How hairdressers handle Covid-19 ‘split ends’
Hairdressers in Bela-Bela had more than their fair share of challenges during the Covid-19-pandemic.
During level four and five of the Covid-19-pandemic, all salons were closed. This was not only a disruption in the services supply chain but the income of hairdressers and beauticians throughout the country was affected by this ban.
The suppliers of stock also took a hit as products with limited shelf life were gathering dust in warehouses. However, business has since returned to a new normal and very stringent guidelines are in place to protect customers.
In order to encourage and empower hairdressers in the local industry, a hairdressing seminar was held on Wednesday 20 October at the Bela-Bela Community Hall. The challenges of keeping afloat post Covid-19 was high on the agenda.
“You have to ask yourself what is an objective goal for the next five years of your business,” said Tshepiso Gwala, technical educator for the Loreal brand during the seminar.
Gwala mainly specializes in the training of hairdressing salon owners in Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
“A salon flourishes on a special relationship with clients. You have to keep up with trends and give the service and attention each client is entitled too or they will go elsewhere. If you do not impress them with every appointment, you can be certain your salon will suffer for it,” said Gwala.
He indicated that business owners should not fall back in a comfort zone now that regulations are less stringent.
“If you do not advertise in local newspapers, distribute pamphlets, contact exis- ting clients, offer specials or increase the range of products within your salon, you will not see a rise in the projection of your business. Offer your clients coffee, tea, even champagne, if you can. Broaden your product range and make them feel special,” said Gwala.
“Schools can be a huge asset if you have the goodwill of their staff and learners. They have numerous functions during a school year that requires a hairdresser’s magic touch. Offer your services and stay abreast of fashion trends. Be flexible with your hours and take loyal customers into consideration. Your database or record of each visit is a vital instrument in a continuous relationship. You need to have all the information at hand when a client visits your salon. They must feel special and know they are cared for with your attention to detail.”
Gwala also gave encouragement to those who do not receive fixed salaries but work on a commission basis.
“I started at 07h00 in the morning and left at 20h00 when I was a hairdresser. I was not scared to take a salon chair next to the veteran hairdresser. I learned from the best and became the best, gaining a better, but still humble, reputation.”
“Hairdressing is not limited to scissors, product, and a mirror. Once a steady flow of capital is reached, people can consider investing in property or delivery of products to customers as a means of expansion.”
Although the competition between salons can be fierce and gossip damaging, it is essential that salon workers have respect for other salons since it will build up a community.
To conclude his presentation, Gwala stressed that every hairdresser should be accredited and must be knowledgeable on the products they use to further gain customer satisfaction.
He said that additional training programmes will be held in the near future to help struggling and upcoming hairdressers get back on their feet after an arduous two years of Covid-19.
