This is a subject that keeps coming up for people at the moment. Entrepreneurs really struggling with feeling lonely, isolated, like they don’t have a support network, there is no-one to share your load, the challenges of running a salon, or even the joys of your small successes. The thing is you can be lonely even when you’re surrounded by people.
Many salon owners also report financial concerns as a reason for this increasing level of isolation and possible anxiety. To prevent this isolation from becoming overwhelming, it is important to put a strategy in place that will help you to manage the demands of being an effective salon owner.
It is important to recognise the signs and triggers of entrepreneur isolation, and experiment with various management strategies to find out what works best for you.
The first thing I want you to know is, you are NOT alone in this. It’s really VERY common BUT there are lots of ways to make sure it doesn’t happen to you.
1. Grow and embrace an online community of like-minded people. Social media is not just for selling or marketing. It can also be used to connect with other industry professionals through Facebook groups and communities, Instagram and Twitter lists. Locate Your Look has some salon social groups you can join.
2. Allocate time in your diary to go out and network – when it is safe to do so of course. It is crucial to form real world business connections, even if it is just for a ten minute Zoom catch up and a cup of coffee. Networking events are very useful for creating business links and connections, but also to get the sense of community and find a support network. With the pressures of the salon, it is easy to find reasons for not taking time out of the building, so make this a priority on your to do list. Be part of the Salon Chat Room and the Salon Round Table Discussions, where you can connect and learn from other industry professionals.
3. In the early stages of growing a salon there is a tendency to focus only on your never ending to do list. Make time to celebrate achievements and salon milestones, as much as to focus on the to do lists. This also means that you are constantly looking ahead and not getting stuck in the present daily salon operations. Celebrating achievements at the end of each week or month will give you a renewed sense of purpose and energy. You deserve to receive the recognition for your hard work and dedication. Locate Your Look members receive recognition awards monthly that keeps their team highly motivated and positive
4. Find an accountability partner to keep you motivated and driving forward. It can be hugely beneficial to find another salon owner who is at a similar stage of business to you, that you can easily relate to and bounce ideas or frustrations with. Being part of the Locate Your Look Family is the perfect partner for your business.
The Key People to Turn to for Support
Partner – Your partner will understand your work/life balance and can provide a personal perspective as well as give you some emotional support.
Employees – Your team can be a good sounding board for many aspects of your business. They understand your business, but for major strategic decisions, you should remain cautious.
Business Partner – Your business partner will understand the intricacies of the business and the challenges you face. They will provide the advantage of shared decision making.
Mentor – Everyone should have a good mentor to turn to for impartial business advice and inspiration. This person can guide and support you while being detached from your everyday business. Locate Your Look offers a FREE mentoring programme you can benefit from.
Friend – This person could be someone you trained with at college, a former business partner or boss. This person is invaluable because they can provide life advice and social connections.
You should need to feel alone. If you would like to know about becoming a member of Locate Your Look contact us today and start enjoying all the benefits and grow your business without feeling lonely or isolated.
