I just had an aha moment and honestly a very proud moment. I had a another salon owner reach out to me because she said, a little birdie told her we pay up to 4 weeks paid vacation, 6 weeks maternity leave and our salons rotate having the week of Christmas off. I’m not going to lie at first she was a little stand offish and I don’t think she believed me. She didn’t understand how I could provide those type of benefits. Here’s what I told her...

1. I learned the hard way with not knowing my budget or Aveda benchmarks. If we were in the positive that’s all I needed to know. Well, that doesn’t help planning for growth when you don’t have a strategic plan.
Three years ago I hired World Class Financial. They specialize in salons and help you with strategic planning and staying within your benchmarks to be profitable. I also want to add I share our profit and loss statement with our stylists monthly and yearly. Our accountant comes to our salon summit at the end of the year and breaks down the numbers. They’re no secrets. ♥️

2. I also hired a Human Resources Company. We use MRA The Management Association. This helps keep me up to date on ever changing policies on vacation, sick time, etc. it can also get confusing with hourly and commission employees. Better to have those on your side that specialize in this.

3. I barter with my very good friend Emily Williams-Bouska who specializes in policies, procedures, staff reviews and goals. Everyone knows what is expected of them.

4. We use Qnity at all of the salons. The Tuesday Tracker is a better invention that slice bread. Lol!!! Sincerly, reach out to them and see what they can do for your salon.

I list these items because it’s what has gotten us to the point of being able to provide these benefits for our staff. Everyone knows their daily, weekly, monthly and yearly goal. When goals are met, we can provide so much more!!
It starts with open communication and not being afraid of not being the smartest person in the room!!! Surround yourself with those that are smarter then you and can mentor you in being an amazing leader. I have so many more phenomenal people I could list. It goes on and on. Also, give back with your gifts!! Your experiences good or bad as an entrepreneur people want to hear them.

A STORY OF SCALING // by Tricia Rivas