Last update: Oct 17, 2022  

Marketing a Hair Salon: Salon Marketing Idea Guide to develop the best marketing strategy

Are you the owner of a salon? And do you want to beat your local competitors in 2022? If so, this step-by-step guide to marketing a hair salon is for you!

To be successful, you need a plan and to know who you're trying to reach.

First, you must figure out what makes your business special (USP). What's different about your salon from the others?

Once you know your USP, you can start making a marketing plan to help you reach your target market.

Think about how you will reach your target market (online, offline, or both? ). This hair salon marketing guide will give you many ideas you can implement!
By following this guide and implementing the tips, you'll be well on your way to dominating the salon industry in 2022!

Build Your Salon Business Plan with effective salon marketing strategies and hair stylist marketing ideas

Marketing a hair salon

How do you define a target market for salon marketing strategies?

To define a target market for salon marketing strategies, you need to answer these questions first:
  • Who is most likely to use my product or service?
  • What needs does my product or service meet?
  • What are the characteristics of my ideal customer?
From there, you can start developing salon marketing ideas to grow your customer base.

How can you find salon promo ideas?

When searching for salon promo ideas, you must know what your competition is doing. Take the time to check the website and social media of your competition.

This way, you can gain valuable insights that will help you improve your own ideas.

How can you measure marketing for a salon?

The best way to measure the success of your business plan for marketing a salon is by tracking both new clients and revenue each month.

This will give you a complete picture of how well your salon strategies work.
If you see that both new clients and revenue are increasing each month, then congratulations. Your salon business plan is working!

How hair salon marketing ideas and advertising ideas will get you more new clients

Hair salon marketing

As a business owner, you are always looking for ways to get more customers.

After all, more customers mean more business and more money.

But how do you go about advertising and marketing your salon so that you can get the most new customers possible?

There are several ways to advertise and market yourself as a hairdresser.

You can use traditional methods like print ads or word-of-mouth. Or you can use more modern methods like online advertising or social media marketing.

Get creative with salon promotions and marketing ideas for hairstylists

No matter which method you choose to promote your business, the important thing is to be creative and think outside the box.
It's important that you stand out from the competition - something which many salon owners don't give enough attention to.

First, increase the revenue of all your salon marketing ideas!

Web Conversion Booster

These days, when people are looking for a local hairdresser, whether to get their hair done or search for a nail salon, 90% of them check online reviews first.

So why wouldn't you display your best reviews on your website?

Existing customers who are satisfied and talk about your hair styling and hair services are the best advertisement you can wish for!

You will quickly gain the trust of your website visitors and instantly increase your website's conversion.

But there is something else to consider as well.

Since most salon tips lead to extra traffic back to your website, this will automatically increase the revenue of all your marketing activities!
Click here to learn more about the newest technology to live-stream your 5-star Google reviews on every webpage of your website!

Re-book salon clients during the visit

Re-book salon clients during the visit

One of the best salon marketing strategies for a local salon is to re-book clients during a visit.

Implementing this effective marketing strategy will take your salon to the next level and help get you started to get regular appointments.

However, it's something many salons don't do, so make sure you don't forget this and make this a routine besides the additional salon marketing ideas you implement.
Always ensure when customers come to the salon that you offer to re-book them during their visit!

Enable Online Salon Appointment Booking on your salon website

Online salon appointment booking

Why Online Appointment Booking software is one of the most important hair salon tools

Salon appointment booking is one of the most important salon software tools.

Its features help to avoid overbooking, reduce cancellations and improve efficiency in your business.

But in the end, it's simply one of the best marketing ideas to help get you more clients and get your business running.

Because did you know that most customers book their appointment online?

Also, research from Phorest Salon Software showed that only 54% of appointment bookings happen during salon and spa opening hours.

What are the other benefits of using online appointment booking as a salon marketing tool?

Other benefits of online appointment booking for scheduling appointments are that the process is seamless and straightforward.

A booking feature is super user-friendly for your potential customers.

All you have to do is publish your booking page link on a website, send an email with a link, or post a link on your social media.

This makes it easy for clients to use your salon appointment booking system.

Advantages of using text message reminders as appointment reminders

By sending appointment reminder messages, you can reduce the number of no-shows and increase your revenue.

Besides, your no-show rate is important for your revenue; it's irritating when people don't show up, and in the long run, using text message reminders will save you a lot of time, money and frustration.

Most appointment booking software does contain this appointment reminder option.
If you don't have an appointment booking system, you miss out on many customers!

Get your salon visible on the Google Search result page to get new clients

Google Search optimization for hair salons

As a business owner, you know that one of the essential strategies to get new clients is visibility. And with so many people using the internet these days, it's mainly about online visibility.

If potential customers can't find your salon on Google Maps or in the local Google search results, they will book an appointment with one of your competitors.

That's why it's crucial to ensure your website and Google Business profile (formerly known as Google My Business) are optimized for search engines.

This means using the right keywords and phrases so that you show up when people are searching for salons in your area.

Finally, when setting up a search campaign, be as specific as possible with the words you use to describe the services you offer.

This will help increase click-through rates and ensure potential customers book appointments with you because they know exactly what you offer.
If potential customers can't find your salon on Google, they will book an appointment with one of your competitors.

Run Google Ads to get more clients looking for different salons in your area

Google Ads for hairdressers

Google Ads are online advertisements that appear on Google search results pages. It can be an effective way to reach new customers.

Especially because with Google ads, you can target potential customers in your city who are already interested in what you have to offer.

Additionally, Google Ads can be a cost-effective form of marketing and is also known as pay-per-click advertising.
An advantage of running Google Ads is that you only have to pay when someone clicks on your ad, so you can decide the budget you want to spend.

Manage and ask clients to leave online salon reviews to build your salon brand

Online salon reviews

Why are online reviews important?


Positive online reviews can be highly beneficial for your business. It's word-of-mouth marketing but then online.

They help to build your brand and reputation, attract new customers, and boost your bottom line.

On the other hand, negative ones can do just the opposite.

That's why it's so important to manage your online reputation actively.

If a customer has feedback about their experience, ensure you respond to client reviews promptly and satisfactorily.

If you cannot resolve the issue, try to apologize and explain why the situation happened.

And lastly, other advantages of Google reviews.

Google reviews are the second biggest ranking factor to rank your beauty business in Google Maps.

You can even rank for keywords your customers use in their reviews on Google! So there is a huge advantage to focusing on reviews.

What are the best ways to get more online reviews?


You can do a few things to encourage your clients to leave you an online review.

First, you can ask them directly after their appointment if they would be willing to leave a review.

You can also post signs in your business or on your website asking for reviews.

If you wonder what's the best moment to ask for a review, I have a simple tip! The moment someone says 'thank you' is the best moment to ask for a review!

The ideal is when you have an automatic review system, so your customers get step-by-step instructions on leaving you a review without you having to explain everything.

This is customer-friendly and saves you a lot of time.
90% of people check online reviews before contacting a business, it's the biggest reason why people choose a business, and for Google rankings, reviews can make a huge difference. So make sure you focus on online reviews!

Market your salon on Google Business, Yelp, and other online directories to get new salon clients

hair salon online directories

Google Business marketing for hair salons

To create a business profile on Google Business, first sign up for a free account on the platform.

Then, create a listing for your business, including all relevant information, such as your business name, address, hours of operation, and contact information.

Once your listing is created, you can add your logo, photos and videos to show off your services and products.

Finally, encourage customers to leave reviews of your business to help boost your profile's visibility and credibility.

Creating a profile on Yelp


Creating a profile on Yelp is important as it helps to improve your visibility online and attract new customers.

Setting up a profile is quick and easy, and you can add as much or as little information as you like.

Adding photos, videos, and detailed service name descriptions can help to make you stand out from the competition.

Why you should create a profile on other online directories as well


The main benefit of having as many online directory listings as possible is creating more opportunities for potential clients to find your business.

It also helps with rankings to be listed on well-known directories.
If you're listed on the most important online directories, you will get found by potential customers and rank better in the Google search results.

Always Carry Business Cards with your business information

Hair salon business cards

Business cards are one of the essential marketing tools for any business.

A well-designed business card can make a lasting impression on potential clients. Plus, it helps you to stand out from your competitors.

Make sure that you always have plenty of business cards on hand. This way, you never miss an opportunity to market your business.

Also, make sure your salon receptionist can give away business cards. This makes it easier for people to make an appointment for their next visit.
With a little effort, you can ensure that marketing efforts like this successfully attract new clients and grow your business.

Use an Email Marketing Strategy and Run a Salon Newsletter to link back to your website

hair salon newsletter

How can you use email marketing in your salon business?


You can use email marketing to increase revenue by building trust with clients.

You develop relationships, and email newsletters are ideal for keeping clients updated on haircare tips, new services and offers.

Using newsletters is an ideal way to drive traffic to your salon website!

Send emails with articles about hair care tips and styling tips

If you're a hairdresser, then you know that keeping your clients informed about the latest trends and styles is essential to maintaining a successful business.

And one of the best ways to do this is by email newsletters.

This will not only keep your clients engaged, but it will also show them that you're an expert in your field.

And remember to include calls to action! Encourage your clients to book appointments or take advantage of special offers.
Email marketing will not only boost sales, but you'll also build loyalty among your clientele.

Salon post, video and hashtags ideas for beauty salon social media marketing

Hair salon social media
It's an ideal marketing method to promote your business, hair products, other products and services, salon events and show pictures of your customers with their new hair or nails.

You can promote your salon on Instagram, Facebook, and other social media accounts. There are a few different ideas for social media posts. There are a few different ideas for social media posts.

One idea is to post before and after photoshoots of clients whose hair or makeup was done at the salon or other examples of haircuts and hairstyles.

Another idea is to post photos of the staff, your location and details of facilities. Finally, another idea is to post tips or advice on hair and makeup.

Another thing to keep in mind is to always use hashtags with your salon post and videos! Hashtags are a great way to help people find your content.

It’s important to use hashtags related to your brand, salon business, services and location. Avoid using too many hashtags in one post because it looks spammy and unprofessional.
Social media is a great digital marketing channel to help you get started and help you grow your business.

Social Media advertising for beauty salons


Facebook advertising (or advertising on other social media) for beauty salons is a great way to reach out to potential customers.

But also to build brand awareness, connect with your target audience and boost your sales.

While there are many ways to attract new clients, social media advertising is one of the most effective methods.

Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest offer businesses a way to reach their target audience with laser precision.

And when used correctly, social media advertising campaigns can be an extremely powerful tool for boosting sales.

The key to using social media advertising effectively is creating relevant and engaging ads for your target audience.

Posting at the right times, beautiful visuals, catchy hashtags, and relevant quality content will all help you get in front of your ideal clients and promote your services in a way that resonates with them.
Social media advertising is a great way to reach out to potential customers, build brand awareness, connect with your target audience, and boost sales.

Birthday promotions for spa & salon advertising

Birthday promotions salon

Birthday promotions are a marketing tactic in which businesses offer free or discounted goods to people who visit during their birthday month.

It is an easy way for beauty companies to keep customers coming back for their next hair cut or other appointments.

To be able to contact your customers, you can make use of email marketing or sms marketing / text message marketing.
Birthday promotions are an easy way for you to build a relationship with your customers and get them back into your salon!

Offer Referral Discounts programs and other unique salon discount ideas like a loyalty program or loyalty cards


Discounts are a great way to keep your customers coming back. Offer referral discounts for customers who refer new clients to you.

Other unique salon discount ideas include a loyalty program where customers earn points for every visit.

These can be redeemed with gift cards for free services or products.
It's always easier to sell to existing customers, and offering discounts is a great way to ensure existing customers keep coming back!

Form Partnerships with Other Local Businesses and get Involved in Your Community

Local community

Forming partnerships with other local businesses or communities is a great way to get involved in your community.

By working together, you can help each other out. An example would be to create combi offers so both businesses will profit from working together.

There are many benefits to partnering up with other businesses. It’s definitely something worth considering.

And besides other businesses, you can also consider implementing an influencer marketing by getting in touch with a salon influencer or connecting with local newspapers and other news websites to tell your story.
Remember to take advantage of the opportunities to get involved with your local community and work with other local businesses!

Give Away Salon Promotional Items and salon specials


Give away promotional items and specials to get new clients in the door. Promote your salon by giving away free hairstyling services or discounts on services.

Simply give new clients a reason to try out your salon.

You can communicate these giveaways and discounts on your website, social media and, of course, in your salon.
Giving away promotional items and specials and communicating these on social media is a great way to get new clients in the door!

Other unique salon service ideas and beauty salon package ideas

Beauty salon

Other unique salon service ideas include express services, like blowouts or mini-makeovers, as well as more indulgent experiences, like scalp treatments, foot soaks, or hand massages.

You can also package several discounted services, like a blowout and makeup application or a haircut and colour.

To stand out from the competition, you need to offer unique services that potential customers can't find elsewhere.
By offering unique services and beauty packages, you'll be able to attract new clients and keep them coming back for more.

Conclusion on this hairdresser marketing guide


As you can see, there are many ideas from this hairdresser marketing guide that you can implement right away.

When starting your competitor research, you will immediately notice that most of your competitors use only a few of the proven strategies listed in this guide. Don't be one of them!
Getting more salon clientele is easy; you just have to implement the right strategy. Good luck, and if you have any questions, just let me know!
Paul Verhey
Paul Verhey

Hey! My name is Paul Verhey, and I've been helping businesses get more customers with Google search optimization for over 15 years.

However, from this experience, I can assure you one thing:

One of the simplest and cheapest methods of generating more customers is simply leveraging your website traffic.

And think about it - Getting more customers from your current website will also benefit all your other online marketing activities!

That's why I'm co-founder of the Web Conversion Booster. Click here to learn more: https://webconversionbooster.net/
© 2022 Paul Verhey. All rights reserved.