Stop giving discounts: How to reward loyal customers

Create a one-of-a-kind experience

Make your salon more than just a place with a chair and a pair of scissors. Create an atmosphere that feels true to you and your clients. Maybe it gives off calm and a bit of pampering—something people look forward to, and feel like telling their friends about? Offer free—or paid—drinks, comfy waiting chairs, good music, mood lighting, and whatever else you want your personal brand to be. Remember: your brand is what people think about doing business with you—not what colour your logo is. When clients feel special, they come back. It really is that simple.

Personal follow-up

Show your clients that you value them by following up on their treatments. Send a message or offer follow-up advice on how to care for their new colour or haircut. Maybe they need help using their new styling products, the ones they bought the last time they visited you? That personal interest makes a big difference—and it doesn’t have to take more than a few minutes out of your day.

Referral discounts

Reward clients who bring new clients to your salon. For example, offer them 10% off their next treatment every time they refer a new client. Or let them choose a free styling product. Just make sure it’s not something that gets them used to you giving discounts. They need to understand they’re getting it because they helped you gain a new client. It creates a win-win situation where loyal clients become your best spokespeople—marketing you simply can’t put a price on! Remember, their new clients can get the same reward when they refer their friends.

Stamp card

Bring in a loyalty programme where your clients earn points or stamps for each treatment. When they reach a certain number, they can redeem their points for free products or similar. This gives them a reason to come back again and again. Just remember to build it into your prices, so you don’t end up having to close the salon because your clients keep coming back.

Birthdays

Surprise your clients on their birthday with a small gift or a special treat. For example, they could get a free sample to take home if they book a treatment in their birthday month. This personal gesture shows that you remember and value them, and at the same time you can get them keen on some lovely products that they’ll hopefully buy in the future.

Final words

Giving discounts can be a short-term fix, but building a meaningful, personal relationship with your clients is the best way forward. When clients feel valued and special, they won’t just come back—they’ll also recommend your salon to others. So skip the discount trap and focus on giving worthwhile experiences that make your clients love coming to you.