Starting Your Hairdressing Business: A Guide for New Year Success

As we get closer to the new year, many of us reflect on our goals and dreams. For some, that might mean finally taking the leap to start your own hairdressing business. Whether you’re planning to work from home or open a salon, there’s a lot to consider. Running your own business can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s not without challenges. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start your hairdressing business on the right foot—and a few common pitfalls to avoid.

Or scroll to the bottom for our recommendations on the 4 best Business Tools for Beginners or the top three Books for Small Business Beginners or five key Industry Bodies and Organisations for Hairdressing.

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Step 1: Set Clear Goals for Your Business

Start with the basics: what type of business do you want to run? Will you be a mobile hairdresser, a home-based stylist, or open a salon? Defining your vision will guide every decision you make. Set measurable goals—like how many clients you want to serve monthly—and work backward to plan how to achieve them.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Don’t set unrealistic expectations. Building a business takes time, and slow, steady growth is often more sustainable.

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Step 2: Understand the Legal and Financial Basics

You’ll need to register your business, comply with tax regulations, and consider insurance to protect yourself and your clients. If you’re working from home, check for any restrictions in your lease or mortgage agreements. Invest in accounting software or hire a bookkeeper to manage your finances.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Skipping insurance or neglecting tax registration can lead to costly fines and liabilities down the line.

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Step 3: Create a Professional Setup

Whether you’re working from home or renting a salon chair, ensure your space is professional and welcoming. Invest in comfortable seating, good lighting, and high-quality tools. If you’re offering hair extensions, keep a range of products ready for consultations. Clients will judge your service by their experience from the moment they walk in.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Underestimating the importance of aesthetics and comfort can discourage repeat clients.

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Step 4: Build a Strong Online Presence

Your website and social media profiles will often be your first point of contact with potential clients. Showcase your skills with high-quality photos, client testimonials, and engaging content. Platforms like Instagram are ideal for hairstylists, but don’t neglect Google Business and local SEO to ensure clients in your area can find you.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Don’t fall into the trap of irregular posting. Consistency is key to building your audience.

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Step 5: Focus on Client Experience

From the first consultation to the final blow-dry, your goal should be to deliver an exceptional client experience. Listen to what your clients want, offer expert advice, and ensure they leave feeling their best. Happy clients become loyal clients—and they’ll recommend you to their friends.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Overbooking yourself to maximize revenue can backfire if it compromises the quality of your service.

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Step 6: Invest in Ongoing Education

Trends in hairdressing, especially hair extensions, evolve quickly. Clients will expect you to be up-to-date with the latest styles, techniques, and products. Look for courses to improve your skills, particularly in specialized services like hair extensions fitting and maintenance.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Thinking you’ve “learned it all” can make your business stagnant. Keep growing!

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Step 7: Master Time Management

Balancing client appointments, marketing, admin work, and personal life is a challenge for any business owner. Use scheduling tools to organize your time effectively and avoid burnout.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Saying yes to every client or opportunity will leave you overwhelmed. Learn to prioritize.

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Step 8: Network with Other Professionals

Joining communities of other hairdressers, either online or in person, can open up opportunities for learning and collaboration. Hair Rehab London’s trade account, for example, provides salon owners and hair extension specialists access to exclusive resources and products.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Avoid isolating yourself. The hair industry thrives on connections and support.

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Step 9: Plan for the Unexpected

No matter how well you plan, unexpected challenges will arise. From power outages to last-minute cancellations, being adaptable is essential. Have a backup plan for common issues, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Thinking you can handle everything on your own can lead to unnecessary stress.

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Step 10: Stay Passionate

It’s easy to lose sight of your passion for hairdressing amid the day-to-day grind of running a business. Make time for the creative aspects you love, and celebrate your successes—no matter how small.

Pitfall to Avoid:
Letting the pressures of business ownership drain your enthusiasm.

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Conclusion
Starting your own hairdressing business can be one of the most fulfilling decisions you’ll ever make. With careful planning, hard work, and a commitment to delivering great service, your dream can become a thriving reality. If you’re ready to take the plunge, Hair Rehab London is here to support you every step of the way with top-quality products and trade benefits.

What are your business goals for the new year? Share them in the comments below—we’d love to hear about your journey!

Business Tools for Beginners

1. Accounting & Finance

   • QuickBooks or Xero: Easy-to-use accounting tools to track expenses, send invoices, and manage taxes.
   • Starling Bank (Business Account): A mobile-friendly banking option with no monthly fees, tailored for small businesses.
   • SumUp or Square: Affordable card readers for processing payments from clients.

2. Scheduling & Appointments

   • Fresha: Free booking software specifically designed for hair and beauty professionals.
   • Calendly: An easy-to-use scheduling tool for client consultations or meetings.

3. Marketing & Social Media

   • Canva: Perfect for creating social media graphics, price lists, and marketing materials.
   • Meta Business Suite: Manage your Facebook and Instagram pages in one place, schedule posts, and monitor insights.
   • Google My Business: Essential for ensuring your salon or services show up in local search results.

4. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

   • Mailchimp: Build email lists and send newsletters to clients for promotions and updates.
   • Notion: Organize client notes, business goals, and projects all in one platform.

Books for Small Business Beginners

1. "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries
   A great book for understanding how to grow your business sustainably while managing risk.

2. "Start With Why" by Simon Sinek
   Helps you define your purpose, which is especially important in a people-focused business like hairdressing.

3. "Will It Fly?" by Pat Flynn
   A practical guide to testing your business idea before you invest too much time or money.

Industry Bodies and Organisations for Hairdressing