Is your salon prepared to unexpectedly close its doors tomorrow? When was the last time you considered how vulnerable a beloved small beauty salon can be in a crisis? A few years ago, the smooth operation of salons was thrown into a completely new reality overnight – yes, it was the COVID-19 pandemic that shook the entire beauty industry. I believe none of us want to revisit those times, but the lessons learned remain invaluable – and they could save your business, no matter what the future holds.

The first moments of a crisis: sudden shock and rapid adaptation

Imagine: you walk into your salon in the morning with a full schedule, only to hear by lunchtime that you must close indefinitely. What happens next? This is where the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations becomes clear – not only in terms of masks and sanitizers but, above all, financial security and communication.

Here are the key issues that quickly come to the forefront:

  • Revenue disappears immediately, but fixed costs remain: rent, utilities, payroll – these don’t take a break during a crisis.
  • Employees and clients expect answers, even if you don’t have them yet. Honest and transparent communication becomes essential.
  • Agility is crucial: those who managed to rethink their operations and keep their doors (virtually) open came through the situation stronger.

But what exactly should you do when life suddenly “shuts down”?

Cost cutting: where to start to stay afloat quickly?

First – the biggest fear for any new business owner: expenses keep running, but income stops. Don’t panic! List all your expenses. Draw a line and ask yourself – what can you temporarily live without?

  • Call your landlord and request a payment extension or temporary discount. Be open about your business situation – chances are, they want to help you too.
  • Critically evaluate every expense: consider which orders, lease payments, or subscriptions can be paused.
  • Talk directly with your employees: is a temporary leave, schedule change, or alternative tasks possible?
  • Protect your data and assets! Your salon’s equipment might remain unaffected, but keeping your documentation in order can save you a lot in the future.

Most importantly: never cut corners when it comes to your salon’s backbone – employee safety, your salon’s good reputation, and your own mental well-being.

How to maintain client communication remotely?

One of the biggest mistakes during a crisis is disappearing entirely from your clients’ view. In fact, now more than ever, clients expect you to be there a little more than usual! What can you do right away?

  • Automated notifications are priceless. Software like SalonLife allows you to quickly reach all clients: inform them, share advice, and maintain connection. Read how automatic reminders can help on our blog: salon automated notifications.
  • Personalized messages: gift cards, tips for inspiration, or even a simple “How are you doing?” create the feeling that you truly care.
  • Social media as a virtual lounge: weekly care tips, at-home haircare hacks, small giveaways, or humorous posts help keep spirits high. Get ideas from our article 5 effective social media post ideas for beauty professionals.
  • Announce when and how you’ll reopen. Keep your digital channels open – it’s an investment in the future.

Not everyone will come back immediately, but those you support during tough times will appreciate you even more after the crisis.

Can a salon make money during a crisis? Yes, if you’re creative!

You might ask: “How can I sell anything right now when clients aren’t coming through the door?” The answer lies in the courage to think outside the box:

  • Home care kits: assemble and sell special care packages for hair, skin, or nails. You can deliver them yourself or arrange contactless courier service.
  • Virtual consultations: one-on-one video calls or “beauty coffee” with friends on Zoom – why not?
  • Launching an online store quickly: with help from SalonLife, you can swiftly create a product selection complete with payment solutions, so you can focus on client interaction and content creation.
  • Online gift cards: accelerate cash flow and encourage clients to plan future appointments.

Consider every step carefully – how will products be delivered, which payment method fits best, and why this offer might genuinely help your clients.

Back to smooth salon operations – confidently, thoughtfully, and ambitiously

When things calm down and doors reopen, you'll be faced with a somewhat new world. Will everything flow smoothly again? Success lies in transparent communication and flexibility:

  • Inform clients about updated policies and options: automated emails and notifications help get the message across quickly and clearly. (See also: automated notification solutions for salons)
  • Offer personal discounts: especially to those who were active clients before the crisis – good client management software (CRM) can quickly generate these lists.
  • Share photos and small wins on social media: show what your team has been up to and how your salon cares for health. For inspiration on creating an even more attractive brand image, check out: Design your beauty salon’s brand with effective branding strategies.
  • Maintain flexibility in appointment booking – not everyone will rush back at once, and that's perfectly normal.

The most important thing: don’t push or force – genuine care is ultimately your best competitive advantage.

Why do some salons survive extraordinary times, while others don’t? Take a moment to reflect on your salon – what are your strengths, and do any of these lessons need to be applied immediately? In the next chapter, we’ll dive deeper into managing difficult situations: how to handle stress and burnout. Before helping others, you need to take care of your own well-being. Are you ready?