TAKING ON A MANAGER

Handing over your salon’s management can offer a better work-life balance and more time to plan the business’ future. Here’s the NHBF’s guide to finding the best new boss.

Underline key qualities

The first step will be to write a clear description of your salon manager requirements.

Hairdressers are creative individuals, but a good manager needs to have a business mindset as much as a creative one to generate revenue. A manager should have a comprehensive understanding of running a “healthy business”; knowledge of profit margins and breakeven figures is necessary.

Understanding the industry is important and experience within hair salons is also ideal.

A great manager adapts themselves to connect with individuals, and has the skills, personality and experience to manage and understand your particular business model.

Nail your advertising

Ensure your job advert is clear, concise and will grab people's attention. You'll need a short, snappy heading that sums up the vacancy; strong imagery representing your brand and business culture; and an accurate summary of the job, qualifications required, and primary responsibilities. You'll also need to state the hours of work and pay and be clear about how people can apply.

There are several ways to advertise your job vacancy, including:

• Word of mouth
• Placing the job ad in your salon window or by the till
• Posting the job ad in local shops and colleges
• Online job sites – some are free or low cost
• Social media channels
• Your website
• Local newspapers

You could also consider using a specialist recruitment agency who knows the industry. Agencies can help with all aspects of the process, from writing job ads to interviewing.

Interviewing techniques

Prepare a list of questions to ask your interviewee, preferably openended, and always give your interviewee the opportunity to ask any questions they may have. This will allow the conversation to flow, which will provide you with a better understanding of the candidate.

Remember to avoid any questions that may break UK discrimination laws, for example, questions about a candidate's marital status, if they're planning to have children, or their sexual orientation.

NHBF's free 24-hour legal and HR helpline can help NHBF Members with questions about discrimination when employing.

Establish a relationship

It can be hard to let go, but the purpose of having a manager in the first place is to let them deal with the day-to-day job. You must be sure you're prepared to give up the reins. You have to remind yourself that it's their job to make sure that the business is fully staffed, scheduled appropriately, well-stocked, and running smoothly at all times.

Don't step on your manager's toes or watch their every move. But do maintain good communications with them.

Respectfully cutting ties

If things don't work out and you have to start the recruitment process again, do not worry, sometimes it’s not the right fit. Use the lessons learned to find someone more suitable. Always make sure you include a clear probationary period in the contract.

The NHBF offers business support services for salons and chair/space/ room renters, from legal, employment and financial guidance to expert advice for managing people and boosting your business, which you can find at nhbf.co.uk

Join the NHBF before the end of September 2021 and quote HJS25 to get £25 off your membership