We all know, either from first-hand experience or via media coverage, how hard New York has been hit with COVID-19. This week we speak with Melissa McLoughlin owner of MB Studio Salon & Spa in Rochester, NY. Since the time of this recording, hair salons in certain regions have been able to reopen in NY as part of phase 2 announced May 29.
We discuss the impact of COVID-19 on Melissa's business, the impact on her staff, and how the salon experience will change for clients upon re-opening. In addition, we take a look at the challenges of knowing when to go from a sole proprietor to hiring your first staff member...along with the challenges that go along with expanding your team.
Here's a quick overview of what we covered:
The COVID-19 Impact in NY
- Showing up consistently during uncertain times
- The slap in the face that are the high level of restrictions to reopen in NY
- Selling retail to keep income coming in to make ends meet
- The 4 core steps to take to keep your clients and employees engaged
Getting Scrappy: Opening a Salon at the Age of 28
- Attending and graduating high school and hair school at the same time while working multiple jobs
- Transitioning from hairdresser to salon owner
- Building a brand, not just a company
- The Rachel Hollis connection & leadership
Build It: Key Insights When Starting a Business
- Stopping the slippery slope of buying unnecessary business supplies
- If you're not driven and humble, rethink being a business owner
- Hair trends and competitors
- Leveraging social media and YouTube to consistently learn and stay ahead of the game
The Art of Hiring and Expansion
- Hiring staff with the right skillset and culture fit
- The hardest part of hiring
- Social media as a tool to find your next hire
- Know every single part of your business before you hire
Wellness Measures
- Phone reminders with intentional prompts
- The impact of a gratitude journal
Looking Ahead
- The risk of losing clients with re-opening restrictions
- Post-covid plans - exciting expansions in the works
- The concern of a covid outbreak in the winter
Muscle Creative Wrap-Up
If you could listen to only one music artist for the rest of your life who would it be? OneRepublic
Where can people find you online?
- Website
