Marketing

Marketing for Hairdressers – How to Get More Clients in Your Chair

Marketing can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be – especially for hairdressers. Unlike big companies that compete in a global market, your audience is local, and your service is personal. That means you don’t need massive advertising budgets to attract clients – you just need to be visible in the right places and build connections with the right people. When someone needs a haircut, color, or styling, they typically look for a hairdresser nearby. They want someone they can trust and a salon where they feel comfortable. That’s why marketing for hairdressers isn’t about shouting the loudest – it’s about being present, building trust, and showing what you can do.

Be Seen in Your Local Area

When new clients search for a hairdresser, they usually start with Google or ask a friend. That’s why it’s essential that your salon is easy to find – both online and through word of mouth. A great place to start is Google My Business, where you can ensure your salon appears in local searches. Keep your profile updated with your opening hours, photos, and client reviews. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are also powerful tools for increasing your visibility. Share before-and-after photos, short videos with hair care tips, or behind-the-scenes glimpses of your salon. Potential clients want to see who you are and what you do before booking an appointment. Make it easy for them to choose you. Another effective strategy is to collaborate with other local businesses. Perhaps you can partner with a coffee shop where clients get a discount on a drink when they show their salon receipt? Or maybe a boutique can recommend your salon while you send clients their way? These types of partnerships can be a game-changer.

Capture Attention with Engaging Content

Social media isn’t just about posting pictures – it’s about creating conversations and relationships. If you post a video of a new hair color technique or a bridal updo, ask a question in the caption: "Which hairstyle would you choose for your next big event?" or "What hair color have you always wanted to try?". This encourages engagement, which increases your reach. Stories and live videos are also great for giving followers a behind-the-scenes look. Show a day in your salon, share a fun client moment (with permission, of course), or demonstrate how you use your favorite products. The more personal and authentic you are, the stronger your connection with clients will be.

Promotions & Offers – Without Undervaluing Your Work

Discounts and offers can be effective for bringing in new clients, but they need to be done wisely. Instead of simply lowering prices, focus on value. A "Bring a Friend and Get a Free Hair Treatment" promotion can get you two new clients instead of just one. A "First Visit Discount” can encourage new clients to give you a try – but make sure they have a reason to return. A good loyalty program can be even more effective. If a client knows they’ll receive a discount or a free service after five visits, they’re much more likely to return. Small gestures like sending a birthday message with a special gift can also make a client feel valued.

Email & SMS – The Secret Weapon Many Hairdressers Ignore

Many hairdressers focus only on social media for marketing, but email and SMS are still extremely effective. A simple reminder like "It’s been three months since your last haircut – shall we book your next appointment?" can be enough to bring a client back. A monthly email newsletter with hair tips, product recommendations, or exclusive offers can also work wonders. When you have a direct channel to your clients, you can easily build strong relationships and ensure they think of you when they need their next haircut.

Branding – What Makes Your Salon Unique?

Many hairdressers don’t think about branding, but it’s a crucial part of marketing. What sets your salon apart from others in your area? Do you specialize in balayage? Curls? Men’s grooming? Natural looks? It’s important to find your niche and communicate it clearly. Branding also includes having a cohesive visual identity. Your salon’s color scheme, logo, and social media posts should create a recognizable experience. Clients should be able to see a picture of your work or salon and instantly know it’s you.

How Do You Know What’s Working?

One of the biggest mistakes hairdressers make in marketing is guessing instead of measuring. If you don’t know where your clients are coming from, how can you tell which marketing activities are worth your time? A simple solution is to ask new clients how they found you – was it through Google, Instagram, or a referral? You can also use tools like Google Analytics and Facebook Insights to track which posts perform best and when your audience is most active.

Marketing Should Feel Natural – Not Like a Chore

The key to effective marketing is that it shouldn’t feel like a burden. It should be an integrated part of your daily routine. When you create a stunning haircut, snap a picture and share it. When a client is thrilled with their new color, ask if you can make a short video. When you have an open slot, post a quick Instagram Story to encourage last-minute bookings. At its core, marketing is about telling your story and showcasing your work – not about shouting the loudest. And remember, you’re already an expert at what you do. Now you just need to make sure your future clients know it too.