SIDEHUSTLE HELPER: DIGITAL ADVERTISING FOR BARBERSHOPS: A STEP-BY-STEP STRATEGY

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SECTION 1: WHY DIGITAL ADVERTISING IS CRUCIAL FOR BARBERSHOPS​

In the current landscape of the digital age, the importance of digital advertising for businesses, especially for barbershops, cannot be overstated. As more people immerse themselves in the online world, the traditional methods of attracting customers, like word-of-mouth and print advertising, while still valuable, are no longer sufficient on their own. Digital advertising bridges this gap, bringing numerous advantages to barbershops.

REACHING A BROADER, TARGETED AUDIENCE​

Digital platforms provide access to a vast audience that traditional advertising can't match. Social media, search engines, and online marketplaces are where a significant portion of potential customers spend their time. By leveraging these platforms, barbershops can reach not just more people, but the right people. Digital advertising allows for targeted campaigns based on demographics, interests, and even consumer behavior, ensuring that your marketing efforts reach those most likely to be interested in your services.

SHOWCASING UNIQUE SERVICES AND BUILDING BRAND IDENTITY​

Every barbershop has its unique flair – be it traditional cuts, modern styles, specialty grooming services, or a distinct atmosphere. Digital advertising offers creative ways to showcase these traits through rich media like videos, images, and interactive content. This not only attracts attention but also helps in building a strong brand identity. Through consistent and engaging online presence, barbershops can create a recognizable brand that resonates with their target audience.

PRECISION TARGETING AND PERSONALIZATION​

One of the most significant advantages of digital advertising is the ability to tailor messages to specific segments of your audience. With advanced analytics and data-tracking capabilities, you can understand customer preferences and behavior, allowing for highly personalized advertising. This precision targeting ensures that your marketing budget is spent efficiently, reaching people who are more likely to respond positively to your ads.

MEASURABLE RESULTS AND DATA-DRIVEN STRATEGIES​

Unlike traditional advertising methods where measuring impact can be challenging, digital advertising offers tangible, data-driven metrics. You can track the performance of your campaigns in real-time, measuring everything from the number of impressions and clicks to conversion rates and return on investment (ROI). This wealth of data enables barbershops to make informed decisions, refine strategies, and optimize future campaigns for better results.

FLEXIBILITY AND ADAPTABILITY​

The digital world is ever-evolving, and so are consumer behaviors. Digital advertising offers the flexibility to quickly adapt to these changes. Whether it's tweaking a campaign in response to customer feedback, exploring new platforms, or experimenting with emerging digital trends, barbershops can stay relevant and responsive. This adaptability is crucial in a competitive market, where staying ahead of the curve can make a significant difference.

COST-EFFECTIVE MARKETING WITH BROAD REACH​

Finally, digital advertising can be remarkably cost-effective, especially for small to medium-sized barbershops. With options ranging from organic social media campaigns to paid ads with set budgets, there are strategies for every price point. The ROI on digital advertising often exceeds that of traditional methods, making it a smart investment for businesses looking to expand their reach without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, digital advertising is not just a trend; it's a vital component of modern business strategies. For barbershops, embracing digital advertising means not only keeping up with the competition but also taking the opportunity to innovate, grow, and firmly establish their presence in the digital marketplace.

SECTION 2: CREATING YOUR FIRST DIGITAL AD CAMPAIGN​

Embarking on your first digital ad campaign can be an exciting journey into the world of online marketing. Here’s a more detailed look at how to effectively launch and manage your digital advertising efforts.

IDENTIFYING YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE​

The cornerstone of any successful digital ad campaign is understanding who your audience is. For a barbershop, this could range from young professionals seeking trendy styles to older clients preferring classic cuts. Dive into your clientele's demographics - age, gender, occupation, and interests. Analyze their online habits - which social media platforms do they frequent? What kind of content resonates with them? Understanding these aspects will guide you in tailoring your campaign to speak directly to your ideal customers.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT DIGITAL PLATFORM​

Each digital platform serves a unique purpose and reaches different audiences. For instance, Instagram and TikTok are excellent for visual, creative content targeting a younger demographic, while Facebook and Google Ads might be more suitable for a broader audience range. Consider where your target customers are most active and what type of content they engage with. Remember, the platform you choose should align not just with your audience but also with the type of content you’re planning to create.

CRAFTING COMPELLING CONTENT​

The content of your ad is what engages and convinces your audience. It should be relevant, engaging, and aligned with your brand's voice. High-quality images of your work, short engaging videos, and before-and-after shots can be very effective. The copy should be concise yet captivating, highlighting what sets your barbershop apart. Include a strong call-to-action (CTA) - whether it’s to book an appointment, visit your website, or follow your social media pages.

DESIGNING VISUALLY APPEALING GRAPHICS AND VIDEOS​

Visuals are at the heart of digital advertising. They are the first thing that catches the viewer's eye. Invest in high-quality, professional graphics and videos that reflect the quality of your services. Ensure that your brand’s logo, color scheme, and aesthetic are consistent across all your ads to build brand recognition.

SETTING A BUDGET AND STARTING SMALL​

Digital advertising can be cost-effective, but it’s wise to start small and scale as you see results. Set a budget that you’re comfortable with and that aligns with your campaign goals. Most platforms offer flexible budgeting options, allowing you to control how much you spend per day or per ad. Track your spending and adjust as needed to ensure you’re getting the most out of your investment.

MONITORING AND ADJUSTING YOUR CAMPAIGN​

Launching your campaign is just the beginning. Monitor its performance closely using the analytics tools provided by the advertising platform. Look at metrics like click-through rate, engagement, and conversion to gauge the effectiveness of your ads. Don’t hesitate to tweak your campaign - adjust targeting options, experiment with different ad formats, or refine your messaging based on the data and feedback you receive.

By following these steps, you can create a digital ad campaign that not only reaches your target audience but also resonates with them, driving engagement and, ultimately, business to your barbershop. Remember, digital advertising is a learning process, and each campaign provides valuable insights for future strategies.

SECTION 3: ANALYZING AND OPTIMIZING YOUR ONLINE ADS​

Launching your digital ad campaign is just the first step. The real magic lies in how you analyze and optimize these ads to ensure maximum effectiveness. Here's an in-depth look into this critical phase of digital advertising.

UNDERSTANDING KEY PERFORMANCE METRICS​

The success of your digital ad campaign hinges on several key performance indicators (KPIs):

• Click-Through Rates (CTR): This measures how often people who see your ad end up clicking on it. A higher CTR indicates that your ad is relevant and appealing to your audience.
• Engagement Rates: This includes likes, shares, comments, and overall interaction with your ad. High engagement rates often signal that your content resonates well with your audience.
• Conversion Rates: This tracks how many clicks turn into desired actions, such as bookings, purchases, or sign-ups. A high conversion rate means your ad is not just attracting attention, but also compelling action.
• Return on Ad Spend (ROAS): This measures the revenue generated for every dollar spent on your ads. It helps you understand the financial effectiveness of your campaign.

UTILIZING ANALYTICS TOOLS​

Most digital advertising platforms offer built-in analytics tools. These tools provide a wealth of data that can be used to gauge the performance of your ads. They allow you to track the above metrics and more, giving you a comprehensive view of how your ads are performing.

REGULARLY REVIEWING AND TWEAKING ADS​

Digital advertising is dynamic, and consumer responses can change rapidly. Regularly review the performance data of your ads. If an ad isn’t performing as expected, don’t be afraid to tweak it. This could mean changing the visuals, adjusting the ad copy, or even modifying the call-to-action. Small changes can sometimes lead to significant improvements in performance.

EXPERIMENTING WITH A/B TESTING​

A/B testing involves creating two versions of your ad with one varying element, like a different headline or image. This allows you to compare the performance of the two versions and see which element resonates more with your audience. It's a powerful way to refine your ads and ensure that every aspect is optimized for performance.

ADJUSTING TARGETING STRATEGIES​

Your initial target audience might not always be the most responsive. Use the data from your campaigns to understand which demographics are most engaged. You might find that adjusting your targeting parameters, such as age range, interests, or geographical location, could yield better results.

BALANCING FREQUENCY AND SATURATION​

Ad frequency refers to how often your audience sees your ad. While repeated exposure is necessary for brand recall, too much can lead to ad fatigue. Monitor your campaign to find the right balance – enough frequency to make an impact but not so much that it turns off potential customers.

EVALUATING AND LEARNING FROM DATA​

Each ad campaign provides valuable insights. Whether an ad performs exceptionally well or poorly, there’s always something to learn. Analyzing what worked and what didn’t will guide your future campaigns, helping you to continually refine your digital advertising strategy for better results.

By closely monitoring, analyzing, and optimizing your online ads, you ensure that your digital advertising efforts are not just a shot in the dark but a continually improving strategy driving real results for your barbershop.

SECTION 4: SUCCESS STORIES IN BARBERSHOP DIGITAL ADVERTISING​

The impact of digital advertising in the barbershop industry can be best illustrated through real-world success stories. These narratives not only inspire but also provide tangible proof of what well-executed digital strategies can achieve. Let's delve into some notable examples:

CHICAGO BARBERSHOP'S FACEBOOK AD TRIUMPH​

A local barbershop in Chicago serves as a prime example. They decided to leverage Facebook's powerful targeting capabilities to reach their ideal clientele. By creating engaging, visually appealing ads that highlighted their unique services and skilled staff, they targeted an audience based on location, interests, and demographics aligned with their typical customers. The result was a staggering 30% increase in bookings within just the first month. This surge wasn't just a spike in interest; it translated into loyal customers who became regulars.

NEIGHBORHOOD TARGETING WITH GOOGLE ADS​

Another success story comes from a barbershop that utilized Google Ads to target specific neighborhoods. They understood that convenience is a key factor for customers when choosing a barbershop. By targeting ads to nearby areas and showcasing their convenient location, along with special offers, they saw a significant increase in walk-in customers. This strategy not only brought in immediate business but also increased their visibility in the local community, leading to long-term growth.

INSTAGRAM MARKETING STRATEGY LEADS TO VIRAL GROWTH​

Consider the story of a barbershop that turned to Instagram to showcase their work. They posted high-quality images of their cuts and styles, used relevant hashtags, and engaged actively with their followers. One of their posts went viral, leading to a massive increase in followers and a corresponding boost in appointment bookings. Their success on Instagram helped establish them as a trendy, go-to place for modern styles, attracting a younger demographic keen on keeping up with the latest trends.

LEVERAGING YOUTUBE FOR BRAND BUILDING​

A barbershop decided to create a series of YouTube tutorials showcasing their barbers' skills and sharing grooming tips. These videos not only provided value to viewers but also demonstrated the expertise of their barbers. The channel quickly gained subscribers, and the shop noted a substantial increase in new customers who mentioned the YouTube videos as their reason for visiting. This approach helped the barbershop build a brand that was associated with expertise and trust.

EMAIL MARKETING CAMPAIGNS BOOSTING CLIENT RETENTION​

A traditional barbershop decided to modernize its approach by implementing an email marketing campaign. They sent out monthly newsletters with styling tips, special offers, and updates about the shop. This strategy kept them at the top of their customers’ minds, resulting in increased repeat visits and a higher rate of client retention.

These success stories from the barbershop industry demonstrate how a well-planned and executed digital advertising campaign can lead to tangible results. Whether it's through social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, search engine marketing with Google Ads, content creation on YouTube, or even email marketing, the potential to grow your barbershop business through digital channels is immense. Each of these stories highlights the importance of understanding your target audience, leveraging the right platforms, and creating content that resonates with and engages your potential customers.

HOW "YOUR BARBER CONNECT" CAN ELEVATE YOUR DIGITAL ADVERTISING GAME​

At "Your Barber Connect," we're more than just a service provider; we're your strategic partner in the journey to digital advertising success. We understand that in the competitive barber industry, standing out is key. That's why we specialize in crafting bespoke digital marketing strategies tailored to the unique essence of your barbershop.

TARGET AUDIENCE ANALYSIS​

We begin by diving deep into your barbershop's client base, analyzing demographics, interests, and online behaviors. This data-driven approach ensures that your digital ads reach not just a wide audience, but the right audience - those who are most likely to walk through your doors.

CRAFTING ENGAGING CONTENT​

Our team of creative experts excels at producing content that captures the spirit of your brand. Whether it's eye-catching images, compelling videos, or persuasive ad copy, we create materials that resonate with your audience and reflect the quality of your services.

AD OPTIMIZATION AND PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS​

With "Your Barber Connect," your campaign is in a state of continual refinement. We meticulously monitor ad performance, using real-time data to make adjustments that maximize impact and ROI. Our analytical approach means your advertising dollars are always working their hardest.

COMPREHENSIVE DIGITAL STRATEGY​

Our services extend beyond just ad creation. We provide a holistic digital strategy, encompassing everything from SEO to social media management. By coordinating these efforts, we ensure a cohesive online presence that amplifies your brand voice and message.

DRIVING TANGIBLE RESULTS​

Our ultimate goal is to drive real, measurable outcomes for your barbershop. This means more than just clicks and likes; it's about filling seats, increasing sales of barber equipment, and building a robust, recognizable brand. With our expertise, these goals are not just achievable; they're within reach.

YOUR NEXT STEP TO DIGITAL DOMINANCE​

Don't let the digital advertising world intimidate you. "Your Barber Connect" is here to guide you through every step, making the complex simple and the overwhelming manageable. Whether you're looking to launch your first digital ad campaign or take your existing efforts to the next level, we're the partner you need.

 

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Barber Shop Advertising: Effective Marketing Strategies​

Understanding the barber shop industry​

The barber industry has a rich history dating back centuries, with barbershops being a staple in many communities. Today, the industry is still going strong, with new trends emerging and innovative techniques being introduced.
But it's not just about the cuts and styles. Barbershops have become a place where people can connect, socialize, and relax. It's not uncommon to see customers chatting with their barbers and other customers while enjoying a cold drink or a hot cup of coffee.
In recent years, the barber industry has seen a resurgence in popularity, with more men seeking out the services of a skilled barber. This trend has led to the rise of modern barbershops, offering a unique and personalized experience.
With all these changes, it's important for barbershop owners to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry. Understanding the current state of the barber industry and the trends that are emerging will help you create a marketing plan that resonates with your target audience.

Identifying your target market​

Now that we have a good understanding of the barber industry, let's talk about how to identify your target market for your barber shop marketing plan.

Creating customer personas​

The first step is to think about the type of customers you want to attract. Who are they? What are their interests, needs, and desires? Creating customer personas can help you visualize your ideal customer and tailor your marketing messages to their specific needs.
For example, let's say you're a barbershop located near a college campus. Your target market might be male college students who are looking for a trendy haircut that fits their budget.

• You could create a customer persona named "College Chris” who:
  Is a 20-year-old man.
• A student studying marketing.
• And wants a haircut that's stylish, but won't break the bank.

On the other hand, if your barbershop is located in a more upscale neighborhood, your target market might be professionals who are looking for a high-end grooming experience. You could create a customer persona named "Executive Emma" who:

• Is 35-year-old woman.
• A businesswoman who values quality and luxury.
• And looking for a barbershop that offers premium grooming services in a comfortable environment.

Understanding your competition​

It's also important to think about your competition. What are other barbershops in the area offering? How can you differentiate yourself and attract new leads?
One way to stand out is to partner with local businesses and offer promotions or discounts to their employees. This can help you tap into a new market and build relationships with other businesses in the community.
By understanding your target market and what sets you apart from the competition, you can create a marketing plan that speaks directly to your ideal customer and attracts new business to your barbershop.

15 Barber shop marketing ideas​

Barber shops are more than just places to get a haircut - they're social hubs where people come to hang out, chat, and get pampered. But with so many other barber shops out there, how do you stand out from the crowd?
Well, fear not friend, because we've got 15 barber shop marketing ideas that you can add to your barber shop marketing strategy. They'll not only help you attract new customers, but also keep them coming back for more.

1. Host events​

One of the most effective ways to build relationships with your community is by hosting events. Get creative and think outside the box!

• You could organize a charity event where a portion of the proceeds go to a local organization, or sponsor a local sports team and offer discounts to their players.
• You could also host a "Beard-Off" competition and crown the person with the best beard in town.

Events like these not only bring potential clients into your barbershop, but they also create an opportunity for you to show off your skills and connect with potential new customers.

2. Run contests on social media​

Social media is an incredible tool for promoting your barbershop, and running contests is a fun way to engage with your followers and attract new customers.

• Ask your followers to share a photo of their favorite haircut or beard style on their social media accounts, and the winner gets a free grooming service!

Make sure to promote the contest heavily on your social media accounts, and don't forget to use relevant hashtags to increase visibility.

3. Offer referral discounts​

Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool, and offering referral discounts can incentivize your current customers to bring in their friends and family.

• You could offer a discount on their next service for every new customer they refer.

Not only does this encourage your existing customers to spread the word about your barbershop, but it also rewards them for doing so.

4. Collaborate with influencers​

Influencer marketing is a great way to reach a wider audience and attract new customers. Look for local influencers who are passionate about grooming and have them showcase your barbershop on their social media accounts.

• You could offer them a free grooming service in exchange for a post or partner with them on a more extensive campaign.

This can be a great way to build buzz around your barbershop and generate new leads.

5. Create video tutorials​

Creating video tutorials on grooming tips and techniques is an excellent way to establish your barbershop as an authority in the industry. Share these videos on your website, social media and a barbershop YouTube channel to attract new customers and build brand awareness.

• You could create a video series on how to achieve the perfect fade
• Or you could offer tips on how to maintain a healthy beard.

Not only will this help you attract new customers, but it also positions your barbershop as a trusted source of grooming advice.

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6. Offer membership or loyalty programs​

Membership programs can help you build a loyal customer base and generate recurring revenue.

• You could offer different levels of membership with various benefits, such as discounts on services and exclusive access to events.

This is an excellent way to reward your most loyal customers and encourage them to keep coming back.
TIP: Want to know if loyalty programs really work? Our loyalty program effectiveness blog has all the answers!

7. Host pop-up shops​

Pop-up shops are a fun way to reach new customers and introduce them to your barbershop. Partner with other local businesses and offer exclusive discounts on grooming services during the event.

• For example, you could host a pop-up shop at a local brewery or coffee shop and offer free beard trims to customers who buy a pint or a latte.

8. Offer grooming classes​

Offering grooming classes is an excellent way to attract customers who are interested in learning how to take care of their hair and beard at home.

• You could offer classes on specific grooming techniques or partner with a local beauty school to offer more comprehensive courses.

Not only does this help you attract new customers, but it also positions your barbershop as a trusted source of grooming knowledge.

9. Use local SEO​

Make sure your barbershop business appears in local Google search results by optimizing your website for local SEO. This involves including location-specific keywords in your website content, such as your city or neighborhood, and adding your business to online directories like Google My Business. Local SEO can help potential customers find your barbershop when searching for grooming services in their area.

10. Offer free samples​

Offering free samples of your grooming products is a great way to attract new customers and get them interested in your services, and keep loyal customers coming back.

• You could give away samples of your beard oil or other products.
• You could offer a free beard trim or bangs trim to new customers.

This is a great way to build trust and establish your barbershop as a go-to grooming destination.

11. Attend local events​

Attending local events is a great way to connect with your community and promote your barbershop.

• Look for events in your area that are relevant to grooming or men's fashion, and set up a booth or pop-up shop.

This is a great way to meet potential new customers and generate leads.

12. Offer special deals on slow days​

Offering special deals on slow days is a great way to incentivize customers to visit your barbershop during quieter times.

• For example, you could offer a discount on haircuts or grooming services on weekdays or during specific hours.

This can help you generate more business during slower times and keep your barbershop busy throughout the week.

13. Offer mobile barber services​

Offering mobile barber services is a great way to reach customers who may not be able to visit your physical location.

• You could offer in-home haircuts or grooming services for events like weddings or parties.

This is a great way to generate new leads and expand your customer base.

14. Use email & SMS marketing​

Email and SMS marketing (also known as text message marketing) are great ways to keep your customers engaged and informed about your barbershop business.

• Send out regular newsletters with grooming tips or exclusive deals/discounts.
• Use SMS messages to remind customers about upcoming appointments.

This is a great way to stay top of mind and build customer loyalty.

15. Offer online scheduling​

Offering an online booking system is a great way to make it easy for customers to schedule appointments with your barbershop.

• You could use a booking platform like Booksy or Squire to allow customers to book appointments directly from your website or social media accounts.

This is a great way to streamline the booking process and improve the customer experience.
Another great marketing tactic for barbershops is to integrate an online scheduling system with your barber shop POS (point of sale) system. This way, customers can book appointments online and also pay for their services in advance. This not only saves time for both you and your customers, but it also helps prevent no-shows and last-minute cancellations.

The Uncomplicated Barber Shop Point of Sale System​

Run your barber shop efficiently with the point of sale system that helps keep seats filled, employees busy, and customers happy.
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Barber up your marketing strategy: cut through the competition!​

So there you have it, folks - 15 fun and creative barbershop marketing ideas to help you stand out from the competition and attract new clients. By implementing these marketing tactics into your overall marketing strategy, you can boost your visibility in search results, increase your social media following, and ultimately grow your barbershop business.
Remember, the key to a successful marketing strategy is to have fun with it! Get creative and think outside the box. Host events, run contests, offer referral discounts, collaborate with influencers, and create video tutorials. And don't forget to:

• Use local SEO,
• Offer free haircuts and samples,
• Attend local events,
• Offer special deals on slow days,
• Start mobile barber services,
• Use email & SMS marketing, a
• Offer online scheduling to make it easy for your clients to book appointments.

 

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The Best Barbershop Marketing Strategies​

1. Befriend Your Business Listings​

Here’s the thing: you “own” your business listings online.

Facebook.

Yelp.

Google.

All yours.

Still, we see a lot of barbers who don’t set their online business listings up fully or don’t regularly update their profiles with their latest schedule or services (which is maybe even worse than not using them at all).

If you don’t update your business profiles regularly, now’s the time.

Dr. Scott Hamula, a professor of communications at Ithaca College in New York, tells us that after spending several hours every Saturday at his local shop (shoutout to Short’s Barbershop!), he immediately recommended that they clean up their Facebook page and start an Instagram business account.

Dr. Hamula also recommends posting new content at least once a day to your social channels one you have them.

Pro tip: Schedulicity offers a built-in Book button for Instagram that links directly to your Schedulicity calendar. We also offer booking widgets for easy embedding into your shop’s website.

2. Go Old-School with Flashy Signage ​

People still use them ’cause they work. Everyone knows about the red, white, and blue barbershop pole.

Just make sure to check your local codes to see what you can get away with.

Dr. Hamula says, “A well-placed sandwich board sign on a high-traffic street can raise awareness and direct customers to your shop.”

Professional copywriter Amanda Kostro Miller agrees and suggests doubling your impact by trying some “Instagram-worthy” signage as well.

“Make it something that shows off your name but also can be used as a great photo-op for Millennials and Gen Z. Your shop gets interest on the street and online!”

3. Build Out a Loyalty or Referral Programs​

Want more word-of-mouth traffic? Ask for it.

Offer a loyalty program or referral discount to your current clients. You don’t need to get too complicated for these to pay off.

Referral programs can be as simple as adding a note to a referring clients’ profile to give them 10% off the next time they come in whenever someone tells you who recommended you.

(This is easy with Schedulicity.)

4. Get Online, Chalkboard Fans​

Almost everyone we talked to said the same thing: Not enough barbers use online booking and marketing tools.

We’ve always loved the vibe of walk-in barbershops, but more and more people want to do everything online, including scheduling their shaves or fades.

When you use an all-in-one software for scheduling, booking, and payment, you can tackle all sorts of creative marketing strategies, including package discounts for referrals or seasonal package deals.

Walk-ins still welcome, of course.

One great platform if you’re just starting out? Yeah, us.

5. Go Hog-Wild on Videos​

At least five industry experts suggested that barbers try their hands at either YouTube or Instagram Stories.

Jessica Dennehy, a former Wall Street regulator who built a brand of luxury barbershops in Long Island called MadMen, says that her business grew through the pandemic because her team created and shared video content on all their channels.

Before and afters, tutorials, “hot takes” from your chair.

Don’t be afraid to show a little personality and keep in mind that it doesn’t need to look perfect.

In fact, getting a little messy usually feels more authentic.

If you need examples, look no further than City Image Barber for inspiration — or “inspo,” if you’re looking for the technical marketing term.

6. Pay Attention to Search Results​

If you’ve heard the term “search engine optimization,” or “SEO,” thrown around, it’s for good reason.

Now more than ever, how high you turn up in search results online matters. That’s especially true if you want people to find you when they Google “barber near me.”

“As clients begin to go about their normal lives again, there’s a greater chance that they will take this opportunity to look for new barbers,” says Joe Agnello of City Image Barbers.

“It’s important to make sure that your business can be found when someone is searching.”

Here’s our explainer on exactly how to get found in local search results, AKA “improve your local SEO,” in just a few minutes.

7. Partner Up​

Barbershops are all about community, right?

Use that to your advantage by partnering with other local businesses to co-promote each other’s products or services.

“Hosting events and cross-promoting on each other’s social media is a great way to spread out to a larger audience,” says Agnello.

“You can even do a collaborative giveaway that each of you offer to your customers to bring awareness to each other’s businesses.”

8. Leverage Giveaways​

Beyond partnerships, giveaways can instantly amp up your online following — and online booking for barbers.

Hair and beauty consultant Nina Tulio swears by them to grow a social media following. (Just don’t forget to add a book button to your Instagram, so new followers can easily get in to see you.)

You can amplify your results even more by getting savvy about the winner’s pot. Offload some product that just isn’t moving or, better yet, give the winner a free cut or package deal for themselves and a friend.

Then, both people are likely to refer some more people who…

Behold! The snowball effect.

9. Attend (or Even Sponsor) Live Events​

We know you’ve heard of BarberCon. The perks of attending live events are endless — and we don’t just mean the killer parties. They’re also the ideal chance to meet other people in the industry who you could partner with in the future.

But beyond barbering events, you should consider sponsoring local events, too. That could mean holiday fairs, charity fundraisers (a cutting booth at a local fundraiser could be pretty freakin’ rad), or offering matching fades for your local high school soccer team ahead of their final match.

Fun to think outside the box, right?

Pro tip: Here’s our list of the top barbering and hair events to attend in 2022 (yep, they’re backkkk).

10. Ask for Reviews​

A bad review can make your skin crawl, but a great review can change everything. It also happens to be great SEO (see tip #6).

One way to make sure you’re in that high 4.5-5.0 rating range is to get proactive about them.

“When people decide to visit a certain barbershop for the first time, chances are that they’ll want to make sure they’ve made the right choice,” says Greta Simeonova of PAN Digital Marketing.

“One of the easiest ways to do this is by looking at online reviews. Encourage your existing clients to leave reviews about the experience as this will help you attract more clients.”

We recommend that you ask for reviews on both Yelp and Google.

You can do this easily by sending an email to your client list and, if you’re feeling generous, offering them a discount on their next service in exchange.

11. Go in on Swagger-worthy Swag​

Beanies, beer koozies, branded sweatshirts — these days, the sky is the limit.

Feel free to sell ’em, but use them for those giveaways we mentioned as well.

Any time someone sees one of your customers in your beanie, it’s free advertising.

And don’t underestimate the power of a simple business card for barbers.

Says Agnello: “One thing that is being overlooked lately is the power of handing people your business card. I know that you may think it’s insignificant because everything is electronic nowadays, but a business card acts as a first impression.

Make sure the quality is good and the design fits your style, and it also shows that you want them to personally be your client.”

 

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The Best Salon Appointment Booking Apps for 2024​

The Best Booking Apps for Salons and Other Service Providers​

To start, we have a quick rundown of the best scheduling apps for every type of business.

1. Service Providers in Hair and Beauty: Schedulicity
2. Business Meetings App: Calendly
3. Free Business Meetings App: HubSpot Free Meeting Scheduler
4. Service Providers in Fitness, Health, and Wellness: Schedulicity or MindBody
5. Ecommerce: Vagaro
6. Integrations: Acuity Scheduling
7. Service Providers in Beauty Only: StyleSeat
8. General: Square Appointments by Square

Best Scheduling Apps for Every Type of Business​

1. Best Booking Site for Hair Stylists/Salon Owners (and, really, all service providers): Schedulicity​

We couldn’t put together a list of the best salon booking apps without mentioning our own — which we happen to think is the very best option out there.

Schedulicity is an all-in-one booking solution for service providers. Think hair, beauty, massage therapy, and more.

Our appointment scheduling software also provides email marketing, text message appointment reminders, client list management, and payment processing.

Schedulicity is great for new providers and those who have multiple locations.

Our essential scheduling features grow as you do, and you get unlimited access to every tool your business needs in one place.

Schedulicity Features

Scheduling		Marketing		Automation		Administrative		Cost
Appointment booking		Facebook & Instagram booking integration		Client text/email reminders		Client management		Starts at $34.99/month
Class bookings		Automated email marketing		Package management		Staff schedule management
Workshop bookings		Promotion marketing		Automatic billing		Multiple locations
Personal time off		Marketplace listing		Online payments		Business analytics
Multiple staff schedules				Waivers
				Waitlists

Our Favorite Schedulicity Feature

Built-in payment processing is our favorite tool. It integrates seamlessly into our booking app and the scheduling experience for clients.

We even have industry-low rates, two-day funding, and no hidden fees. It makes getting paid a snap!

Learn More About Schedulicity

2. Best Scheduling App for Business Meetings: Calendly​

If you’re looking for an simple starting point to online appointment scheduling, Calendly might be the ideal option for you.

A free account gives you access to one calendar and one type of event, but you can schedule unlimited meetings.

Calendly is also set up to easily integrate with Google Calendar, Office Outlook, and iCloud.

Paid accounts are available as well. They allow you to set up unlimited event types and include access to live support.

Calendly is the ideal what-you-see-is-what-you-get option for first-time businesses: Easy meeting scheduling and an intuitive calendar but not much else.

You need to go elsewhere for marketing tools or payment processing — which explains why most service-based businesses go for more specialized scheduling apps.

Our Favorite Calendly Feature

The Google Calendar and Office 365 calendar integrations make it easy for you and your clients to work your meetings into their regular calendar.

Download the Calendly app here.

(If you already have an account and are looking for an Calendly alternative, check out these better online booking apps for salons and service providers.)

3. Best Free Scheduling App for Business Meetings: HubSpot’s Free Meeting Scheduler​

Marketing titan HubSpot created a free meeting scheduler that’s simple enough for any small business.

It aims to eliminate back-and-forth email chains, trying to find a meeting time that works for everyone. They offer two flexible meeting options:

• Group availability for when you’d like your team to be invited to a meeting with a client
• Round-robin availability for when you’d like your client to choose a time that works best for them (and book a meeting with only one teammate)

Like Calendly, the Free Meeting Scheduler integrates with Google Calendar and Office 365, so you can keep all invitations and meeting links in a single place.

It’s clear that HubSpot’s newer scheduler is meant for sales and prospecting calls, as it integrates with other HubSpot features, like its CRM and email marketing tools.

This is great if you’re looking to close the deal!

If you’re looking for an online booking app for hair appointments, though, keep scrolling.

Our Favorite HubSpot Meeting Scheduler Feature

Any time someone books a meeting with you, their contact information is automatically stored in your contacts database.

That means no more duplicate contacts or multiple tabs open to see who you’re talking to and why.

Get Started with HubSpot’s Free Meeting Scheduler

Sign Up for Schedulicity

4. Best Scheduling App for Fitness Classes: Schedulicity or MindBody​

For a More Hands-On Experience: Schedulicity

In addition to tools for service providers who take single appointments, Schedulicity also offers features specifically for those in the fitness industry:

• Personal trainers
• Pilates and yoga instructors
• Other health, wellness, and fitness instructors

We’re an especially great option for new fitness professionals because of our hands-on support and simple, affordable scheduling options.

This includes:

• Class waitlists and waivers
• Multiple instructors and locations
• Package management (for clients who like gym memberships or rebooking one-on-one sessions)

Schedulicity Class-Based Features

Scheduling		Marketing		Automation		Administrative		Cost
Appointment booking		Facebook & Instagram booking integration		Client text/email reminders		Client management		Starts at $34.99/month
Class bookings		Automated email marketing		Package management		Staff schedule management
Workshop bookings		Promotion marketing		Automatic billing		Multiple locations
Personal time off		Marketplace listing		Online payments		Business analytics
Multiple staff schedules				Waivers
				Waitlists

Sign Up for Schedulicity
For Larger Gyms Who Want Advanced Features: Mindbody

MindBody is an enterprise-level scheduling platform marketed towards larger businesses in the fitness industry. (Think franchise gyms.)

The fitness booking app comes with a robust set of wellness-specific features, such as fitness performance tracking, gym memberships, and more.

MindBody also services salon, spa, and wellness businesses and includes the core essentials for online scheduling.

MindBody Features

Scheduling		Marketing		Automation		Administrative		Cost
Appointment booking		Facebook & Instagram booking integration		Client text/email reminders		Client management		Starts at $129/month
Class bookings		Automated email marketing		Package management		Staff schedule management
Multiple staff schedules		Promotion marketing		Automatic billing		Multiple locations
Personal time off		Marketplace listing		Online payments		Business analytics
				Waivers
				Waitlists

Download the Mindbody app here. (It’s designed for the iPad only.)

The Main Difference

Schedulicity costs much less than Mindbody while delivering the same basic features.

With Mindbody (and some extra money), you get more bells and whistles, including branded mobile apps.

But!

Schedulicity offers free, unlimited support via email and phone.

5. Best Scheduling App for Ecommerce: Vagaro​

Do you make a lot of money from selling products or merchandise? Vagaro might be for you.

Vagaro specializes in appointment management for the beauty industry.

The booking software offers more advanced features for small businesses, like an e-commerce store for salon and spa products.

Vagaro Features

Scheduling		Marketing		Automation		Administrative		Cost
Appointment booking		Facebook & Instagram booking integration		Client text/email reminders		Client management		Starts at $25/month
Class bookings		Automated email marketing		Package management		Staff schedule management
Multiple staff schedules		Promotion marketing		Automatic billing		Multiple locations
Personal time off		Marketplace listing		Online payments		Business analytics

(See how Vagaro compares to Schedulicity here.)

Our Favorite Vagaro Feature

Vagaro offers an integrated website builder with the booking app already in place. It’s perfect for a new business that doesn’t yet have a digital home.

Download the Vagaro app here.

6. Best Scheduling Software for Website Integrations: Acuity Scheduling​

Acuity Scheduling by SquareSpace is a super-simple platform covering all the essentials:

• Online scheduling
• Website integration
• Appointment reminder emails
• Package management

This booking software is an especially good option if you use SquareSpace to manage your site. You can keep all of your business needs in one place.

(Here’s how Acuity compares to Schedulicity.)

Acuity Scheduling Features

Scheduling		Marketing		Automation		Administrative		Cost
Appointment booking		Facebook & Instagram booking integration		Client text/email reminders		Client management		Starts at $15/month
Personal time off				Package management		Staff schedule management
Multiple staff schedules						Multiple locations
						Business analytics

Our Favorite Acuity Scheduling Feature

The beauty of Acuity Scheduling is its ability to work with other tools. The app integrates with other softwares like MailChimp and QuickBooks.

Download the Acuity Scheduling app here. (It’s designed for the iPad only.)

7. Best Scheduling App for Beauty Pros: StyleSeat​

StyleSeat is a highly stylized booking software that focuses on branding and aesthetics.

The scheduling platform was built for solo beauty providers and includes basic scheduling and marketing features to help manage your client relationships.

The booking app is geared towards only the beauty industry with highly visual features across the board, like a customized business listing banner.

StyleSeat Features

Scheduling		Marketing		Automation		Administrative		Cost
Appointment booking		Facebook & Instagram booking integration		Client text/email reminders		Client management		Starts at $35/month
Personal time off				Online payments		Business analytics

Our Favorite StyleSeat Feature

StyleSeat shows verified reviews for every business listing to help boost credibility and establish trust.

Download the StyleSeat app here. (It’s designed for the iPad only.)

To learn more, read our comparison between Schedulicity and StyleSeat.

8. Best Scheduling App for General Business: Square Appointments​

Square Appointments is a solid scheduling app for businesses in any industry. Because of its generality, it offers basic scheduling features: calendar management, recurring appointments, and client booking.

However, it’s not made for a specific industry, like hair, beauty, or fitness, so users may miss out on some of the unique booking features of its competitors.

Our Favorite Square Appointments Feature

Square Appointments is made by Square, the popular payment processor. That means payment processing is directly integrated into the booking app. You can charge late, cancellation, and no-show fees.

It also comes with retail and inventory features, as well as a point-of-sale system. Users and their clients can enjoy contactless payments, card-on-file, invoices, gift cards, and more.

Download the Square Appointments app here.

FAQs: Scheduling Software & Booking Apps for Salon Owners s & Other Service Providers​

Why offer online appointment scheduling?​

Whether you run a hair salon or work as a massage therapist, you need a booking app because you book a lot of appointments. Simple.

And the more your business grows, the harder it is to keep your schedule straight.

Instead of juggling a paper appointment book…

Taking calls and answering DMs at all hours…

And hoping you write down appointments correctly…

Online scheduling software takes your business to the next level. These apps are designed to save you time and money — and to grow your client base.

What are the benefits of an online appointment scheduling app?​

On the fence about online scheduling software? Let’s get specific about exactly what you get from an appointment scheduling app.

• You Can Manage Your Own Schedule. Appointment scheduling apps give you access to your calendar in real-time — from any device. You can easily edit or cancel appointments and adjust your schedule 24/7.
• You Save Time and Money. Scheduling apps are like a personal assistant in your pocket. In fact, the estimated value savings from using online appointment scheduling is $3.2 billion.
• You Can Market Your Business With Ease. Any appointment booking app worth the price tag should include marketing features, like email marketing, discount management, and a booking listing (where clients can book appointments for free).
• You Can Share Information Easily and Safely. Client information can be super sensitive, depending on your industry. It’s often not safe to share details over email or text. Scheduling apps maintain all client notes in one secure platform, allowing you to provide a streamlined service without the risk.
• You Can Get Paid Right Away. When you buy online scheduling software, look for a payment feature that allows clients to pay through the app. You can also take deposits (which cuts down on cancellations) and process payments all in one place.

What features should online scheduling software have?​

Every online scheduling app comes with unique features, and it can be overwhelming to figure out what you need.

To help with your research, we narrowed down five critical elements to consider when it comes to picking an appointment scheduling app.

• Scheduling. Scheduling software should have multiple options for booking: appointments, classes, workshops, and more. Clients should also be able to book their appointments for free. (Hidden booking fees can add up.)

• Marketing. These features grow your business and include promotional options, business listings, email marketing campaigns, and social media booking integrations.

• Automation. Scheduling apps should take care of daily repetitive business tasks, like client appointment reminders and follow-ups, automatic billing, and emails.

• Administrative support. Any booking software should deal with the logistics of staff, client management, and multiple locations.

• Cost. Scheduling software should save you money — and even help you make more of it by filling up your calendar — so apps should come with a reasonable price tag and no hidden fees for signing up, cancelling your account, or booking appointments.

 

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The top secrets of barber client care​

Make life easy​

From booking through to payment, your barbershop should make your client’s life as easy as possible.

Booking: Some clients are old-school and like to use the telephone to make their bookings, others prefer the ease and anonymity of booking online. Make sure your website accommodates online appointments and that your telephone number is easy to find on every page of your website.

Car parking: Is it easy for your clients to park outside? Free parking is a distinct advantage in a city location and can make the difference for many clients. So consider this when choosing your location.

Services: Your website acts as a brochure for your website. Why should a client trust you? What do you offer? How much does it cost? What are your unique selling points (USPs)? If you offer unique services, such as hot towel shaves or colouring, make sure you draw attention to these on your website and in your marketing.

First impressions count​

Remember that your website and how your phone is answered could be a clients’ first interaction with your brand. So both should be professional and reflect how you want your business to be perceived. Every interaction needs to engender trust and professionalism.

Telephone: Telephone calls should be promptly and professionally handled with a welcoming tone of voice. How a phone is answered will give the client a distinct impression of how they will be looked after during their visit.

Website: Your website represents you. Therefore, it must be branded to match your logo and your shop design. It’s especially important that it looks good, is easy to navigate and is well written. Barbers are in the business of making people look good so your web design is particularly important. Good design gives the sub-conscious message that you will also be good at ‘designing’ hair. Include positive client feedback so that new clients can feel confident that you can be trusted.

Barbershop: As soon as a client steps through your door, they should be able to feel at ease and confident that they are in good hands. If you know them, welcome them by name – remembering them will begin the process of making them feel valued and special. Invite them to take a seat. If they are early or there’s a delay, let them know how long it will be until they are seen. Offer a complementary drink. Everything should be done to make them feel appreciated and well cared for – even before they have sat down in your barber’s chair.

Dress code: Does your team look the part and represent your brand? It might sound obvious but your barbers have to give your clients the impression that you’re a professional, cutting-edge salon. So ensuring that their own hair and what they wear is as important as your branding and your salon decor.

"One of Men’s Grooming Ireland’s USPs is that we really listen to and pay attention to our clients"

Listen and empathise​

The initial consultation is crucial to creating a happy customer. One of Men’s Grooming Ireland’s USPs is that we really listen to and pay attention to our clients. What do they want? What is bothering them about their current hair cut or styling? What do they like/don’t like about their appearance? All of this is helps us discover how we can solve their hair and beard care issues for them. Put your self in their shoes, their age, their hair type or skin issues. How can you help them most?

Some clients may be shy to talk or may not be able to express what is bothering them most, so careful and considered questions may be necessary to get to the root of what they want or need. For example, if they ask simply for a ‘trim’ what does that mean to them? It could mean very different things to different men. Checking in with a client at every stage of the haircut or barber service is also important. Many clients do not feel able to speak out if you have not given them the haircut that they want and will only let you know by not booking again.

Give sound advice​

Once you have listened, it’s your turn to talk. Repeat back to your client what you have heard and learnt from them so that they know they have been understood. Phrases such as,”What I understand from you is….” or “ “I can see that ….. is really frustrating you” go a long way to establishing a rapport with your client.

Explain to them what you propose to do to help them and what styles will and won’t suit their skin and hair type. Is there a simple change you can suggest that will make all the difference?

Solve their (hair) problems​

If, like our Creative Director, Andy Kozlov, you are very experienced and already speak the ‘language of hair”, you may already know what your clients’ issues are before they have even spoken. Solving the main issue for your client – whether it is styling, hair loss or skin issues – is key to creating a happy customer experience.

If you stock your own haircare range, this is a great time to introduce innovative products that your client might never have seen or used before. A new product could be the perfect solution for their haircare issues together with your expert advice on care regimes to help solve hair and skin complaints.

Personalise your service​

Every type of person and personality are going to grace your chair. Personalising your service and your chat are key to making everyone feel comfortable.

Making notes after each client visit can really help you to achieve this. How did they like their hair cut? Did they want hair tonic or styling products? Did you talk about a specific event or issue? Remembering the little details about their life and their preferences helps you to help them feel special on their next visit.

Gaging the amount of conversation your client would like is also an art form in itself. Some will come back to you just because they got on well with you and enjoyed the craic. Others might prefer to sit in silence. Unfortunately, we can’t tell you how to do this – this is an instinctual knowledge that definitely develops with experience.

Create an experience​

No matter how bad your day is going, you need to leave your troubles at home and be ready with a smile and a tale for your client. After all, you are there to make them look and feel better.

At Men’s Grooming Ireland, we teach our barbers to treat their clients as they would want their fathers to be treated – therefore every interaction should be respectful, thoughtful and caring. Other barbers cater for a younger, trendier market and therefore might want to ramp up the ‘attitude’ or swagger to suit their image.

Think about the small but impactful additional services you can provide for your clients. Even if they’ve come in for a simple haircut, can you include careful edging, an eyebrow trim, top-notch styling and a splash of cologne to complement the haircut? It is the extra details that will create the all important emotional impact of your service.

Also think about if you have the ambience in your barbershop just right for your clients? Does the decor, music and smell of the salon suit your core customers? A haircut is a very sensory affair therefore the look, sound and smell of your salon also contribute to the total experience.

Care - to the very end​

The customer experience does not end until your client has left the premises. We encourage our barbers to escort their clients to the very end, including taking payments and helping them into their coats. You can show them the products you used on their visit, but don’t be pushy. And wishing them a warm farewell means they will leave feeling as important as they did when they arrived – only they will feel and look important too.

King for the visit​

Whatever service they have received, our clients need to leave feeling like they’ve been king for the hour. It is well established that people remember their experience beyond the service. With social media channels and Google reviews providing such a wide reach, you can create no better marketing than a satisfied customer sharing their story with friends and family. In a nutshell, providing a great experience leads to great brand awareness and your strongest marketing will be via word-of-mouth.

 

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