Quick Business Audit: Metrics to Review and Goals to Revise
July is the perfect time to pause and evaluate how your year is going. Review your booking software or POS reports to identify your most popular services, peak days, and top-spending clients. Compare revenue to your January goals—are you on track? If not, dig into the “why.” Consider trimming underperforming services or raising prices where demand is high. Track client retention, rebooking rates, and retail-to-service ratios. Then set two or three focused goals for Q3—whether it’s hitting a monthly sales target, growing your email list, or selling X number of retail bundles. Don’t forget to celebrate wins, too. Reflecting on your progress builds momentum and keeps burnout at bay.
Freshening Up Your Brand Online (Social Media, Website, Signage)
A polished, updated brand shows clients you’re current and invested. Start with your website—update service descriptions, switch out seasonal imagery, and refresh your about section. Then audit your Instagram bio, highlights, and pinned posts. Replace outdated menus or pricing signs in your studio with on-brand, easy-to-read versions. Update your selfie wall or decor to better reflect your aesthetic. Need inspiration? Look at what successful pros in your niche are doing and adapt their ideas to your brand. Bonus tip: batch-create some new branded content (before-and-afters, service reels, testimonials) during your slower July weeks so you’re stocked for busier seasons.
Client Loyalty Tactics: Mid-Year Specials, VIP Programs
Now’s the time to reward your regulars and reignite engagement. Create a mini client appreciation campaign—think exclusive early booking access, birthday freebies, or “Summer VIP Cards” that reward them after a certain number of visits. You can also introduce a mid-year rebooking incentive: clients who pre-book three future services get a free add-on or gift. If you haven’t already, build a simple loyalty program using digital punch cards or apps like Square Loyalty. Personal touches like handwritten thank-you cards or surprise upgrades go a long way, especially in slower months when you have more time to connect.
Getting Ahead: Planning Your Fall and Holiday Offerings Now
You may be in flip-flops, but fall is closer than you think—and smart pros plan early. Start sketching out your fall service menu, back-to-school promos, and even holiday-themed facial or hair packages. Reach out to your vendors now for sneak peeks of holiday kits and get on their preorder lists to avoid supply issues. Draft a Q3-Q4 content calendar that includes product drops, booking pushes, and email blasts. Want to really get ahead? Start designing your Black Friday and holiday promotions now, while you’re not overwhelmed. This forward planning not only reduces stress but gives you time to tweak and test for better results.