Have you ever described yourself as “just a therapist”? The temptation to be self-deprecating at work is real and very common amongst beauty industry professionals. It’s a learned behaviour that is often driven by the desire to be humble about our achievements.

But here’s the thing: Beauty is a multi-billion industry that makes real changes in the lives of our clients. There’s value in the work that we do, and when you “just” yourself, you sell yourself massively short. So if self-deprecation is your default setting, there’s so much to be gained by increasing your professional visibility.

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Investing in yourself = investing in your business

Regardless of whether you’re a solo operator or running a mid-sized operation, being a business owner is a tough gig. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day comings and goings. By seeking out business advice from a mentor who understands the challenges of the beauty industry, you’re not only investing in your business but also investing in your own personal growth.

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Taking your business to the next level

Using professional systems, such as Timely Business Management Software, will take your business to the next level. You don’t need to be flashy to run a business worthy of serious software.

Implementing business management software will streamline your communications and services, ensuring you put your best foot forward from the moment a new or existing client interacts with your salon online. Stepping up your digital processes (think: digital consultation forms, online bookings, automated SMS reminders) makes for a top-notch first impression, showing the world that you’re running a slick, high-quality operation. It can feel like a big step going digital but remember – you and your business are worth the investment.

Plus, there’s a lot to be gained from having data at your fingertips. With Timely, you can quickly access reports and data that will help you run your business in a smart, efficient way. On average, Timely-powered businesses reduce no-shows by 30 per cent, boost their rebooking rate by 20 per cent, and increase total sales by up to 94 per cent.

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Knowing when to outsource

Are you one of the many business owners who still self-identifies as a hairdresser or beauty therapist? When you try to do everything, you put yourself on a fast track to burnout. Step into your power as a capable businessperson by learning to outsource.

Timely streamlines your admin so you can focus on the big picture. Using Timely, you can take your bookings online, allowing clients to book 24/7 via Instagram, Facebook and your website. The software can also send appointment reminders, rebooking prompts, and review requests (amongst other things).  

If you can’t sing your own praises, let your customers to do it for you

Did you know that 81 per cent of customers do their research before spending their hard-earned money? Positive reviews are a powerful digital marketing tool that can help your small business attract new customers via Google, Facebook and your own website.

If you struggle to sing your own praises, let your customers do it for you! You can automate the process with Timely by sending out email or SMS prompts asking for a review in the days following a service. Just ask them to share a quick account of their experience and let the reviews roll in.

By investing in Timely, you can step up your offering and feel confident that you’re delivering a best-in-class client experience from start to finish.

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Original article written by Melanie Wallace and featured here

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