Wanna work smarter, not harder?
Consider the art of DOUBLE-BOOKING. This is a great option to maximize your time in the salon, while minimizing your actual time in the salon.
It's important to note that there's a bit of an art to the whole "double-booking" concept. Not all guests are ideal for double-booking. And the ones that are, need to be categorized into 2 groups.
But before we dive in, let's be sure to clarify one thing first.. You MUST be an established hair stylist with an established clientele to double-book successfully. Why? Because you need to know your clientele and it's best if they're somewhat predictable. This will be the difference between a great day at the salon and one full of chaos and stress.
Okay, now let's get back to the two different types of clients: CLIENT GROUP #1 and CLIENT GROUP #2.
CLIENT GROUP #1
- First on the schedule
- Their color is predictable
- They process long enough to fit “client #2” in during their processing time
- You can cut/style/rebook them in the timeline “client 2” is now processing
CLIENT GROUP #2
- Second on the schedule
- Their color is predictable
- Their application can be completed while “client #1” is processing - OR -
- Their cut/style can be completed while “client #1” is processing
- Their color processes long enough to finalize “client #1’s” cut/style/rebooking
- Their cut/style can be more time consuming, so ideal that they are not in “client group #1”
SCHEDULE SET UP
To truly be successful at double-booking, you’ll want to plan ahead when booking.
- Whenever possible, pre-book your own guests
- Look at your “blank” future schedule and strategically book your “client group #1” and your “client group #2”
- EXAMPLE: Jane (“client group #2”) is prebooking for June 1st. Your schedule is completely open. You schedule her 30 min after you arrive at work (9:30 let’s say..) Then, when someone from “client group #1” is prebooking for that same day, you can schedule them at 9:00. Now you’ve just capitalized your first few hours to be more profitable than if you would’ve just given Jane your first appointment at 9am.
CATEGORIZING YOUR GUESTS
Whether you make a mental note, a paper list, or label them in your computer software system, you’ll want to start looking at your guests in one of these 3 categories:
- Ideal client to be scheduled in CLIENT GROUP #1
- Ideal client to be scheduled in CLIENT GROUP #2
- Not an ideal client to be double-booked
- Unpredictable color/cut guest
- Not timely
- New guest to you
- Processing time or style time doesn’t line up with possible double-booking
PLEASE NOTE:
- It is extremely important to remember to not overwork yourself! Yes, you can make lots of money by double-booking. But if that money is getting spent on medical bills, chiropractor bills, etc.. then take a step back and reevaluate.
HOT TIPS:
- Leave some time for yourself during the day.. Make sure you have time to sit, eat and use the bathroom once in awhile
- It’s nice to still have time to take pictures of your awesome work after you slaved away on that hi-light for 3 hours.
- Your clients still appreciate the attention of the follow-through at the front desk vs. being rushed out the door.
- Plan ahead for quick meals on a particularly busy day (protein bars, shakes, grab ‘n go snacks, etc)
TOOLS FOR SUCCESS:
With anything in life, having the right tools can make all the difference!
I find it extremely helpful to have a quality tray to help me work efficiently during a busy work day. The QUICK TRAY by Boss Beauty Designs is amazing! It attaches below any stylist chair, letting it spin nearly all the way around the chair. You get easy-peasy access to your color gear, no more awkward stretching or tripping over a clunky old tray with wheels. Your tools are always in reach, helping you work efficiently with each guest.
https://bossbeautydesigns.com/products/the-quick-tray
And of course, I have to also mention The REVERSE CAPE by Boss Beauty Designs as well. This is absolutely ideal when working with guests with medium-long lengths. The Reverse Cape is designed with the snaps in front, so you don't have to fuss with the fabric cross-over in the back while trying to cut a straight line. And as an added bonus, it's water and chemical resistant so you can use throughout your entire service!
https://bossbeautydesigns.com/products/the-reverse-cape
Both of these tools were developed to aid in the success of all hairstylists! Great tools along with a great plan, and you've got your ticket for success!!
xoxo, Lisa