2025 is already so close to being with us, and as for salon owners and stylists, it’s the perfect time to start reflecting and planning for the new year ahead. With the hairdressing industry being a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry, you need to set actionable goals that keep your salon and team ahead of the game. As we welcome the new year, let’s dive into some resolutions to inspire your salon to thrive, build a stronger client base, and ensure you stay motivated throughout the new year. Let’s dive into how you can make 2025 a successful one…

Take some downtime to get creative and envision the goals you want to achieve within the new year. Include a collection of photos or words that provide inspiration or are future achievements, such as dream brand collaborations, salon aesthetics, or milestone achievements. Place your board somewhere visible for your whole team to see, and that can be set as a daily reminder of what you want to achieve. Revisit this throughout the year to ensure your team stays motivated and make time to refocus on unachieved goals.

2024 has proven that being savvy on social media can do wonders for your salon and open up a number of opportunities, from increasing your clientele to working with the top brands in the industry. Within the new year, create a monthly marketing plan that ensures you cover all marketing principles, such as social media, email, and SMS to promote in-salon promotions, trending hair looks, and days in the life within your salon. Use email marketing and SMS to remind clients about appointments, share promotions, or announce new services or upcoming events. Consistency is key, so don’t give up! Set aside time to create & schedule content so you can stay on track and watch the marketing magic happen.

Give your service menu a refresher to get your clients excited about returning to the salon. Add trend-led offerings, such as seasonal hair treatments or bespoke cutting technique services. Why not implement a new loyalty scheme? This is a great way to ensure your clients remain loyal while giving back! Does your consultation process need an upgrade? Tailor the consultation process to be more individual to the client so they feel confident in what services they are paying for. Even the small touches of a drink menu upgrade or refreshed waiting area can make all the difference.

2024 was all about knowing the latest trends with clients being heavily influenced by the latest hair colours, cuts and styles. Make 2025 the year of mastering the trends, to ensure you know what your clients want to re-create. Use platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest and of course, the Alan Howard blog to stay on top of seasonal trends that also make the perfect content creation opportunity!

Don't forget to keep an eye out through our Instagram account, @alanhowardltd for all the trending hair content.

Up-skilling your team (and yourself) can help with continuous learning that keeps your salon at the forefront of the industry. With Alan Howard Education, your team can take advanced courses with industry-leading professionals on colour, cutting and styling. The skills you gain will boost your team's confidence knowing they’re staying on top of new techniques and trends to ensure you deliver the best results for your clients.

Get ahead of your admin game this year by keeping organised with booking management, stock inventory and finances. Make sure your salon is kept tidy, throwing out any neglected products, or purchasing brand-new tools fresh for the new year. Whatever you have been putting off, have the start of a new year be the motivation you need to get it done! Schedule time every week so you don't end up with an overload of tasks. You'll feel much better for it and will be ready to take on the new year.

While the start of the new year can be overwhelming, by following these resolutions and keeping organised, you can be sure to make 2025 the year of salon success. We wish your salon and your clients a very Happy New Year!