations. The conversation then shifts to the significance of focusing on training, culture, and systems rather than just aesthetics or amenities in business settings, using salons as an example. They argue that genuine client care and a welcoming atmosphere can vastly improve customer retention rates, demonstrating this through stories from their salon experiences. They also discuss the power of teamwork and creating a supportive environment where everyone feels included and part of something bigger than themselves. They advise business owners to focus on core values and consistently deliver quality service to build a loyal clientele and attract skilled collaborators.If you're interested in joining Todd's email list, CLICK HERE!00:00 Welcome Back and Catching Up00:34 The Unplanned Adventure of the Solar Eclipse01:05 Life and Business Lessons from an Unplanned Journey03:40 Applying Restaurant Success Strategies to Salons06:02 The Importance of Customer Experience Over Amenities08:34 A Personal Story of Persistence and Improvement11:52 Creating a Culture of Hospitality and Service16:42 Building a Team and Business That Stands Out24:40 Reflections and Advice for Business Owners26:22 Closing Thoughts and Invitation for EngagementLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Fear [EP:134]
01-04-2024
Fear [EP:134]
Navigating Business Decisions Without FearIn this episode, a solo Todd discusses the pitfalls of operating a business from a place of fear, specifically in the context of salon ownership. The episode centers around making decisions based on fear, such as retaining problematic employees due to their high sales numbers and the negative long-term impacts of such choices on staff morale and client retention. Todd stresses the importance of leadership and making informed decisions that align with one's values and principles rather than reactive moves driven by fear or immediate financial pressures. The monologue includes advice on exploring new opportunities, the significance of aligning with a business that shares one’s values, and the encouragement of open communication and honesty in navigating career decisions and business operations. Todd concludes by emphasizing the abundance mentality over scarcity and fear, encouraging engagement with the podcast community.00:00 Opening Remarks and Today's Focus on Fear00:19 The Pitfalls of Operating a Business from Fear01:04 Case Study: The High-Earning, Problematic Employee02:38 The Consequences of Ignoring Problematic Behavior03:25 Leadership and Decision Making in Business03:58 Exploring Alternatives: The Debate on Chair Rental06:04 Advice for Employees: Finding the Right Workplace10:31 Closing Thoughts on Fear and EngagementLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Fundamentals [EP:132]
18-03-2024
Fundamentals [EP:132]
Mastering Fundamentals: A Path to SuccessIn episode 132, we discuss the importance of mastering the fundamentals for new and seasoned professionals. We chat about the gaps in practical skills among recent graduates; we emphasize the role of mentors in identifying and addressing areas for improvement. Through anecdotes and experiences, we advocate for focusing on basic skills like correct tool handling and foundational techniques to build a strong career in hairdressing. The conversation also covers the value of professional development, the pitfalls of rushing to raise prices without the necessary skill set, and the benefits of investing time and resources in continual learning.00:00 Kicking Off with Casual Banter00:42 Diving into the Importance of Fundamentals03:41 Sharing Personal Experiences and Teaching Insights08:18 Addressing the Pitfalls of Overcomplicating Techniques10:26 Emphasizing the Value of Basics Over Fancy Tools15:52 Concluding Thoughts on Mastery and Tool Preferences17:00 Mastering the Basics: The Importance of Practice18:13 The Value of Continuous Learning19:40 Embracing Hands-On Learning: Overcoming Fear24:50 The Power of One-on-One Education27:03 Rethinking Education: Small Groups and Personal Growth28:12 Professional Development: Investing in Your Skills29:26 Pricing Strategies: The Fundamentals First30:57 Closing Thoughts: Learning, Mistakes, and GrowthLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Navigating the Salon Industry [EP:131]
11-03-2024
Navigating the Salon Industry [EP:131]
Navigating Salon Culture and EmpowermentThis episode delves into various aspects of working in the hairstyling industry, focusing on the comparison between commission-based and rental salon setups and the challenges faced by employees in navigating salon culture. We discuss a message received from a former employee expressing gratitude for a positive working environment, contrasting it with experiences in less favorable salons. The conversation covers the importance of recognizing bad business practices and the power employees have in choosing to stay or seek better opportunities. The episode emphasizes self-reflection for salon owners and employees, encouraging listeners to think critically about their work environment and advocating for personal and professional growth by exploring different salons and understanding one's core values. Additionally, we touch on broader themes of mental health, coping mechanisms, and the impact of social media on perception and business choices in the salon industry.00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation00:30 Discussing Salon Experiences and Business Owners01:51 Debate on Rental vs Commission Salons02:56 Understanding the Importance of a Good Business Environment05:41 Exploring Different Salons and Their Cultures06:46 The Role of Social Media in Salon Business09:59 Finding the Right Fit in a Salon13:32 Addressing the Issue of Salon Hopping16:11 Discussing Dress Codes and Professionalism in Salons18:01 Comfort in the Salon: The Tracksuit Revolution18:18 The Power of a Positive Salon Experience19:23 The Importance of Self-Reflection and Seeking Guidance19:39 The Role of Personal Responsibility in Professional Growth20:02 The Struggle with Mission Statements and Vision20:41 The Importance of Authenticity in Business Values21:16 The Pitfalls of Forcing Business Values22:05 Pro Tip: The Importance of Integrity in Business23:21 The Role of Mindset in Personal and Professional Growth25:46 The Impact of Physical Activity on Mental Health30:10 The Power of Creativity in Overcoming Depression31:02 The Importance of Self-Care and Coping Mechanisms32:58 The Joy of Spreading Happiness33:56 Closing Thoughts: Embrace Your Unique StyleLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Thoughts on Hiring & Client Retention [EP:130]
04-03-2024
Thoughts on Hiring & Client Retention [EP:130]
Staffing and Client Retention in Salons This week, our conversation covers proactive approaches to hiring, such as participating in career days at local schools and implementing an individualized training process for new hires to assess their strengths and weaknesses. Hiring and firing to maintain a quality team is emphasized, alongside strategies for breaking bad habits and improving consultations to enhance client retention. The discussion also touches on adjusting hiring based on the salon's current needs, the significance of creating a welcoming atmosphere, and the impact of coworker behavior on client experience. Use this conversation to build a strong team and secure long-term clients through refining hiring practices, effective onboarding processes, and excellent client service.00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview00:05 Discussing Staffing Issues and Client Retention01:19 Proactive Approach to Staffing02:26 Individualized Education Plan for New Hires04:26 Importance of Hiring and Firing in Staffing05:44 Challenges and Solutions in Hiring07:03 Defining Hiring Process and Attracting Right Candidates07:41 Importance of Systems in Hiring11:31 Adapting Hiring Strategies to Business Needs15:36 Understanding Client Retention Beyond Numbers18:37 The Power of a Smile: Building Connections18:57 The Art of Consultation: Understanding Client Needs20:24 The Power of Listening: Creating a Personalized Experience21:22 Building Relationships: Beyond the Haircut22:17 The Long-Term Value of a Client: A New Perspective22:55 Breaking Bad Habits: Improving Client Consultations25:35 The Importance of Options: Empowering Clients30:47 The Salon Atmosphere: A Key Factor in Client Retention32:39 Wrapping Up: The Big Picture of Client RetentionLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Outlining Our Salon's 2024 Direction [EP:128]
19-02-2024
Outlining Our Salon's 2024 Direction [EP:128]
Planning, Business Goals, and Core Values for 2024In this episode, we discuss the direction of our salon business for 2024. We cover business goals, planning for the year ahead, reassessing their core values, and looking at past growth to project for the future. We discuss our commitment to staff and customer service, approaching our business from a fresh perspective, and finding new ways to create a strong team culture. We also discuss the importance of education for our staff and maintaining strong community links to give back. We underline the concept of self-care and its impact on the quality of customer service. We also touch upon the importance of careful and deliberate donation practices and looking at ways to delegate responsibilities as part of our future business strategy.00:02 Introduction and Casual Banter00:52 Reflecting on the Past and Planning for the Future01:23 Setting Business Goals and Growth Projections02:24 Maintaining a Healthy Business Culture02:36 Aligning Business with Core Values and Missions03:50 Importance of Self-Care and Happiness in Business06:02 Planning Team Outings and Activities12:29 Emphasizing on Quality Education and Training18:01 Motivating Your Audience18:27 Navigating Technical Difficulties19:10 Discussing Culture and Education19:15 Organizing Donations and Budgeting20:05 Creating Opportunities in the Community21:31 Prioritizing Donations and Business Relationships22:23 Avoiding Slacktivism and Virtue Signaling22:57 Supporting Local Businesses and Clients27:43 Delegating Tasks and Adding a Management Layer28:05 The Importance of Cleaning and Staff Meetings32:25 Considering a Manager for Business Growth36:49 Wrapping Up and Looking ForwardLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Family & Business [EP:127]
12-02-2024
Family & Business [EP:127]
Balancing Business, Family, and Personal GrowthIn this episode, we share our work-life balance experiences, particularly how we manage our salon business, familial responsibilities, and personal growth. Jen shares the high impact of a recent workshop and her journey to Australia for professional development. We discuss the importance of taking breaks for personal replenishment. We also share our perspectives on software tools and organizational methods that facilitate smooth business operations, including different types of calendars, shared to-do lists, booking software, and collaborative tools like Slack for team communication. Finally, we wrap up with an emphasis on managing schedules and ensuring quality family time, making time for vacations, and prioritizing self-care to ensure a healthier work-life integration.00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back00:08 Recap of Last Week's Episode00:49 Discussing Feedback and Fame01:04 Reflecting on a Busy Week01:22 Analyzing Business Growth02:40 Observations on Seasonal Business Trends03:39 Strategies for Business Growth05:58 Balancing Work and Family Life06:24 Returning from Travel and Reintegrating into Work09:25 Reflecting on the Challenges of Balancing Work and Family12:52 Strategies for Managing Time and Staying Organized22:32 The Power of Digital Marketing in Salon Business23:03 Effective Employee Communication in Salons23:47 Leveraging Communication Software in Business25:45 The Importance of Organized Communication Channels26:19 The Power of Shared Lists in Personal and Business Life27:36 The Importance of Set Working Hours27:57 Understanding Individual Workflows and Boundaries29:08 The Importance of Realistic Expectations and Overcoming Burnout29:53 Leveraging Personal Networks for Work-Life Balance32:17 Prioritizing Family Time Amidst Business Demands38:41 The Importance of Mental Breaks and Self-CareLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Jen's Australian Training Adventure [EP:125]
29-01-2024
Jen's Australian Training Adventure [EP:125]
Training with Evo: Reflections and OutcomesIn the podcast, Jen shares her experience attending training with Evo, a hair product brand. She was invited to train with Evo in South Australia and discusses her initial apprehension due to family and business commitments. Throughout the training, Jen learns new techniques, meets the company's founder and other industry professionals, and previews Evo's upcoming product lineup, including new shades in the demi-line, Staino colors, and scalp care treatments. We end the discussion by reflecting on the personal and professional growth gained from the training and emphasizing the importance of shifting mindset when faced with opportunities and challenges.00:00 Introduction and Background00:40 Invitation to Train with Evo02:08 Challenges of Balancing Family and Career04:15 Decision to Accept the Invitation05:30 Testing the Business Systems09:33 Departure and Initial Impressions13:26 Experiences and Learnings from the Training22:42 Creative Content and Learning in the Salon23:03 Highlights and Personal Experiences23:27 Exploring Australia: Wildlife Park and Winery Visit24:11 Networking and Business Discussions24:53 Upcoming Bookings and Teaching Plans25:17 Understanding the Request Process for Education26:17 New Content and Teaching Techniques27:04 Navigating the Education Request Process28:49 Exciting New Product Launches29:10 Brand Development and Future Plans33:55 Travel Experiences and Homesickness34:35 Returning Home and Final ThoughtsLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
A Wellness Perspective [EP:124]
22-01-2024
A Wellness Perspective [EP:124]
Health and Wellness Strategies for Hair ProsIn this conversation, Jen and Todd discuss the importance of health, wellness, and the use of 'clean' products in the hair salon business. Stressing on having a 'why' for everything one does, they talk about selecting product lines that align with their brand ethos instead of being stockists. They reveal some of their daily routines, which include a balanced diet, physical workouts, ample rest, and staying hydrated. The hosts also share pointers on how personal care routines, including salon visits, can be managed to avoid unhealthy habits. They advise doing things that make you feel good and to be consistent about it. 00:01 Introduction and Topic Reveal00:12 Discussing Health and Wellness Products00:47 The Importance of Intent and Purpose in Business01:29 Choosing the Right Product Lines for Your Brand01:53 The Challenges of Stocking Products and Dealing with Companies03:27 The Impact of Impulse Buying on Your Business03:49 The Importance of Having a 'Why' in Your Business08:42 The Role of Product Reps in Your Business10:45 The Importance of Having a Vision for Your Business16:00 The Shift in Salon Branding and Product Selection16:40 Why Good and Clean Products Matter18:23 The Importance of Health and Wellness18:43 Appreciation for Gifts and Friends19:04 Avoiding Burnout and Staying Healthy19:27 The Power of Routine and Consistency20:16 The Importance of Proper Nutrition and Hydration21:17 The Role of Chiropractic Care in Wellness21:54 The Impact of New Year's Resolutions on Wellness23:03 The Importance of Personalized Fitness Routines24:42 The Power of Small Changes in Nutrition29:12 The Importance of Rest and Recovery32:28 The Role of Fun Activities in Wellness33:26 The Importance of Clean Eating34:22 Conclusion: The Key Elements of WellnessLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Social Media's Negative Side [EP:123]
15-01-2024
Social Media's Negative Side [EP:123]
Navigating the Impact of Social Media: A Discussion on Boundaries, Comparison, and the Power of Creation.In this episode, we dive into the negative effects of social media, especially on those who consume it without contributing or creating anything of their own. The conversation touches on the dangers of comparing oneself to often idealized online profiles, the prowling sense of negativity and perfectionism, and customers' confusion when they come across random business boundaries posted online without context.We discuss the importance of intention behind social media use and that it should primarily serve as a platform for sharing and inspiration rather than a source of stress. Social media users should set personal parameters for engagement and use the platform as a tool rather than allow it to consume their time and energy negatively.00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview00:16 Discussing the Negative Effects of Social Media00:58 Personal Experiences with Social Media02:02 Role-Playing: Dealing with Negative Social Media Interactions04:26 The Importance of Creating Content on Social Media09:10 Setting Boundaries on Social Media11:30 The Impact of Social Media on Client Relationships14:32 The Role of Social Media in the Service Industry16:12 Discussing Social Media Boundaries16:59 The Importance of Intent in Social Media17:24 Setting Business Boundaries19:19 The Impact of Copying Social Media Trends20:06 The Importance of Consistency in Policies22:03 The Illusion of Perfection on Social Media23:09 The Dangers of Comparison on Social Media23:33 The Reality Behind Social Media Posts26:16 The Power of Positive Thinking28:23 The Benefits of Creating Content29:39 Conclusion: Living with IntentLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Numbers for Salon Success with Missy Megginson of Schedulicity [EP:122]
08-01-2024
Numbers for Salon Success with Missy Megginson of Schedulicity [EP:122]
Mastering the Numbers in Your Business: A Discussion on Money, Metrics, and More.In this episode, we bring back Missy Megginson of Schedulicity to provide insights on how business owners can pay closer attention to their financial metrics. Look, we get it: numbers and math aren't always fun and often get put on the back burner due to the creative nature of our industry.  It's time to overcome the fear and embrace the insight that knowing and understanding your numbers provides.  Reviewing numbers from the previous year to plan effectively for the next, understanding the significance of calculated decisions in scaling up a business, and the role of client retention. Business strategies for salon owners, particularly pricing and the importance of viewing financial reports before implementing changes. The importance of balancing business goals with client experience and the need to consider key personal business metrics for individual success.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:38 Discussing the Importance of Numbers in Business01:04 Understanding Your Business Metrics01:38 The Impact of Seasonality on Business02:39 The Importance of Tracking Business Numbers05:56 How to Use Numbers to Guide Your Business Decisions06:33 The Role of Numbers in Setting Business Goals06:58 Understanding the Importance of Stable Income07:15 The Dangers of Making Business Decisions Based on Social Media Trends08:10 The Importance of Understanding Profit and Loss Statements10:35 The Role of Numbers in Business Planning11:47 Understanding the Impact of Numbers on Business Decisions12:48 The Importance of Understanding Your Business Numbers15:12 How to Use Numbers to Improve Your Business15:17 The Role of Numbers in Business Strategy15:56 Understanding the Importance of Business Metrics16:57 The Role of Numbers in Business Success26:40 The Importance of Client Retention in Business28:36 The Importance of Client Experience29:02 Understanding Your Client's Needs29:43 The Impact of Your Service on Client Retention30:14 The Role of Atmosphere in Client Experience30:43 The Misconception of Amenities in Client Experience33:45 The Value of Client Communication34:52 The Importance of Knowing Your Numbers35:11 The Pitfalls of Comparing Your Business to Others35:52 The Importance of Making Your Service About the Client39:35 Understanding Your Business Metrics41:16 The Role of Pricing in Your Business46:35 The Impact of Location on Your Business49:55 The Importance of Knowing Your Numbers for Business DecisionsLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Happy New Year! [EP:121]
01-01-2024
Happy New Year! [EP:121]
Planning Goals and Building Strategies for 2024The episode covers creating a successful plan and strategy for the New Year.Tools like planners and developing a robust strategy with action steps are highlighted.The importance of consistency and honesty in content production is emphasized, with an anecdote about social media growth via YouTube shorts as a supporting example.The conversation veers into creating educational content for hair stylists.Finally, the importance of adapting strategies to individual needs and circumventing a 'cookie cutter' approach is stressed, along with the open-mindedness to alter strategies when they aren't serving their purpose.Happy New Year, and thank you for listening!  We've got an amazing 2024 planned for the show and can't wait to get new and exciting content to you.00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings00:32 Discussion on Goal Setting for the New Year00:53 Understanding the Difference Between Strategy and Plan02:02 The Importance of Consistency and Planning02:42 Challenges and Learning Experiences in Content Creation03:54 The Impact of Social Media on Content Distribution07:47 Experiences with YouTube Content Creation09:57 The Importance of Metrics in Content Creation10:35 Repurposing Video Content for Social Media10:52 Navigating the Learning Curve of Content Creation11:24 The Importance of Consistency in Content Creation11:42 The Pitfalls of Inconsistent Posting11:50 The Strategy of Slow and Steady Content Release12:04 Understanding Social Media Algorithms12:14 The Difference Between Consistency and Frequency12:25 The Pitfalls of Bulk Posting13:14 Planning for Content Creation13:25 The Promise of Educational Content13:45 The Importance of Relatable Content15:45 The Plan for Creating Educational Content20:17 The Importance of Personalized Business Strategies20:26 Understanding Different Business Models in the Industry21:13 Closing Remarks and New Year WishesLinks and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Motivate & Inspire People [EP:119]
18-12-2023
Motivate & Inspire People [EP:119]
Motivating Your Salon Team: Proven Strategies and IdeasDuring this chat, Jen and Todd discuss strategies they've used to motivate their salon team, emphasizing the importance of creating an engaging and fun environment. They share their experiences implementing a Google reviews challenge, creating a contest that rewards staff for obtaining a certain number of reviews. This approach increased digital exposure for their salon ('Hello') and recognition for individual staff members. They also share about organizing team outings, partnering with local businesses for events, and participating in community initiatives. The hosts stress the importance of getting outside the salon to network, have fun, and provide value to others, underscoring that motivation can be driven by fun activities and social engagement.00:04 Introduction and Welcome00:24 Discussing New Recording Software00:51 Starting a Podcast: Tips and Tricks01:28 Diving into Motivation01:42 Motivating Staff and Its Importance02:03 The Trickle Effect of Motivation02:47 Challenges in Motivating Staff03:21 Increasing Digital Reach and Staff Motivation06:56 The Google Reviews Challenge11:17 The Impact of Google Reviews on Business14:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement14:44 The Power of Google Reviews15:38 Avoid Overexplaining: The Art of Enticement16:16 The Importance of Team Engagement16:45 Understanding Google's Photo Approval Process18:49 The Impact of Client Reviews19:26 Leveraging Local Connections for Business Growth21:37 Community Engagement: Volunteering at Local Events24:22 Networking and Team Building: Attending Industry Events26:39 Exploring Fun Team OutingsReach out if you want to learn how we can help your business!Links and Stuff:Our (weekly) Email ListFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website