HAIRBIZ Year 17 Issue 2

The original ammonia free colour just got better.

PUBLISHER

Linda Woodhead linda@mochagroup.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER

Jarred Stedman jarred@mochagroup.com.au

EDITOR

Louise May louise@mochagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Nina Barbara nina@mochagroup.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Kellie Woodhead kellie@mochagroup.com.au

ADMINISTRATION

Jess Richmond jess@mochagroup.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise May

Lyndal Salmon

Sarah Nav Daalen

Anthony Nader

Kristina Russell

Anthony Gray

Keira Maloney

Kristie Kesic

Tina Winchester

Angeli Maria Shaw

Dario Cotroneo

Paul Frasca

Clive Allwright

Brodie Lee Tsiknaris

Gary Latham

Kerrie Di Mattia

Hayley Mears

Nicole Healy

Ryan Maddock

David Watts

Jenni Tarrant

Anthony Presotto

Larissa Macleman

Kym Krey

Phil Smith

OFFICE

PO BOX 252

Helensvale Plaza

Qld 4212

P: 07 5580 5155 mail@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au

DISTRIBUTION

Australia Post - Print Post

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PRINTING Printcraft

PUBLISHED BY mocha group

PUBLISHERS OF HAIRBIZ, BEAUTYBIZ & BARBERSHOP

HAIRBIZ is published six times a year by mocha publishing ABN 65 091 846 189

No Part of the publication may be reproduced

EDITOR’S LETTER

There is so much talk going on at the moment, regarding client cancellations, reschedules and stretching out of appointments, across the industry. You see many posts about it in Facebook groups, and it’s majority of salons.

Many salons feel the flow on effect, 6-8 weeks after shutting the salon and having a break after Christmas and New Year.

My view on shutting down for a week or two, is that it is fine as long as you have a strategy around closing and what that looks like financially for the business long term.

Many salons close and that’s great, but then panic when 6-8 weeks after they were closed, have a downturn in figures as they didn’t have rebooked appointments during that shutdown period, and they stress because it’s quiet.

Add to that, the rollercoaster ride that we are feeling with the economy at the moment, and it all feels a bit daunting…

Here are a few tips around having a successful start to the year and to remain as consistent as possible with turnover and client numbers.

Have a well mapped out marketing strategy for the year and forward plan for your quieter periods, and make sure you align your social media content plan with this.

Consultation is Key! Focus on solving your client’s hair problems, not just doing what they have booked in for. By giving a thorough consultation, and working out a maintenance plan and home hair care plan, you will increase your average client bill, your rebooking rate will be strong, and your clients will walk out happy because you are solving their problems.

Always quote before you start your client, this avoids bill-shock. This allows the client to work within their budget, and if they are quoted beforehand, they then know that they have the extra funds to purchase their home haircare that has been prescribed for them. This also builds trust with your client, as you are guiding them and have transparency.

Take a booking fee for all appointments, and have a solid cancellation policy, and set clear boundaries. If people don’t want to pay a booking fee, then they aren’t serious about showing up.

Morning huddles with your team, are a must! An NRL team does not run out onto the field before a game, without a team huddle ‘pump-up’ first! The coach is always with them in a circle and getting them focused and totally in the zone before the game begins.

Get your team focused, get them pumped for each day, let them know where they are at, and discuss and plan how they are going to reach their goals, and don’t forget to share with them daily how they are tracking.

It is also much easier to find extra money within your business, than trying to get new bums on seats. Focus on looking after the clients that you have, and servicing them correctly. Focus on strengthening and lifting your average client bill.

Remember where focus goes, energy flows!

Now for the contents of this issue… it is certainly jam packed.

We take you inside the Hot Shots House, where we spent a few days with the 2022 Hot Shot Winners. It was a truly fabulous few days in the house, with many guest industry mentors sharing their wise words with the Hot Shots Team, our sponsors coming in and bringing gifts for the team, and lots of fun was had over the few days. You can read all about it, in this issue.

We feature the amazing Tracey Hughes, Carlie Bridle from Adelaide salon ‘The Hair and Body Lab’, and we meet Hot Shot winner Hayley Warner from Oscar & Oscar in Carindale, QLD.

We spend 20 minutes with the very funny Roland Semaarn, and we cross the ditch and feature Luca Hairstyling, New Zealand.

Featuring from the UK is Emy Roccabella, and from Hawaii we get the low-down on Total Coaching Academy’s latest Business Retreat.

With all of this and more, plus not forgetting our business writers and bloggers and marketing experts, who deliver the most amazing advice for our salon owners, I hope you enjoy this issue.

Love to all.

Louise May, HAIRBIZ EDITOR louise@mochagroup.com.au

THIS GIRL IS ON FIRE

By Louise May

The British Hairdressing Award Newcomer of the Year category has been the launchpad for some of hairdressing’s biggest careers. This year’s winner, Emy Roccabella is hoping her trophy will take her all the way to the top

Growing up in the Marche region of Italy, close to Ancona, Emy Roccabella was surrounded by hairdressing. Her mother ran a salon, and she says herself, “I always expressed myself creatively.” After completing school and two years at an Italian hairdressing academy, she packed her bags and set off for London.

“I’d never been to London before and I barely spoke a word of English,” she confides. “But I knew there were more creative possibilities in London, and I wanted to challenge myself.” In what may later look like a divine stroke of luck, her job hunt brought her to Danilo Hair Boutique run by Danilo Giangreco on the Fulham Road. The salon’s philosophy of beautiful, timeless hairdressing coupled with its Italian heritage was the perfect match and Emy joined the team as an assistant.

After six months learning the ropes, Emy took an opportunity at a different salon and what followed was an incredibly busy three years. “I was learning the language at college, working on the salon floor, talking to people, growing in confidence.” Perhaps inevitably though, Emy was drawn back to the nurturing environment of Danilo’s and the man she calls, “my mentor”. Danilo was building an inspired, talented team around him and cultivating a reputation on the international hairdressing stage. To Emy, it just felt “like home”.

Describing Danilo as “a positive presence in my life,” Emy says, “He’s a doer and he can make people’s dreams come true. He’s an inspiration to be around because everything is done with excellence – whether that’s every day in the salon or working on shoots and shows.” The salon attracts high-quality clients, which Emy credits for pushing her to deliver the best standards, but there’s also an incredible team spirit, a creative buzz, and a supportive environment at Danilo Hair Boutique, which has no doubt driven her to excel.

Determined and ambitious, Emy was picked for the Fellowship ClubStar Art Team – the mentoring programme designed to develop artistic talent and engagement out of the salon environment. Due to the restrictions of lockdown, Emy got to be part of the team for two years and is thankful for the opportunities it gave her and the way it allowed her skills to evolve. One pivotal workshop prompted Emy to

redefine her style, “One of the second meetings we had as an Art Team was an Avant-garde course with Anne Veck,“ she recalls. “It opened up my eyes to new possibilities and I decided this was my niche.”

There have been plenty of other opportunities that have allowed Emy to thrive. The Hair Pieces show 2021 presented by Tribu-te Magazine at the Battersea Arts Centre was a chance to showcase her work alongside Danilo and the team and – nerve-rackingly - speak on stage. A moment that proved how far the girl who spoke no English had come since she landed in the UK. In 2022, Emy travelled to Madrid for the Revlon Professional® Front Row Summit and later that year accompanied Danilo to shoot his collection in Australia.

Knowing Emy’s drive, creativity, and meticulous personality, it was Danilo that gave Emy the self-belief to craft her own first photographic collection for the British Hairdressing Awards. Step-by-step, Emy had been investing in furthering her education, watching, and learning on shoots, gathering references, and being pushed on under Danilo’s watchful eye.

When planning the creative approach, Emy was drawn to the world of Avant-garde. “Usually, the Newcomer category can be quite commercial, but I wanted to express this side of myself,” she says. The result is Renewal – a collection inspired by the way fashion is evolving. Emy set out to reuse classic shapes and texture while giving them a new spin and purpose: “I wanted Renewal to have a very organic and soft feeling, nonetheless elegant and current”.

The collection – her very first - struck gold and she picked up the title of Newcomer of the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards 2022 and was also named one of the Finalists in the Up & Coming category of The Big One Trophy. No doubt it’s a success story, but for Emy it’s a love story too. Her and Danilo complement each other creatively and outside the world of work. “We’re together almost 24/7, waking up and going to sleep thinking and talking about hair. It’s intense but I love that.”

In the future, Emy sees herself combining the thrill of session work and shows with her passion for being in the salon. “Every day I use my imagination – wherever I am,” she confesses. “I didn’t know how coming to London would work out for me, but it’s exactly what I was looking for –I’ve found my dimension.” It feels like the journey for this ‘newcomer’ has only just begun.

COLLECTION CREDITS

Hair: Emy Roccabella.

Salon: Danilo Hair Boutique, Chelsea

Photography: Chris Bulezuik

Make up: Grace Hayward

Fashion: Emy Roccabella

ROLAND SEMAARN

By Louise May

Roland Semaarn was terrible in school, he couldn’t concentrate or understand the stuff they were teaching, he was absent a lot. He used to hang out at the local fish and chip shop and play on the pinball machines all day. He would forge his dad’s signature to get out of school, then one day it all came crashing down, as his parents found out he missed about six months of school.

They were so disappointed in me, he says… their only son was not going to be a doctor or lawyer. Roland became a hairdressing apprentice the day he turned fifteen. His aunt was the manager of a salon and offered him a job. It was fun, but he didn’t take it seriously, until he met John Morrey years later. John was like a mentor to me, says Roland. A rockstar of the industry, he had it all… the fame, fortune, and the girls, I wanted to be like him.

Hair Biz Editor Louise May spends 20 minutes with Roland Semaarn, to find out more about his business and personal journey, to date.

Tell us what you do in the industry today. My latest project was relocating Semaarn salon, I decided that a small seven seat salon in the prestigious beach side suburb, Port Melbourne was perfect for my brand, and I love the beach Cafe lifestyle here, it makes me happy to be near the water.

To help us get to know you a little more, would you share a little about your upbringing and where you grew up. I was born in Lebanon and raised in Melbourne; my family is massive. I have about a hundred cousins, and we all lived a few streets away from each other. It was an awesome childhood, and we were a very close family, our parents worked a lot, so the cousins hung out a lot. We would always eat together and look out for each other and if you messed with one cousin, you had to deal with a hundred of us. No one picked on us ever ha-ha, great fun, simple times, and great memories.

What achievement are you most proud of in your life or career?

I’m proud of so many things, firstly that I raised my two sons alone the past eight years. They are my life. My eldest has followed in my footsteps, and started training as a hairdresser, and the younger one can’t wait to join the team at Semaarn, when he finishes year 11.

I feel proud that I managed to grow Semaarn

salon’s from 1 team member to almost fifty full timers in the late 90s. It was the best time, so many wonderful memories for me.

If you weren’t doing what you do now, what alternative career would you consider?

I love helping people and I love children; I would either be a teacher or involved in customer service. I’m happiest with people around me and laughing, feeling good and having fun. I sometimes think I might want to own a farm with lots of animals and I could grow my own food, but I can’t even grow tomatoes, so I’ll probably go hungry.

Three things you’re passionate about:

My new salon, I want to make it a place where every client feels special and attractive and where all staff learn, grow and share. It’s not about me, it’s about the people in my life. I love walking, I walk everywhere. I love discovering new things on my walks, architecture, gardens, old shops, I literally stop and smell the roses and life slows down for me, it helps keep me balanced.

I’m also into classic cars, I love rare old cars that go fast and smell like petrol, guess I might be a petrol head... I hope to restore one with my sons and make it a family project that they can hand down to their sons.

Describe your ideal Sunday.

My perfect Sunday starts about 6am, I usually get my classic car out of storage, give it a clean and then I go to my favourite Cafe for breakfast. Then I usually see who’s up for a Sunday cruise to the Yarra Valley, or the Dandenong’s for lunch. I love getting out of the city on Sundays, then returning home and thinking about a Sunday night cook up for the family.

What’s on your bucket list?

I don’t have one, I’ve done everything, it’s crazy to me not to go out and try new things, I’ve slept on floors, six-star hotels, walked through Europe, back packed across America, parties that last a week, I can’t think of anything that I want to do, that I haven’t done.

Craziest, funniest, or most unusual thing you’ve ever done?

I used to run a weekly party in my apartment, door bitch, security, and DJ, it got so big and out of control that I had to move it to a night club. It got named club Semaarn and it was the hottest night in Melbourne for a decade, people still ask me today if I could do it again, maybe I’ll do one night only.

Pets or no pets?

I owned a mini pig for six months, it didn’t stay mini for long, I think the breeder lied to me because it got huge, I became known locally as the pig man, I didn’t like that title much. I now own a 4 year old cat who is part of our family, and only recently I got a chihuahua (Bruno) from a lady who walked past the salon and had three puppies in a pram. I traded her one-year free hairdressing for Bruno, he’s a funny little puppy about 10cm long.

What’s playing on your Spotify right now?

I’m currently into Lebanese or Arabic house music, I know it sounds weird, but I like the middle eastern sounds mixed with modern beats, it’s different and puts me in a great mood.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I would have abs and have thick afro hair, but I’m bald and I love food, so I’ll keep dreaming. Maybe I could develop more patience too, I struggle with mediocrity or people that don’t push themselves to realise their potential.

If you could leave this industry having achieved just one thing, what would that legacy be?

Have fun, it’s an amazing industry, enjoy making people feel special and don’t take yourself or life too seriously. It will all end eventually and all you’ll have is your memories, we can change lives with what we do.

What’s your greatest fear?

That my sons don’t reach their full potential, it’s a waisted life.

What’s something interesting or quirky we might not know about you?

I have been told I’m high maintenance, I’m not even sure what that means, ha-ha, I just like things done a certain way, I guess.

What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced in the industry and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge is getting staff to realise their true potential, anyone can be great, you just have to work hard and believe in yourself. I try and set an example and I hope that will motivate others around me.

Do you have a motto or signature life philosophy?

Today could be your last day, play hard love hard and don’t waste it. Helping others achieve their goals is my greatest reward.

What is on the agenda for the future for Roland Semaarn?

Keep playing, trying to be better each day, and most importantly sharing our love with everyone who come in contact with Semaarn. We want to influence and change lives for the better.

“TODAY COULD BE YOUR LAST DAY, PLAY HARD LOVE HARD AND DON’T WASTE IT. HELPING OTHERS ACHIEVE THEIR GOALS IS MY GREATEST REWARD.”

ROLAND SEMAARN

LUCA HAIRSTYLING

A Flagship Salon

KAO Salon Division is thrilled to welcome Wellington’s Luca Hairstyling as a Kao Flagship Salon. “We’re excited to welcome Luca Hairstyling to the Kao Salon family. Salon Owner and Creative Director Sophia Grace has created a beautiful salon destination with a strong focus on quality service and experience. We look forward to supporting Sophia and her team in this true partnership with Kao Salon.” said Rita Marcon, General Manager Kao Salon Division ANZ.

Luca Hairstyling Proudly owned by Sophia Grace, the Wellington salon opened in 2014. Sophia saw hairdressing as a multi-faceted industry where you could be creatively expressive and work intimately with people. Reminiscent of a New York Loft, Luca was perfectly curated by Sophia. A fusion of contemporary, industrial, and classic design. Created as a wellness destination in an abundant space, flooded with natural light in a heritage building.

An impressive salon is matched with outstanding service. “My desire was to create a salon that everyone enjoys coming to, clients and stylists alike feel relaxed, inspired, and looked after. With a commitment to creating the best version of our clients. Being a Kao Flagship Salon means we can offer our clients the best hair care available with Oribe and Goldwell as well as opportunities for my stylists. Kao believes in who we are now, and what we will be in the future,” said Sophia Grace.

Luca stylists pride themselves on customising a classically modern style and expert colour, that enhances the client’s natural beauty while working with their hair’s natural texture. Stylists that understand the difference of skin tone, eye colour, hair texture, lifestyle, manageability, and maintenance.

Kao Salon is known for breakthrough innovations in the salon industry, the

By Louise May

home of luxury hair brand Oribe and Goldwell. Since 2008, Oribe Hair Care has set the standard for hair care within the prestige category. Blending awardwinning packaging and its signature Côte d’Azur fragrance, the collection is designed with talented hairdressers, sophisticated salons, and discerning customers in mind.

For 75 years Goldwell has delivered the latest innovations in combination with the best educated stylists. Making life beautiful for salons, stylists, and their clients.

HAIR BIZ EDITOR CHATS WITH OWNER & DIRECTOR SOPHIA GRACE

How did you get into hairdressing?

What drew you to the industry and what led you to open Luca Hairdressing?

I was studying at Uni, and I became more interested in the sort of working environment I could best see myself suited too. Hairdressing presented a multi-faceted industry where you could be creatively expressive and work intimately with people. Working with an eclectic group of people and the public never allows for a dull day.

When I opened my salon Luca, I was looking to challenge myself in a new way and remain in the hair industry. The creative expression of bringing something into existence is very satisfying.

You have created Luca Hairdressing as a wellness destination, for the mind, body, and soul. What inspired this philosophy and how does it come to life in the salon?

This philosophy is about my desire to create a workspace that everyone enjoys coming too. For clients and Stylists to feel inspired, relaxed, and looked after. Nothing pretentious or intimidating but rather an energy that makes everyone feel at ease and enjoy giving and receiving the services of all things hair. It’s often said when people come into the salon that it “feels” amazing.

The salon is reminiscent of a New York Loft, tell us about the salon look?

The salon look was something personal to me. I didn’t use a designer instead preferring to cultivate my own interior.

It’s a fusion of contemporary, classic, and Industrial. It is a large salon, lots of space and light in a heritage building. It is private and peaceful.

It has a high ceiling and large windows which are great features. It’s much more like coming into an apartment than a salon which I think is part of the appeal.

You are all about creating the best version of your client, carefully considering their look, lifestyle, and hair maintenance. Share the client experience at Luca. At Luca we have all new clients come in for a pre consultation before any service appointment. This ensures we can meet and discuss all the options and goals for the client. We can patch tests for allergies, test strand for lighting processes and quote for services. It also allows the client to meet the stylist and go through a series of designed questions to really enhance the service and ensure a successful outcome.

The luca experience is a treat. You can relax in a beautiful setting, with a French bistro next door you can order food and coffee, listen to great music, read magazines, or plug in and work, a clean clear space with lots of room and light. Looked after exclusively by your stylist.

Describe the staff culture of your salon?

Respectful, supportive, and fun. All striving for the greater good of fabulous hair and service for our clients. Never competitive instead promoting everyone’s own strengths. Helping each other and always happy coming into work each day.

How do you continue to motivate and educate your team?

Change. I love to keep the salon evolving, always maintaining it to be better year on year. And planning, being organised and having a greater vision for the salon and staff and bringing them all on the journey . It takes a team for a sustainable and special salon that people want to visit again and again.

What has been a career highlight and what has been your biggest challenge?

Certainly, opening my salon Luca is a career highlight. Transforming a forgotten space into a salon that so many people connected with. MY biggest challenge like so many has been navigating a business through turbulent economic times , uncertainty and the effects that has on people.

How do you stay ahead of trends in hair? Who inspires you in the industry?

I absorb a lot of what I see and read, and I make sure to actively see and read more of what is beneficial and important to me. I think in a world of information and imagery overload it’s all about being selective and going deeper with that. As a creative it’s very instinctual with relating it back into work life. If you naturally tune in to the good ,at home, work or traveling it will show up every day.

I admire the late Oribe Canales as a hairdresser and session stylist. He I think was the “tom ford” of hair. Glamourising an industry with impeccable attention to detail and contributing to some of the most iconic female looks of our time.

You are an Oribe & Goldwell flagship salon what makes this a great working relationship?

Excellent products , transparency, and opportunities.

Their ability to believe in who we are now and what we will be in the future. A true business partnership with both parties wanting to make the other better.

What do you love about the brands? And favourite products?

Oribe is the most complete, clean, and luxurious range out there.

It’s designed so considerately and full of must-have products. It is the fit I have been looking for in the salon and for clients at home. The imperial royal blowout is masterful, adding density with lightness to a blow wave. Goldlust shampoo and conditioner is spectacular and really sets itself apart with visible results of taming hair in a way that is usually salon achieved. I could go on and on because the range is really incredible in delivering solutions for all hair types. The fact it looks beautiful sitting in your bathroom or dressing room is not a coincidence.

What’s next for Luca Hairdressing?

Expansion. And continuing to cultivate and conceptualise the modern salon experience and service.

FOR THE INDUSTRY BY THE INDUSTRY

MEET

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BRAND – YOUR PARTNERS IN BUSINESS

100% WORTH OF SKILLS Writing Skill 40%

Creativity Skill 20%

Sales & Marketing Skill 50%

Project Management Skill 60%

Industry Knowledge 80%

Time Management Skill 10%

Cooking Skill 20%

Coffee Making Skill 10%

Dancing Skill 10%

Delegation Skill 200% so the skills

above add up to 100!!!

Other Skill? Ordering share plates off a menu, Creating a great spotify playlist, Reiki and firewalking!

ART

Years in the Industry 15+ Years (lost count!)

Years with Mocha

Half my life I am sure!

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 10%

Creativity Skill 40%

Sales & Marketing Skill 10%

Project Management Skill 0%

Industry Knowledge 20%

Time Management Skill 20%

Cooking Skill 5%

Coffee Making Skill 0% (I prefer mine brought to me in bed!)

Dancing Skill 0%

Drinking Skill 100%... fairly certain I could drink Rex under the table ;)

Math Skills Awful... Negative 65%, as you may have noticed from above...

mocha group is made up of a professional team, who have unparalleled combined experience in print and digital media. With added expertise in marketing, PR, communications, brand development, events, awards and competitions servicing the hair, beauty and barber industries, mocha group is a trusted partner for all industry stakeholders, leading by example with integrity, love and respect.

HAIRBIZ/BEAUTY BIZ EDITOR, LOUISE MAY

Years in the Industry 37 Years

Years with Mocha 3 Years

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 20% - I love Grammarly

Creativity Skill 10% I am a big picture person, but I suck at the detail.

Sales & Marketing Skill 10% However people buy from people they like and trust, and I am good at building connection and relationships.

Project Management Skill 0% I outsource that shit lol

GROUP SALES MANAGER

Industry Knowledge 40%

You can never stop learning.

Time Management Skill 5% I have to use the “Pomodoro Method” ie; I set a timer to stay on task.

Cooking Skill 10%

Thank god for taste.com

Coffee Making Skill 0%

Don’t need skill with Nespresso machine

Dancing Skill 5% at the start of the night and improve after a few beverages!!

ONLINE EDITOR CHEREINE WADDELL

Years in the Industry 18+ Years

Years with Mocha 2 Years

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 20%

Creativity Skill 50%

Sales & Marketing Skill 0%

I leave that to hubby

Project Management Skill 10%

Planning our Alice in wonderland

wedding Industry Knowledge 20%

I’m no spring chicken anymore

Time Management Skill 10%

I love a list

Cooking Skill 10% thanks to hello fresh

Coffee Making Skill 0%

I drink instant coffee!

Dancing Skill 0% Despite years of dance classes as a kid

TOTAL 120% coz im awesome!!!

BARBERSHOP EDITOR REX SILVER

Years in the Industry 39 Years

Years with Mocha 5 Years

100% WORTH OF SKILLS

Writing Skill 1%

Creativity Skill 1%

Sales & Marketing Skill 1%

Project Management Skill 1%

Industry Knowledge 1%

Time Management Skill 1%

Cooking Skill 1%

Coffee Making Skill 1%

Dancing Skill 1%

Other Skill? Drinking - 91%

Master this skill…everything else just falls into place!

Hahaha!

THE NEXT REVOLUTION IN BEAUTY-TECH. The ghd duet styler

and editing are permitted but no special effects or text is allowed.

Entries must be by posting directly to Instagram using the hashtag of the relevant category and some other specified tags: #Intercoiffureau_1Styling23, #Intercoiffureau_ CutColour23 or #Intercoiffureau_Open23

L’Oreal Professionnel is once again generously providing education prizes whereby including 1 x complimentary place in the exclusive “L’Oréal Professionnel Styling Artistry” day session, held in the winner’s home state, valued at $325, 1 x complimentary place in the exclusive “L’Oréal Professionnel Colour 1.0” day session, held in the winner’s home state.

The scientists and engineers at ghd have achieved the IMPOSSIBLE. Taking 21 years of heated styling and drying expertise and combining the science of convection and conduction, ghd has created breakthrough AIRFUSION™ technology. AIRFUSION™ technology brings together the power of air flow and the performance of actively heated styling plates to deliver a SLEEK, SMOOTH & GLOSSY style. DIRECTLY FROM WET HAIR, with NO DAMAGE. The NEW ghd Duet Styler featires a unique ghd styling chamber which combines state-of-theart internal airflow aerodynamics with 4 smart low-temperature plates, and efficiently dries and styles hair simultaneously, with faster styling and superior hair results.

www.ghdhair.com/au/discover-hot-air-stylers

JESSICA MAUBOY.

A new ambassador for ghd

The partnership with the beloved singer, songwriter and actress will see Jessica support the world’s leading hair tool brand across social media to her 399,000 Instagram followers, along with media and event apparencies throughout 2023.

ghd ANZ Managing Director, Ludovic Dellazzeri said, “we are thrilled to welcome Jessica Mauboy as a ghd ANZ ambassador for 2023 and we’re so proud to have her as part of the ghd family. Australians adore Jess and consider her one of the top Australian female artists, making her a key role model to consumers. With Jess’s unparalleled appeal and ghd’s leading technology, we are confident this new partnership, and impending new product launch, will ensure ghd to deliver more good hair days for everyone.”

INTERCOIFFURE AUSTRALIA Launches GOAT 23 Apprentice Competition

Intercoiffure Australia Launches its GOAT 23 Apprentice Competition with a New Open Category

Now in its third year, the GOAT 23 Instagram competition for Intercoiffure Australia apprentices will now have a new category open to all apprentices including non-members.

Intercoiffure Australia Artistic Director, Terrina Brown said that all apprentices around Australia are invited to participate in a ‘makeover transformation’ in the new Open category.

The competition opens on Monday, 13 March when an example entry will be posted on Instagram as a guide. Here are the categories:

• First-year Styling (member salons)

• Second and Third-year Cut and Colour (member salons)

• All apprentices (member and non-member salons)

Entry videos must be shot in-salon during the entry period from Monday 13 March and Friday 14 April and be a maximum of 30 seconds in duration. Music

Prominent hairdressers from L’Oreal Professionnel Australia, Intercoiffure Guillaume Fondation Paris, Intercoiffure Mondial, Intercoiffure Oceania selected member and Australia and New Zealand Hairdressers of the Year form the judging panel. Anyone wishing to gain a copy of the Rules and Regulations, please go to intercoiffure.com.au and GOAT23.

SUBSCRIPTION-FREE business software for hair, beauty and

Fresha is the world’s #1 subscriptionfree business software for hair, beauty and wellness that’s trusted by millions in over 120 countries. As an all-in-one platform that combines intuitive salon management, innovative marketing tools, integrated payment processing and a client marketplace, Fresha is helping over 80,000 businesses and 250,000 stylists and professionals put their salons, barbershops and spas in the spotlight.

With more than 500 million appointments booked through Fresha in 2022, businesses using the Fresha marketplace gained 26% more clients on average. Listed companies on Fresha also ranked higher on Google Search and Maps, allowing people to book an appointment directly from the page. The ‘Book Now’ feature on Instagram and Facebook pages provides seamless booking experiences for clients booking at salons on Fresha. www.fresha.com/for-business

THE WAY CANDIDATES ARE LOOKING FOR JOBS IS CHANGING... And so have HeadHunter

For almost three years, HeadHunter Recruitment has pushed to become a trusted vacancies, and connect business owners with the right candidates. We have grown and evolved in that time, providing a vast range of new options and services to help businesses in need.

Well, in 2023 – we’re growing again. HeadHunter has moved to an exciting new and immersive platform to make your job advertising process, and the candidate job searching process, even more streamlined.

Part of this new look HeadHunter for 2023 includes the platform’s move to now include performance-based advertising (also known as programmatic advertising) and AI recruitment, in addition to duration-based advertising (job

Entry via Jazmin Johns of Kaz Hair

Entry via Sam Hancock of Zedz

boards). Using AI (or artificial intelligence) means that your job ads are targeted at a larger yet more precise audience, wherever they might be hanging out online, taking a variety of factors into account, such as location, demographics, user behaviour and online activity.

What does this mean for HeadHunter job advertisers? Recruiters posting on HeadHunter are now able to get more advertising in front of more quality resource for Hairdressing and Beauty businesses to advertise their job candidates for their investment due to advances in technology that we have invested in using artificial intelligence. With the move to programmatic advertising or AI recruitment globally, using HeadHunter, recruiters are now able to get their job ads beyond the job board and in front of the eyes of active and passive candidates looking for roles elsewhere online.

Not only will recruiters have a consistent job board ad presence, the ad will now also have organic redistribution to increase eyes and clicks on the posting and ultimately, reach a more diverse audience, with reduced cost.

Plus, so many more exciting new features! www.headhunter.org.au

L’Oreal Australia and New Zealand announces NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR, CARLOS FIGUEIRAS

L’Oréal welcomes its new Managing Director, Carlos Figueiras. Figueiras has over 15-years of experience managing selective beauty and luxury brands across different trade channels in Europe (Spain), North America and Latin American, working closely with local market retailers, distributors, subsidiaries, and travel retail. Prior to his role as Managing Director, he was at L’Oréal Professional Products Division in Spain for over five years, most recently as its Omnichannel General Manager, but previously as the General Manager – L’Oréal Professionnel and Division Transformation Director and General Manager – Kérastase and Shu Uemura. On his new role, Figueiras said, “I am excited and honoured by the opportunity to lead L’Oréal’s strong teams across Australia and New Zealand, continuing to support and develop the hairdressing industries in these markets sustainably. We will continue to work hand-in-hand with salons and hairdressers and look forward to creating further connections between our brands, professionals, and consumers in this fantastic market in the years to come. Together with all our partners, we will create beauty that moves the world. Focused through our powerful and complementary brands - L’Oréal Professionnel, Kérastase, Redken, Pureology, Biolage, and Matrix - constantly innovating, leading the way on digitalization and education, pushing the boundaries, creating premium pro services and highlighting all the artistry of this amazing industry ”

APPRENTICE TRAINING PROGRAM

Megan Evans, owner of Adelaide’s In Awe Salon and In Awe Education, has channelled her education passion, savvy and energy into the development of a comprehensive, evidencebased Apprentice Training program designed to guide Salon Managers and In-salon Educators to mentor their team in their quest to be phenomenal hairdressers.

A salon owner for over 15 years, Megan has embraced the education journey of every one of her team members over the years, and more recently, recognising the value an Apprentice Training guide will have within the industry.

“There are 5 levels to work through in the guide – Salon Assistant, Junior Apprentice, Apprentice Colourist, Apprentice Stylist and Senior Apprentice. It’s essentially a check list that directs the salon owner to know what’s next in the apprentice training journey, which ultimately simplifies part of the education process,” says Megan.

www.inaweeducation.com

CRAZY COLOUR NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH M&U IMPORTS

The Hair industry is in a buzz with the news M&U IMPORTS will be the Australian distributors of CRAZY COLOUR

HERE ARE 10 REASON WHY THE PROFESSIONAL HAIR INDUSTRY LOVES CRAZY COLOUR

1. Vegan-friendly Whether you’re using Crazy Color rose gold hair dye or an edgy neon green hair dye, you can be confident that every shade is 100% veganfriendly and cruelty-free.

2. No ammonia or PPD

You won’t find any nasties in these vivid hair colours. Formulated without ammonia or PPD, Crazy Colour hair dye is kind to your client’s hair, causing less damage and reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

3. Conditioning Formula

Not only are the formulas free from harsh chemicals, but they’re also enriched with caring ingredients that condition and protect the hair as you colour. No more brittle ends or breakage-prone locks, your clients will enjoy radiant, touchable soft results.

4. Ready to use

Crazy Color hair dye is a time-saving salon saviour! With no need for peroxide, Crazy Color can be worked directly into the hair and develops in as little as 15 minutes. No wonder it’s popular in salon!

5. Over 40 shades

With over 40 shades of Crazy Color semi-permanent hair dye to choose from, there really is no need to compromise on your client’s desired result. You can even use selected shades of Crazy Color on dark hair for a pop of colour vibrancy. Clients after a more subdued tone? Then Crazy Color Neutral has the answer –simply add this to your chosen shade for a softer, pastel tone.

6. Ultimate, unlimited creativity

Not only is there an amazing selection to choose from, but all Crazy Color shades are fully intermixable. Mix up the perfect bespoke shade for any colour request and enjoy unlimited creativity.

7. Colours that glow!

Got a client who REALLY wants to stand out? You’ve got to check out the UV hair dye collection. These outrageously vibrant shades literally glow in the dark so they’ll never go unnoticed again!

8. Made in the UK

Crazy Color hair dye is made in the UK, so you can be confident in the amazing quality of the products as well as minimising your salon’s carbon footprint. An absolute win-win.

9. Iconic bottles If you’re a lover of Crazy Color hair dye, then you know aesthetic is queen! These iconic pink bottles look absolutely gorgeous on your salon shelves and are so easily recognised by clients far and wide.

10. Decades of expertise – and still going strong!

With over 40 years of colouring expertise, Crazy Color hair dye is so reliable, providing the most jaw-dropping colour results every time. Still the industry’s favourite vibrant colour range after all this time, why choose anything else?!

NOW AVAIALBLE AT M&U IMPORTS www.muimports.com.au

FREE LUNCHES AND HAIRCUTS provided to those in need!

hairdressers alike,” says Brian.

FABRIQ has two in-salon treatments based around a ‘Quick Fix’ and ‘Reset’, and these are supported by two aftercare/at-home ranges, which are essential for achieving the best results from the in-salon treatments and ensuring the effects last.

The brand is also enthusiastically endorsed by three times British Hairdresser of the Year, Sally Brooks, appointed as the FABRIQ Global Ambassador.

“FABRIQ is more than just a product. It lets us have the hair we dream of and manage it ourselves, whatever our lifestyle. Behind the scenes is a team of creative, inspiring people who really care about their brand - I believe in the product and the passion behind it,” says Sally.

Say the Smiths, “We truly believe FABRIQ is the next generation of proteinbased in-salon treatments and at-home aftercare, that will deliver straighter, smoother hair, natural curls with amazing definition and will create the perfect canvas for hairdressers to unleash their creativity on the healthiest, strongest, easiest-to-manage hair. We can’t wait to connect with our local hairdressing industry and share this extraordinary opportunity with them.”

To hear more about the FABRIQ hype, visit: www.smithscollectivebrands.com.au

The Arvo Haircare team recently visited Emmanuel City Mission, supported by Kombi Clinic to provide 180 lunches and over 40 haircuts to those who need it the most.

“To be able to contribute our time and skills to those who are less fortunate, not only to see the smiles on their faces with their fresh haircuts and beard trims, but also to provide them a cooked meal when they are too often not knowing where or when their next meal will be, was humbling to say the least,” said Kerry Lewis, Co-founder and MD of Arvo

“The day was a huge success and our hairdressing clients who gave up their time on their days off to help were amazing. We are so thankful and grateful because without the support of our salons, this would not be possible and for me, this is what makes it all worthwhile.”

SMITHS COLLECTIVE Brands Appointed Official Australian Distributor of UK haircare brand, FABRIQ.

Renowned for introducing boutique and innovative hair care brands to the Australian/NZ markets, Smiths Collective Brands has added another brand to their product stable, appointed the Australian/ NZ Distributor of UK brand, FABRIQ.

The dynamic and irrepressible duo of Brian and Jane Smith continue to capitalise on their promise to source and deliver high performance, cutting-edge products for the Australia/NZ markets, with FABRIQ, a range of protein-based personalised in-salon treatment, and a range of home care proteinbased products.

“FABRIQ offers another unique opportunity from the UK for keratin-based products, and truly reinforces the innovation and cutting-edge behind where keratin technology is heading in the future, and we’re thrilled to introduce hairdressers to the amazing insalon and at-home treatments of FABRIQ,” say the Smiths.

“The protein technology behind FABRIQ and the treatments/ products ability to transform every hair type is what makes FABRIQ a game-changer for salons and

THE COLOUR KRISTINA TALKS Podcast for Hairdressers

Would you like to listen and learn about all aspects of the hair industry on a free and easy-to-access platform? Podcasts are perfect for learning new skills, strategies, and techniques. All you need is a device and headphones to listen.

The Colour Kristina Talks Podcast for Hairdressers has been downloaded more than 95,000 times. The show has been helping hairdressers and salon owners across the globe feel connected and inspired since it launched in January 2020.

The Colour Kristina Talks Podcast for hairdressers shares practical industry advice for colour-loving hairdressers and hair salon owners wanting to grow their confidence with all things colour, consultation, personal branding, creating your niche clientele, social media and biz tips, plus how to stay inspired and more.

It is a hybrid-style show that mixes up guest interviews with colourful solo episodes all carefully curated by the podcast show host, Kristina Russell, to deliver a well-balanced mix of education, inspiration and entertainment with guests hand-picked to chat about biz tips to help listeners elevate their craft. There are more than 130+ episodes ready to click and listen to whenever you like wherever you like. That’s the beauty of podcasts! They are evergreen. Available on all the best apps, including Spotify, iTunes and Google Play. New episodes are weekly on Wednesdays!

There are weekly blogs with show notes also available if you like to read along or copy and paste key points into your phone notes to refer back to as needed. Or if you’re not a podcast listener and would prefer to read an article, you can just check out the Colour Kristina Podcast blog at www.kristinarussell.com.au

Several episodes include a podcast freebie. Everyone loves a freebie, right?! That’s why some guests and Kristina have created downloadable learning guides, including free eBooks, staff guides, consultation checklists, and more. The best way to find these freebies is to head to the website or click the link on Kristina’s Instagram @colourkristina

This show is dedicated to showing you how to scale your salon business and paint every hair colour request with artistic finesse. Every weekly episode is free to subscribe to listen to on your favourite apps and also available online at www. kristinarussell.com.au with a blog and learning resources shared on the same topic.

Timely Launches Mental Health training for Beauty Therapists and Hairdressers to help support clients

This week, Timely is launching the first of its kind Virtual Masterclass in partnership with Tom Chapman focusing on Mental Health Awareness, making it the first booking tool industry-wide to incorporate educational certification into its product offering

Two years in the making, the course provides Business Owners and their team members with the skills required to recognise the signs and listen with empathy by teaching professionals how to help clients in need find the correct help.

Designed not to diagnose, advise or prescribe, but instead to create a safer, more understanding environment at work and in the salon, this Masterclass teaches respect, sensitivity and understanding to hair and beauty professionals those who are treating clients navigating tough times.

This important piece of work has been led by EverCommerce’s Head of Strategic Partnerships for Timely, Tamara Reid, who has been responsible for bridging the gap between technology and the professional hair and beauty industry.

“Here at Timely, we’re passionate about helping hair and beauty therapists provide an exceptional client experience, and if we can empower professionals to do that through continual learning on topics like mental health, leadership and communication, then we know we’re giving back to the industry in the best way possible. What we hope is that this Masterclass gives attendees the confidence to become the bridge between the clients they treat, and the organisations that are available.” said Tamara. “As we know, professionals working in the hair and beauty industry are in an incredibly privileged position of trust and intimacy. They often share raw and real stories with us about their lives and the people around them, which sometimes can be difficult to facilitate. With Tom Chapman as a facilitator on this Masterclass guiding us through these often sensitive conversations, we’re excited to be able to offer this much needed content!”

Timely partner Tom Chapman of The Lions Barber Collective, said “‘72% of those who take their life have had no contact with mental health services in the 12 months before they die, but they have probably had a haircut or beauty treatment. The hair, barber and beauty industry infrastructure is incredible, we are on every high street from villages to cities serving the communities. We

don’t want turn them into doctors or therapists, far from it, the idea is that we can bridge the gap between the communities we serve and the resources available.”

The Mental Health Masterclass is a two-hour training course which takes the learner through four pillars of awareness; Recognise, Ask, Listen and Help and is available online to all hair and beauty professionals - Timely customer or not. The Masterclass can be accessed via www.gettimely.com/mental-health-masterclass

HAIR SHOTS 2 THE WORLD Announces its 2022 Collection of the Year

Well the wait is over, all media is in from around the world, and the winner of the Hair Shots 2 The World 2022 Collection of the Year is No Vacancy by Bernadette Beswick and Stevie English.

Hair Shots 2 The World’s Leanne Cutler said that the award went to the collection that achieved most covers in a calendar year.

“Congratulations to Bernadette and Stevie, who’s synergy shines bright in this stunning multi-award winning collection,” Leanne said. “Editors around the world have recognised the excellence in cut and colour in this outstanding collection shot by industry legend, Andrew O’Toole.”

The collection also won notoriety here in Australia winning Stevie and Bernie, 2022 AHIA Creative Victorian Hairdresser of the Year, Colour Expert of the Year and Best Colab!

Hair Shots 2 The World has been distributing hair fashion collections to hair media worldwide for 12 years.

“Print and digital hairdressing media happily co-exist and whilst they have been many changes since commencing the world-first, dedicated service in 2010, editors have always demanded high quality images which is something Australia and New Zealand do well at producing,” Leanne said.

Enquiries can be sent to Leanne Cutler: DM @hairshots2theworld or 0400790060.

Tom Chapman, founder of The Lions Barber Collective

“Why I love the new ”

The most professional luxurious colour experience powered by oil and personalised with tech can now boast an upgraded product as well as a unique hair tech diagnosis.

Originally launched in 2009, iNOA by L’Oréal Professionnel was a true pioneer of no-ammonia hair colour.

It is the ultimate ‘love brand’ by hairdressers and consumers alike with research showing the ‘No Ammonia’ experience, Oil delivery system, oil-based formula, unique colour result, white hair coverage, development time and 1+1 mixing ratio makes it stand out as the #1 top-of-mind ammonia free brand that offers no comparison on colour performance.

What has changed, to make even better however, is the new vegan formula**, no additive waxes, ODS technology (60% oil-

based formula), no odour, easier and faster application, up to 100% grey coverage with lively & true-to-tone result, 48% shinier hair*** and reinforced scalp hydration by +20%****

Recent research concludes that 25% of consumers would be more likely to choose a salon if they used ammonia-free hair colour and 22% of consumers would be willing to pay more for their haircolour service if the products were ammoniafree and odourless! With that in mind at the recent L’Oréal Professionnel artistic conference, artists got their hands on the NEW iNOA, trialling the product and working on hair.

Here’s what they thought…

“iNOA is Oil based, no wax, easy to remove, 100% coverage and ammonia free… what can’t you love? My Pro Tip is to achieve apricot or beautiful coppers use the grey with no base.” Ash Croker, The Salon by Ash Croker

“Push your blondes to another level, I love iNOA for face breakers, hair lines and experimenting with different dimensions around the face.” Brodie-Lee Tsiknaris, Rokstar

“iNOA colour leaves hair shiny and healthy and as a stylist I love dimension - iNOA has tons of it.” Damien Rinaldo, Boris the Cuttery

“Pro Tip: With copper shades on a base level I add a quarter to half a tube of clear to really pastilise my base.” Danni Solier, LNDN

“I love the amazing shine and how iNOA makes my clients feel after their colour service” Jamie Furlan, LNDN

“Pro Tip: Use 10vol on the roots and 20vol on ends, that way you won’t get any glowing on the roots.“ Joe Cotroneo, Zink the Element of Hair, Unley

“I love the luminosity and the shine iNOA gives the hair once all finished and blow dried.” Jordan Hone, Sloans Salons

“Pro Tip: Use the reflect on different levels to create really multi-dimensional colour.” Karen Bava, Parlour

“What I really love about iNOA is the Oil delivery system, the way it punches colour into the hair gives maximum delivery and amazing result.” Massimo Tirimacco, Zo Hair

“Pro Tip: Working a lot with blondes and root shadows, if grey is coming through use10vol to transition to an all over colour.” Melissa Gesualdo, Reno’s

“If you have a client that has a sensitive scalp my Pro Tip would be to only use iNOA!” Peter Thomsen, Chelsea Haircutters

“I absolutley love the shine and gloss iNOA brings to the hair.” Robert Bava, Parlour Hair

“I am directing all my clients to use iNOAfor its high shine, high gloss and lasting condition. My clients love it!”

Sloans Salons

“What I love about iNOA is the feeling of applying it. It literally glides through the hair and the results are amazing.” Tiffany Decaux, Boris the Cuttery

hotshots house ‘23

By Linda Woodhead

Arriving at the HOT SHOTS mansion in Yarraville, Melbourne in February were 4 very excited members of the 2021/22 Team, eager to experience what many have done before them, in a program that has evolved into the most coveted award to win, for young hairdressers in Australia.

Team members ELLE COCO

- Jack Horton Hair, HAYLEY WARNER - Oscar Oscar Salons, LOUISE GRAHAMHey Hair and TIA WRIGHTPIHAMA - Toni&Guy Perth , came ready without expectation for a 4 day house visit, which turned into a journey of selfdevelopment, mentorship, laughter, tears and emotional, spiritual and professional growth, guided along the way by the CEO and founder of HOT SHOTS and mocha group, LINDA WOODHEAD, General Manager JARRED STEDMAN and all looked after by editor of Hair Biz and salon mentor, LOUISE MAY

The team had already received a full electrical kit from sponsors ghd, a styling kit from Goldwell and some personalised travel and stationery goods from mocha.

First cab off the rank via zoom, on Day 1 just before traditional spaghetti bolognaise greeting dinner, was none other than Jayne Wild and Gary Latham , who gave the team a birds eye tour of their spectacular salon and talked about their incredible history and careers. With Jayne being the Creative director for the team, this got the ball rolling on thinking about the upcoming photo shoot due to happen early April with the maestro, Mr. Andrew O’Toole – another part of the priceless prize package!

Early night and early to rise with Day 2 kicking off with Linda sharing her knowledge of Media with the team and how to work within the realms of PR and publicity, as well as a trip down memory lane looking at icons from the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th Century in hair!

First cab off the rank in a long line of visitors were the dynamic duo Dee Parker Attwood and Lyndal Salmon . Dee and Lyndal spoke about putting together photoshoots, how to prepare, what to do, model selection and much more including their diverse loves of styling and cutting

followed by Louise May getting the team to do some SWOT analysis in preparation for more to come.

Via Zoom we welcomed Richard Kavanagh ; a new visitor to the house, but on that will definitely be invited back!! Richard shared his session and photography secrets with the team, who were quite literall yon the end of their seats practising poses and look to help better their phot skill set in the future.

Next up was Roland Semaarn - Semaarn Salons , giving the team some insight into owning a large group of salons some years ago; the systems and procedures and how customer service was paramount, to now opting for more of a lifestyle choice with a single salon, and sprinkling some comic relief into his session!

The charismatic Dario Cotroneo finsihed off the day for the team Via Zoom. Always a pleasure and a long-standing supporter of the HOT SHOTS program. Sharing great advice, stories and inspiration to all.

We then welcomed the social superstar Natalie Anne , who presented an incredible session talking about ambassador roles and how to find the rights products and companies to partner with and the ‘why’ behind those decision. Absolutely fabulous! Definitely went over time with Natalie as the team asked question after question just enjoying the company of such a powerhouse of information!

A quick walk down the road to Dinner at The Vault at Yarraville with a few cocktails finished of the day nicely!

CEO/Founder HOTSHOTS, Linda Woodhead

HAIRBIZ Editor, Louise May

Day 3 was another early start with UK hairdressing award winning royalty Hooker and Young (Gary and Michael) paying a visit via zoom. What an absolute treat for the team, who sat on the edge of their seats listening to this beautiful partnership talk about salon, shoot and personal life! Having literally just come from a team shoot their insights were heartfelt and a really special addition to the hosue this year!

Another new guest this year was Marie Uva , who shared with the team her incredible career path, how to work with business partners, successfully running a hugely busy salon and a sneak peak into her very long list of celebrity clientele! Wowza!!

Sponsor sessions were up next with a visit and presentaion by Amy Pisconeri , Goldwell , opening the teams eyes to a new colour world.

The very generous Lorna Evans arrived with literally a car boot full of gifts for the team offering advice on how to diversify and how she went for hairdresser to salon owner to manufacturing her own styling products.

Jelena Hanson and Sami from Amazing Hair arrived with the team’s extension prize packs, this year including more than usual with extra goodies, mannequins and hair to play with… what a fun time was had by all, with some hair on the head sof the team themselves!!! The session also included a chat all about the history of the company and what to look for when it comes to the world of hair.

The gorgeously cute Primrose Holland , who we met last year, from ghd arrived with Education Manager ANZ Hayley Pullyn to talk about the brand and having already received their prize packs from ghd, the team were not expecting the room quickly to turn into an Oprah TV set with them all being given more in the shape of a ghd duet styler. It was like Xmas! All enjoyed a play with this new gamechanger tool!

The day finished off with a revisit to the SWOT analysis results and Linda Woodhead taking the team through a Mindfulness and Warrior Session. Breaking through barriers literally with martial art board breaking was an emotion end to a huge day!

Back up the road, a short walk took the team to Pinot and Picasso to ‘paint, sip and socialise’ together, followed by a few drinks back at the house with a late night game of “Heads Up”, a taco supper and a slumber party with the team moving mattresses all into the same room for the final night!

Final day was check out and off to Excellent Edges for the teams Scissor Packs worth in excess of $5000 and some unique training by the boss man himself Pete Walstab Meeting the EE team, getting mind blown in the way these scissors hone the craft, playing arcade games, having a sumptuous lunch. Always a highlight for the team!

Special thanks goes to Louise May who ‘co-parented’ the team, spending a lot of time cooking, Jarred Stedman for all of his input, photography and videography skills, not to mention impromptu mentor sessions along the way, What absolute gems!

Roll on 2023!!!

“The Hotshots house was incredible to say the least! One of the most amazing and most invaluable experiences I’ve ever had in my career. We delved deep into diverse topics from every aspect of the industry. In particular the personal development aspect really opened my eyes and challenged me to think outside the box and break down any creative barriers. It has given me the tools to become a better person and an even better hair-dresser. I have walked away with unforgettable memories and built some lifelong bonds with the girls, Linda, Jared and Louise. I am truly grateful for this experience and I encourage everyone to strive to be a part of it too!“

Hayley Warner

Dario Cotroneo Session

Dee Parker Attwood

Jayne Wild and Gary Latham Session

Marie Uva

Pete Walstab, Excellent Edges

Excellent Edges Session

Excellent Edges Session

Lyndal Salmon

“Hotshots house has been such a massive career highlight for me! Professionally and per-sonally! I walked into the house not knowing what to expect and walked out of the house with such a profound unique experience, that has giving me exponential growth and deep connections with my Hotshots team members and the team at mocha. Words can’t de-scribe the Hotshots House, other than it’s absolutely amazing and I am so excited for the next team to have this experience because it is honestly life changing.”

Elle Coco

Before hotshots my only expectation walking in was to make connections with the other team members and that was exactly what happened We were given the biggest opportunity to meet some amazing hair icons and learnt so much from the sponsors and the different avenues there are in hair industry

Linda Lou and Jarred went above and beyond to make sure we all have the best time and I’m so thankful I have the opportunity to be apart of the team

Tia Wright

“The hot shots ouse was an incredible experience. It’s a safe environment that nurtured and challenged me to bring out the best in myself both personally and professionally. The team have such a whole picture approach to hairdressing making sure not only your skill set is at top of your game but you and your view on yourself is as well. The team make you feel so welcome and the rest of the hot shots team and I are now friends for life. I can’t express how much this experience has meant to me it is and was exactly I needed at this point in my career. I honestly can’t recommend this program enough it’s a life changing opportunity and I highly encourage anyone that’s thinking of applying to take that step.”

Louise Graham

Primrose Holland, ghd

Roland Semaarn

Lorna Evans Session

Jelena Hanson and Sami from Amazing Hair

Hooker and Young (Gary and Michael)

Natalie Anne Session

Team with Pete Walstab, Exclellent Edges

Richard Kavanagh Session

Goldwell and Team

Amazing Hair Session

Primrose Holland, Hayley Pullyn, ghd and team

Bringing Joy with

THE HAIR & BODY LAB 2.0

By Louise May

“I hated high school, and my parents got a little tired of me skipping when the school councillor suggested I take up a vocational training course in one of their many options on offer. At 15 my eyes lit up when I saw hairdressing was on offer and that very next week, I was attending a salon one day a week while still working towards my grades at school. I loved it! People were so glamorous, they left feeling so confident and so good about themselves all because of a simple hair appointment and I knew I wanted to be that person to bring that kind of love and joy to someone’s life.”

Carlie applied for an apprenticeship and got offered a position with the first salon she applied at. “My parents finally agreed to let me leave school to pursue a trade and 21 years later the joy I can bring others is the thing I Iove most about being in this industry and one of the biggest things I have built the foundation of my business upon.

WE CAUGHT UP WITH CARLIE BRIDLE, OWNER OF HAIR AND BODY LAB IN ADELAIDE.

Was business ownership always a priority to you?

No, it never was. I first ventured into business with family many years ago.

Long story short, it didn’t work out. Whilst grateful for the opportunity I was too young and too inexperienced. I only knew how to do pretty hair. We look back and laugh now, but in hindsight it was a disaster waiting to happen.

Owing a business became a priority to me after I had my daughter 8 years ago. Working to someone else’s expectations full time and juggling a family is hard work. I wanted to make my own rules.

Can you tell us about your journey to date?

My business owner journey started 7 years ago. Up until then I was very fortunate to work in some amazing salons and alongside some incredible talent. The opportunities I had working for these salons really has shaped who I am as a hairdresser and boss today.

8 years ago, my daughter was sick from childcare again! It was so hard to constantly let an employer and your team down but also… it’s your baby… family comes first. While I sat and had coffee with one of my best friends. Danielle, she listened to me whinge and said why don’t you just work for yourself. I was petrified to make that step. What if I failed? What if I didn’t make enough money to support my family? What if clients didn’t like me?

From a young age, Carlie Bridle was certain that she was going to play with hair for a living. “It’s quite cliché but I used to play with my barbies hair, my own hair, my friends hair… anyone who was willing to let me give them a typical 5 year old crazy hair style,” she says.

However, in October 2016 I took the risk. My partner and I decided to turn the back room of our house which is a separate dwelling with its own access into The Hair and Body Lab. I had 2 stations, a basin, and a colour storage shelf with a bench… it was very basic.

I advertised on social media, used the community notice groups and available appointment groups to get my name out. My first month I had 6 clients, my second month I had 40 clients and come the end of my third month I had 87 clients.

I employed my first staff member in January 2017, 4 months after I opened. It just so happened to be Danielle; we still joke now that she had ulterior motives when she encouraged me to start a business.

We experienced 2 years of constant growth, expanded to 5 stations and a better looking, better functioning space. In 2019 I hired my next team member Michelle. This led to my neighbours making complaints about parking. March 2020, we had a visit from local council and an instruction from them that I either needed to move my business to a commercial premises by the end of the month or let go of 1 of my staff members and continue working from home but with only one hairdresser working at a time.

Whilst we had approval to operate a salon from our home premises having that many staff and working hours put me into the next category type of business that was allowed to operate from home within our local council and to get approval for that category would have cost a lot more than I was willing in to invest in a decision that was ultimately up to the same neighbours making complaints. It was time to spread our wings.

Seriously, who the hell did I think I was… at the start of a very uncertain pandemic telling my team that we are going big or going home… my gracious in-laws kindly lent us the money we needed to get it done as quickly as possible. One thing I am so grateful for is the fact that I have been surrounded by so much support on this journey and so many people believe in what I was building.

Don’t get me wrong, none of this up to this point has been easy, I’ve put my entire soul into being good at what I do, evolving, learning, and invested into an amazing business mentor whom after 5 years I still work closely with, trust and run to for advice frequently. But it was because of the tools that I have learnt through this I had the confidence to step into this next stage of my journey.

We found a commercial space not far from my home and were extremely lucky that between the 3 of us girls that all our husbands were handy trades and all 3 off them were on reduced hours due to Covid. So much blood (literally), sweat and tears from these men but they pulled off my vision in 17 days. While my girls continued working at home to ensure we had as smooth as possible transition for our clients.

Mother’s Day 2020 The Hair and Body Lab 2.0 was ready to go. We settled right in and were very fortunate to experience growth in a time that so many others were struggling, though through Covid it wasn’t easy I was definitely very lucky to be living in South Australia and didn’t have to experience lengthy lockdowns. With our first year at the new shop, we hired our next 2 employees Aimee and Jamie ,and I quickly realised that managing this many people was a whole new ball game. I’ve always strived to be the best boss I can be I like to think my girls would tell you that I’m flexible and fair, that I’m generous. Understanding and try and come from a place of love in every interaction. I had learnt a lot in my career how to treat people and how to not treat people and I vowed very early on that my staff will never experience some of situations that I faced as an employee.

My team is the most important aspect of my business to me, without them we don’t have what we’ve created. I’ve learnt a lot about people, personalities, how to have respectful hard conversations and how women in this industry can support one another instead of tear one another apart.

Growing a team has been a whole journey in its own right.

What has been your biggest challenge you have faced in business so far?

In 2021 we had grown our team to 10 and an opportunity presented to open a second location. Exciting times! The challenge presented when we finally opened the new location and split our team, what was meant to be an exciting venture created cracks in our systems and created a divide that I’ve never seen in my salon culture before. Within 3 months it took a serious toll on me and my team and I’m certain our clients would have felt it to.

The vibe we have worked so hard to create was gone. It took some very honest and not so easy conversations and a bucket load of accountability, but I knew the best thing to do was to sell it and bring my focus back to one salon and invest my energy into repairing

my team culture.

It wasn’t an easy thing to decide. I could have felt like a failure and felt embarrassed for selling after such a short time and for a moment I did have those feelings. But instead, I chose to ignore my inner critic and the things being spread by other industry peers about “my business failing” and instead be proud of myself for recognising what’s not working for me, my business, my team, or my clients.

I’ve handled it with integrity and honesty which are two of our core values in the salon, two values which have gone a long way in building relationships with our clients.

What would you say are the core values or philosophies which define your business brand?

Our team came together very early on and established our core values together… we did it this way because I want my team to come to the salon and work for what’s important to them not what I’m telling them in only important to me.

Passion, Kindness, Compassion, Integrity, Honesty, Teamwork, Respect, Accountability, Consistency and Shared Vision are our values.

I’m proud to say my team and I incorporate these values into every interaction with our clients. Throughout our circle of service our clients experience our stylists being authentic and striving to be the best they can be due to our values that they work towards daily. Our salon offers a safe space for women to come as they are, no judgment, just a place where they can come and feel loved and heard and leave feeling more confident and beautiful.

We have a very heavy emphasis on building relationships with our clients, after all it’s not just a hair appointment to most of them, it’s an energy exchange, a place they can let go of their daily stresses for a while, time spent with someone they trust to make them feel a bit better than they did before they came in. We are very fortunate to be able to bring joy to someone’s life this way.

As for my philosophy… Kindness goes a long way.

No matter how good you are at your job you cannot please everybody 100% of the time. I’ve always held such a welcoming and safe space for our clients to express how they feel. If they are not 100% happy with their service they are always met with kindness, understanding and compassion. I’ve been able to retain many clients who may not have

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always been 100% satisfied on their first visit purely from the way we choose to interact with them.

My team is well trained to let go of any ego and to really tune in and listen to their client’s needs.

Share with us your philosophies around staff selection and development. You can teach skill, but you can’t teach a personality. I’ve always selected my team members based on how well I think they will gel with the team and how naturally they will build relationships with their co-workers and our clientele. For the most part that has served me pretty well.

Finding staff in our current climate I’m sure any salon owner would agree Is difficult right now. I do believe the best way at the moment is to grow your own…hire the babies and teach them your way. Treat them so well they don’t ever want to leave and appreciate them for what they bring to your business.

My team are offered a flexible roster, weekends off, above award wages, incentive programs, and access to extensive education. They are often showered with praise and whatever else I can offer them to show my appreciation and love for them.

We invest a lot of time into the growth of our team. We offer brand education, regular in salon education, guest artists in salon and a consistent apprentice training program. We have levels of growth, junior stylist, emerging styling and senior stylist and each level has certain benchmarks they must hit in order to move onto the next level.

We have a detailed induction program to ensure expectations are clear and form the start and allows for open communication from day one.

How do you develop your team to help them be the best they can be?

With regular one on one development meetings, weekly team meetings and daily morning huddles.

We keep open communication with each member of our team, my manager Aimee and I are always available to answer any questions and provide guidance on a daily basis.

Our one-on-one development meetings are usually a 30/40 minute catch up where we start with a check in, both professionally and personally, we talk mental health, issues that need addressing and we celebrate wins no

matter how big or small... We set goals and establish plans on how we can achieve them by breaking team into small achievable steps. And we hold them accountable for these goals with regular check ins.

Our weekly team meetings are a 30 minute catch up on a Monday morning where we communicate all things happening in the salon that week. Any changes they need to be aware of, we assess and reflect on our financial goals and celebrate any wins our team or individuals have had. Some weeks when we don’t have a lot to get through, we use this as a little team bonding time.

What’s your advice to others who aspire to build an impactful brand?

Establish your values and live authentically by them. Trust your vision, get very clear on who your ideal client is and market to them as they will become your bread and butter. Invest in high quality branding and make sure everything looks professional and cohesive. Invest in a business mentor or coach or even group coaching. Learn from others, our industry peers are a wealth of knowledge and it’s not always the big guys. Support local small businesses whose values align with yours and build a network of support. And lastly make sure your marketing shows who you are. Clients want to connect with people not just pretty pictures of hair. Bring your sparkle and let your audience know who you are.

What has been your greatest lesson or piece of advice along your business journey?

Two things I’ve learned that I think everyone should know is…

Make sure you slow down to appreciate your success.

Running a business is a 24/7 job no matter how big or small your salon is. Sometimes it’s easy to consume yourself in all the things that need to be done that you forget to nurture yourself. You have incredible strength and drive to be handle this gig… make your take time to celebrate yourself for that. Make time each week for reflection.

And secondly, Know your numbers. You should know what it costs to run your salon per week, per day, per hour, per minute. It makes it very easy to establish your financial goals, ability to spend on stock, when to implement a price increase, what areas to invest into your business etc.

If you don’t know this information already, I encourage you to make this a priority asap. “A goal without a plan is just a dream”.

What’s on the agenda for the future. Integrating energy healing practices in our services and salon space. Working on healing my own energy has made me stronger and more confident and capable of loving myself for exactly who I am. I would love to be able to share this with my clients, my peers, and my team by offering techniques that I am capable of doing myself as well as collaborating with other like-minded practitioners.

Education for salon owners and apprentices. I believe every employee and apprentice has the right to come to work and be appreciated and praised for their efforts, these days paying their wages is not enough. So many salons are doing amazing things in this area, but it makes me sad to hear how sometimes this is not the case and how poorly some people are treated and working in such negative environments. I would love to shine light on this by offering insight to how we have built a strong culture in our salon that my team and I are really proud of. One that clients comment on, and one that we are recognised in our industry for.

TOTAL COACHING ACADEMY

2023 Conference Hawaii, USA

By Linda Woodhead

Hosted by Julie Piantadosi , guest speakers included Jaye Edwards, Donna Mee and Dr. Anh Nguyen , A few guests panels and masterclass workshop with Julie – What an exceptional experience.

Coaches Kerrie Di Mattia, Carly Knowles, Daphne Savage and Daniela Boerma were also on hand to share their industry and business wisdom with eager delegates who were all looking for inspiration and guidance after a challenging few years.

After an onsite opening cocktail arrival with the theme of Sleepwear, there was nothing sleepy about this first night!

Day one saw the opening with Julie, sharing what to expect followed by a one by one introduction of each delegate telling their story and talking about what they all wanted to achieve from conference. Julie expertly and individually unpacked each of the attendees commentary to identify everyone’s ‘Why’ and ‘What’ and with a few tears and shared laughter, it was a great way to get to know everyone seeing what could be achieved over the next few days.

Our First Speaker was one of Australian’s leading plastic surgeon, humanitarian, educator and changer of lives Dr Anh Nguyen , whose private practice in Perth boasts a national and international client list. Dr Anh Nguyen offered unique insights into both the art and the science of plastic and reconstructive surgery showing how this Vietnamese-born mum-of-three witnesses the transformative power of plastic surgery to change not only bodies, but also confidence and self-esteem.

From rebuilding limbs injured in traumatic accidents, reconstructing faces after dog attacks and remedying congenital defects, to breast reductions and tummy tucks, Dr Anh is a rarity in the world of medicine, where around 85% of Australian plastic surgeons are male.

An on-call plastic surgeon and consultant at Fiona Stanley Hospital, where she also mentors the next generation of plastic surgeons, Dr Anh was introduced to the lifechanging potential of plastic surgery almost 20 years ago after watching craniofacial and congenital hand surgeries as a young resident at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.

She went on to complete a gruelling training programme at the hands of some of the nation’s finest plastic surgeons.

Growing up in the 80s and 90s as the eldest daughter of Vietnamese refugees, Dr Anh has completed her own transformative journey, from super-swot, tomboy and ‘ugly duckling’ to sought-after surgeon, speaker, educator, entrepreneur and philanthropist - who is finally comfortable in her own skin.

This enlightening and inspiring session highlighted how plastic surgery is just one way to feel good about yourself with a strong message to be of value to yourself always.

Next up was Donna Mee , flying in for the USA, a 40 year-veteran Makeup Artist, Educator and Beauty Entrepreneur. After honing her skills working in catwalk, print and television, she now specializes in beauty makeup for print and giving international educational tours. She is known for developing extremely

advanced techniques and application skills known as ‘The Donna Mee Makeup Methods.’ She is considered the number one artist in corrective beauty makeup and one of the top beauty educators in the world. Donna is often referred to as the Beauty Prodigy due to her self-discovered methods and her extreme passion for generating successful artists through her training.

Donna is also responsible for discovering Make Up For Ever and bringing them to the United States which led to their abundant growth before being bought by Louis Vuitton/ Moet Hennessy which also owns Sephora. She opened her makeup studio in 1995 followed by a makeup artist agency and a makeup brush line in in 1996, and launched her Academy in 1997 which had the highest success rate percentage of working graduates than any other makeup school in the USA through 2014. In 2014, MEE INC Industry Workshops was launched to bring Donna’s intensive training into 3-10 day workshops for those not able to spend five months at a time pursuing education.

With her commanding presence and her ability to articulate complex science and theory in a way that is easily understood, Donna has a gift for painting a picture with her words, analogies and stories in which she delivers with conviction and humour.

Interestingly enough she also spoke about her incredible sales ability, how important it is to always listen, not allowing our brains to rush ahead and always listening to clients, letting them be heard resulting in success.

Looking at the perceptions of selling and what staff could be fearful of, her 3 key tips

At the Hilton, Embassy Suites in Honolulu, Hawaii, 40 people joined together for a 4 day conference to unpack, reset and refocus. Mocha joined the group as media partner to bring this special report.

to sales mastery were:-

1. Increase services to clients

2. Maximise product sales and serves for each client

3. Bring in new clientele & repeat

After a full day attendees retired for Hawaiian theme night all walking to the famous Cheesecake Cake Factory for a delicious dinner and cocktails!

Next day was Free Day for delegates to sample the delights of HAWAII including trips to Peral Harbour for some, island tours, relaxing by the beach and some R&R.

The following day and we were back in the conference room, kicked off with a very personal intro again from Julie talking about the importance of mental health gleaning knowledge from her own family and personal experiences. Once again showing why she has an innate ability to relate to everyone she cross paths with when it comes to the industry and her coaching clients.

Guest Speaker of the day was Jaye Edwards , 33 years young, owner of 9 EdwardsAndCo salons and a social following of 80,000!

EdwardsAndCo is Australia’s leading Hair Agency, housing a mix of the country’s most innovative and forward-thinking hair

colourists and stylists. Pioneering the movement is Jaye Edwards, known for his golden blondes and seamless blends, he brings a modern and new-age energy to the industry also leading the Education Team, made up of well-accomplished colourists, stylists and barbers, offering a wealth of knowledge and bringing a creative flair to each and every class.

On his own admission Jaye has never really been very good at following rules, or doing what was expected of him, hence his trailblazer nature when it comes to his salons, staff and business.

Jaye was totally candid in his session and was happy to share with the group who were all eagher to ask in depth questions about how he runs his business

He talked about his biggest challenge being how to balance personal and professional life, his health (both physical and mental) and was arefreshingly open book.

He spoke about contracts, work hours, leave structure, commissions, benefits and suppor; his link with the superbrand Mecca as well as the structured hierarchy in his salons. Team culture was high on the list and his end goal of financial freedom for himself and his staff

After lunch it was back with Julie Piantadosi workshopping a success wheel for all, unpacking levels of happiness, self-love, finance and more.

Sam Oraya was next up who took us on a meditation journey, speaking about mental health and exercises to do being a beautiful break and time to reset after a jam packed day.

Back to Julie for our final session and it was all about values looking at negotiables and non-negotiables in both personal and work life. Personal Resilience was the name of the game and being 100% accountable.

The day finished off with a panel of 3 young managers talking about kicking goals as well as wanting to do well for their employers; feeling gratitude for where they are. Fantastic attitude showing not all people are made to be salon owners, and then a Q&A with Agatha Villano owner of Epic Hair talking about exit plans and her absolute and complete love for her business.

Final night was a Beach Party…. What can I say…. better leave that there!

Until next time Mahalo!

AN EVER WORLDChanging

By Megan Evans

Some of you may remember me as Megan Panozzo. And you may have known me as a woman married to a man. I was married/partnered to a man for 25 years. Like all relationships there were good times, bad times and plenty of times that evoked grief and joy and everything in between.

I bet you’re wondering why you’re reading about my last name change.

Obviously, I must have divorced my husband. Who cares that happens daily!

I did divorce my husband but the reason I divorced and changed my name is because I came out as a Lesbian.

People always ask me “When did you know?” That’s a hard question to answer, and as more and more women come out later in life it’s a question, we ask ourselves often, when we look back there are so many things that we didn’t fully realise were gay tendencies or same sex attraction.

I personally had “known” for a long time, but I also knew that deciding to live my life as a gay woman, would mean that I would be hurting others, and as an active people pleaser it’s in my nature to put other people’s feelings before my own.

Add to that, being the parent to a son who is autistic. His grasp of the ever-changing world around him was always at the forefront of my mind. Then, there was my family, especially my mum. I knew she wouldn’t take the news well and she didn’t.

I actually have an aunty Who is gay, so why would it be a big deal?... Visibility is important! and growing up her and her longterm partner were not out to my sister and I, we were made to believe they were friends living in the same house.

I never saw any affection between them, and my family never spoke of an intimate relationship between them. My mum told me they were gay When I was 15. It makes me sad that my family accepted her partner, but not their relationship. Once I found out, it Seemed like it was a shameful secret. My mum would throw comments around that told me she was homophobic, I’m sure if you met her, you wouldn’t think she was, but those microaggressions are heard loudly by those of us that don’t feel safe to come out.

It’s 2023 right, the World is a different place now than it was for my aunty and her partner, except for when it’s not and for a long time I didn’t feel safe to come out.

I had my son, and his village was my family. They love him and have supported him. My now ex-husband had a family system that he was a part of, that was tumultuous at best and would provide the support that he would need when I left.

So being gay was a secret I kept to myself, until I knew that the people around me, were my safety net, and everyone had the support they would need when I left. Also more importantly, my son was old enough to cope with the change to come, now that he is an adult.

Its 2023, and it’s devastating to know the two thirds of my LGBTIQA+ friends and chosen family don’t have their family support, in this

day and age where the internet tells us we’re either right or so wrong for being LGBTQIA+.

Since Coming out, I have had to end some relationships and I no longer have my biological family in my life.

The door is not closed, but my own mental safety now comes first. Coming out and learning more about myself has been equally the best and hardest thing I have ever done. There has been so much change, and growth too, I’m surrounded by incredible people who love me, nurture me, and inspire me.

Another thing people have said to me is, “But you’re So Authentic”, and I have been, I am always authentically me, at the present time. Now I got to be the authentic lesbian I wanted to be. I’ve surrounded myself with incredible people who love me and support me.

My clients have been some of my greatest cheerleaders and I am forever grateful to my team at ‘In Awe Salon’ for supporting me in my growth as a boss and their understanding in allowing me to grow into my identity. The love and respect they have shown me throughout my coming out journey. They have shown me that they know my authenticity encourages them to be the best version of themselves, and that we rise by lifting others, so they are on this glorious ride with me.

At the end of 2021 I visited Queensland briefly for a friend’s wedding. As newly single people do… I had an app on my phone, and when I went to my room after the wedding, I had a

quick look and noticed Claire. She was reading my favourite book and liked my favorite band, and we had lots of common interests. She had liked my profile (although she says I liked hers first! It’s not true). I was leaving the next day and messaged her about the book (Boy Swallows’ Universe, just so you know). I do love good book discussions!

After that we spoke daily then we Facetimed and before we knew it, we were doing all of our daily rituals together over Facetime, and after a couple of months we met in person.

We have been together ever since. The geography of our situation is Complex.

Claire is a phenomenal human and guardian to two of her now adult foster siblings who live with Complex disabilities, and I am now step-mum to an amazing Son Ethan who is still in high school and will be Prime Minister one day! So, when the realisation became apparent that we could no longer live apart, I needed to move to Queensland.

Now that I’m an out lesbian, why not really fit the stereotype and U-Haul all the way to Queensland! So, Bayleigh, my manager and I, put together a plan where she could run the Salon (because she is amazing), and Claire and I put our heads together to figure out how we could work together.

Claire has a law degree and has worked in Community Services for as long as I’ve been hairdressing. Now she is a Psychosocial Support Worker with a wealth of knowledge in social services and the disability sector. Together we are passionate about inclusivity and the link between LGBTQI, gender and neurodiverse people and supporting business to creating a safe space for people in the salon industry. Since Moving to Queensland and having time off the floor, I have had time to ponder my next move in the industry, so, In Awe Academy has been born!

I have created the apprentice training guide, I wish I had the time to create earlier, and wish I had this as an apprentice. It covers every single thing that I think is important to know as an apprentice, and a business owner, and encourages the apprentice to seek information, and own their training to have the career they want.

I have also created a selection of in-salon education that I can’t wait to share, from creating a working relationship with your manager, to fulfill all our needs to fast foiling techniques and inclusivity training.

Claire and I have created the template for a support business specifically for the hairdressing industry, to support salon owners and NDIS participants, to get into salons with the necessary support in place and utilise the NDIS to support people into the salon industry where they can flourish.

Our industry is desperate for people to work in our businesses and there are thousands of people living with all abilities that want to work.

Considering the Venn Diagram for people who are neuro diverse, LGBTIQA+ and creative, the hairdressing industry is the perfect space for inclusivity, and I am so proud to be a part of it!

So, as I continue to evolve and be authenticity me at the present moment, watch this space, I’ve just started to glow.

Thanks for reading.

Megan xxx

ALLIGATOR CREEK

By Rex A.C. Silver

Based in Mackay, North Queensland, Heath Paton is an awesome Barber loved by his clients and by his staff with 2 guys nudging 10 years’ service…each!! As well as being an incredible barber, he is an artist, a fashion designer, business manager and owner, a national educator for Wahl and I think I’ve seen him behind the turntables too!

There is a hell of a lot of layers to this guy living his best life in FNQ and why not? He has worked hard to get his 2-chair operation up to a whopping 9 chairs. It was great pleasure to meet and interview a creative who shopped himself around many artistic fields before focusing in on the one he feels… in his own words...is Home!

He picked a little from here and a little from there and put it all in a pot. What a clever way to go!!

This is Heath Paton’s journey:

Where did it all start Heath?

I grew up in rural north Queensland amongst the cane fields in a small community called Alligator Creek, set about 30 mins south of MacKay. Not exactly the stereotypical setting for someone with aspirations of leaving a footprint on the hair and fashion world… but to be fair my whole childhood I thought I was going to be a professional soccer player.

Soccer was the main focus for most of my youth, travelling all over Australia and internationally for many years. It’s so tough when your young deciding on what the bigger picture will be and it wasn’t till the age of 16 that I started realising I had quite a creative streak and gravitated towards the arts more.

I was still at high school when I started completing make up and cosmetology courses, [remember this was the 90’s in rural Queensland]. I knew that my passions in life went against the grain which made it quite challenging at times, so I hid most of those creative interests from the world so as not to face ridicule.

Painting and sculpture started to become a passion and gave me a greater sense of shape and dimension, ultimately aiding to the way I approach hair today looking back. My family were always so very supportive of whatever direction I would ultimately choose and have ridden the waves of an emerging artist along with me.

How and when did you discover hair and know this was your calling?

I remember the exact moment I wanted to dive into the hair industry. I stumbled into a hair show by accident tagging along with a friend completely last minute.

The moment I stepped into the room I was met with this overwhelming energy that was so inescapable. Bright lights and colours and loud electro music, but it was the energy, the passion, the vibe, it was the whole package that sealed it for me, I was home.

It was practically immediately after that that I embarked on my journey. My aunt opened the door for me working in the studio she was at.

“The reliability of WAHL Clippers has flowed through… inadvertently giving me a stronger ability throughout my cutting career, simply because of the confidence I have with them in my hand”.

Doing all the normal basin and tea and tidy work which eventually led to my hairdressing apprenticeship. It wasn’t long into my apprenticeship that I knew my passion would be for cutting, all those years of sculpture and painting really started to come in handy with understanding cutting structures.

By the 3rd year of my hairdressing apprenticeship all I wanted to do was cut hair, now mix this with the newly acquired interest for fashion and design that I had running through my veins…I was on a creative high… I used that inner drive and moved across to complete a barber apprenticeship focusing on traditional techniques and freehand clipper cutting.

I’m a firm believer that once you know all the rules then you can start to break them, so I really worked on breaking the mould of a stereotypical barber and started altering conventional design concepts and infusing my art via hair tattoos and trackwork. Even all those years ago now I remember the goal would ultimately be for me to get on the stage Infront of people and show my work, under the bright lights and loud music like the show from years before. I think moving forward with everything I aim to achieve in the industry I always try to recreate that energy, that infectious vibe. Whether its inside my studio or when I’m onstage lecturing or cutting Infront of audience I really aim for that entertainment factor. it’s that drive I feel keeps me pushing... that pursuit for more, that pursuit for perfection, not perfection itself; the pursuit, the journey for greater, is where the magic happens. that’s where the ideas and creativity are found.

Please tell us all about HPHFM, your team, your business ethos and philosophy towards customer service and the experience you guests receive at your shop.

I opened HPHFM back in 2012, with only 60 sq/m, two chairs and myself cutting. it got to a point where I needed to be in a space where I could be me, where I could not only showcase and promote my skills but also surround myself unapologetically with my influences and inspirations.

At the start of the journey the letters stood for “Heath Paton Hair For Men” as we thought we were a barbershop but if wasn’t long after we realised it was more than that. I remember opening my shop one day a young kid said to me, “Heath, your barbershop has a halfpipe skateboard ramp in it and a DJ booth and graffitied • cont’d over page

•

walls from floor to ceiling and so many hats and clothes for sale, why”? I just said. “‘cause I can.” which he replied, “I’m glad you did”. That was a huge thing for me.. I’ve invested so much of myself into HPHFM.. so much of my culture and influence and people get it…. Even the kid got! And so did my staff, 2 of my longest serving barbers and dear friends, Jordan Muscat and David Homewood understood what HPHFM was about and believed in the journey and have been alongside me for the last 10 years helping HPHFM become what it is today.

Later on, we changed the HFM to Hair, Fashion, Motivation which created the perfect segway for me to promote my fashion design again and the drive behind creating a label as opposed to just a barbershop.

Fast forward to 2023 and we’ve grown to 300sq/m and 9 chairs… the skate ramp has been swapped for a pool table but that same drive to create culture and community is ever present.

TOOL TALK

Clippers:

I’ve been using WAHL clippers my entire career…. that’s 20 something years now… the concepts behind freehand clipper cutting and clipper over comb techniques really captured my focus and as I evolved inside the industry so did the range of clippers which in turn helped me achieve new heights and break more boundaries. The reliability of WAHL Clippers has flowed through… inadvertently giving me a stronger ability throughout my cutting career….. simply because of the confidence I have with them in my hand, and they have always been my staple tool set, so, you can begin to imagine how big of a deal it was when I was invited to become an ambassador and educator for WAHL.

All those years of dedication and loyalty finally paid off. I actually have and use every WAHL clipper that’s on the Australian market in my toolkit. On the daily you’ll see me with the cordless Magic Clip, Super Taper, and the Legend but my favourite go- to’s at the moment are the cordless Legends, but if I’m completely honest I utilise every clipper dependent of hair type and desired outcome.

Scissors:

I’m terrible with scissors I dance around with a few different brands and my main need is size, I use a 6/ 6.5 inch. I do up to 30 clients a day, so I struggle to find a pair that stays sharp long enough. I’m yet to fall in love with a brand or style.

What haircare and styling products do you choose to use and onsell to your customers.

I use a lot of uppercut deluxe products. pretty much all of them but my favourites are the matte pomade and clay. I think what drew me toward the brand at first was the culture and look, but now I understand each product and what they individually achieve for styling purposes I love the range, it has every base covered and I love the relationship I have the team. Instore, also, we have the King Brown range and I’m a huge fan of the original pomade. firstly, the scent is a killer, but the hold does wonders for a slick back look. if you aren’t familiar with it go check it out, ask for it by name.

When did you first get to educate and what does it mean to you to share your passion and knowledge with others?

Education and giving back has always been paramount for me. I think growing up in a rural scene where education in hair was limited, powered my drive to share my knowledge. after training some apprentices instore I shifted my focus to the broader community conducting look and learns up and down the coast. Perhaps it was the memory of the struggle starting out when I was young or the passion for sharing the industry to future artists that kept me wanting to be on that stage which in turn granted me the opportunity to become an educator for WAHL. I’ve been blessed to meet and work alongside some of the most creative artists in the industry. Being a part of the WAHL bootcamp was such an amazing experience and something I will never forget, and I really want to give thanks to the rest of my team, Rob Szincsak, Ben Kane, Jaymes Lunn, Yuki kano, Sarah Wall, Celine Kaponias, Mark Rabone, Anthony Nafatali. To be a part of such a talented and supportive team is such a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

The whole mindset change was an evolution in itself, learning to think global not local and only made possible thanks to Mr Simon Shaw and Amanda Callaway. understanding just how far I’d come from that

rural country boy who stumbled into a hair show and now I’m on main stage launching the WAHL cordless legend to the nation at barber temple. The support I’ve received from the industry has been overwhelming and surreal.

From pep talks from Fraser Forsey before jumping on stage, being on the barbersarms podcast, Stephanie Polansky flying halfway around the world to pass on her knowledge, my industry peers have now become family. so much is happening now and I’m so truly grateful. For me personally, becoming an educator for WAHL has to be not only my biggest industry accomplishment but an achievement I’ve always wanted and certainly aimed for, and I am beyond excited for what the future brings. not just for me, but for everyone who has been a part of the journey. All my clients past and present who have watched the evolution and scene the hard yards and sacrifices made. Getting on stage now I get to carry all those who believed in me on my shoulders and that is such a reward in itself.

You are in regional Qld. Tell us how being on the national stage and being recognised as being a leader in our industry on a national level has helped build your business in Mackay.

I think the local front will always be a source of inspiration for me. I never forget where I come from and now walking down the street and the kids recognise who I am and want to know my next move keeps me grounded but driven. I’m always moving forward, and I feel a certain purpose out of people wanting to know what’s next on the horizon. And of course, I’m always busy aiming for more so there’s plenty to report. we’re currently on the hunt for new apprentices now in Mackay and are working on a few new concepts moving forward. I recently started a podcast on YouTube and we’re recording weekly to grow our audience at present. Also working in with a lot of local youth organisations and first nations projects reaching out to the next generation to offer guidance and mentor type opportunities. I think with any type of success comes responsibility. for me I see a responsibility to my family, friends, and community, and if I can give them any bits of guidance or advice that they can use to propel themselves forward, that is such a reward. And finally, EDUCATION. I’m getting out into the far north Queensland communities with a lot more education so if anybody in North Queensland wants me to stop in and pass on some knowledge keep a look out because I’ll be coming to a town near you.

HAYLEY WARNER

Hayley Warner’s hairdressing journey started 13 years ago where, if she’s honest, wasn’t at the top of her list of career choices. Her passion grew after a long 5-year apprenticeship and after another 2 years of finding her feet in the industry.

Hayley started working at Oscar Oscar Salons. Since then, she has ventured far beyond where she could have ever imagined, doing things she didn’t even know she would love, by stepping outside of her comfort zone and finding her passion. Hayley has been a trainer in-salon for the last 7 years, which also led her to the Oscar Oscar Academy where she had the pleasure of training their entire apprenticeship team in QLD alongside other educators in the company and Education leader Adam Mcintosh!

Hayley won a trip to Las Vegas for the Redken Symposium, assisted Jacky Chan on his photoshoot, co-hosted a colour course for her OO Qld team and now she is a Salon Partner at her Carindale Salon with expansion happening in the near future to Manly, Brisbane!

Hair Biz Editor Louise May chats with Hayley about her journey, being a Hot Shot winner and future plans, and threw in a few fun questions to finish!

What made you want to be a hairdresser?

My passion grew over time for this industry, so my response to this question is based around what made me stay as a hairdresser. It started as making people happy, achieving results for them that they didn’t think possible. The wow factor when they see their hair for the first time. This feeling is unmatched, however, for me, it wasn’t enough. Looking outside the dayto-day salon culture, I started paying attention to other ways I could be inspired, and this led

me to picking up magazines and being in awe of editorials, magazines and competitions and thinking I wanted to do that too! I am a hugely competitive person so to strive for wins inside the salon with incentives, delivering guest expectations and entering national competitions has 100% kept me inspired and driven both personally and professionally.

What kind of hair work is your favourite and why?

Colour!! More specifically, lived in blondes, Brondes, balayage. Beautiful Seamless colouring. I also love a challenge and so working with different techniques and sectioning patterns helps add to the interest of doing it. Most recently however, working on photoshoots with wigs and extensions has been a super fun and new experience that I’m excited to keep delving into! The people and different talents you meet in this side of the industry is truly incredible.

How do you manage life and work balance?

Ha-ha, The best I can!!! I have always lived a fast-paced lifestyle, so I am used to constantly being on the ‘go’. I forget things really easily, so I need to write everything down and have a bit of a schedule. Prioritising most things in a realistic order and keeping focused on what I want to get out of each and every day, but then also not being too hard on myself if I don’t complete something by a time frame and just adding it to the top of the list for another day.

Who inspires you in the creative field of hairdressing and why?

I am inspired by so many creative hairdressers, but I think the standouts for me are Natalie Anne, she has created an amazing brand and you can always tell when you see a picture that’s hers floating around social media. Her work is fashion forward and polished and she’s a successful businesswoman! Many things I aspire to accomplish in my career. Kobe Bokshish, because I was blown away by how he took over online education during Covid and strived to keep hairdressers and young apprentices motivated! Paul Graham, I am obsessed with his 2021 Avant garde collection, and it has made me want to upskill my editorial game. Lastly, Chris Appleton, because who wouldn’t want to be surrounded by some queens such as J-Lo and Kim K.

If you could spend a day with anyone from a business or lifestyle mentorship perspective, who would it be and why?

Omg there’s so many! Oprah Winfrey, Steven Bartlett, Lisa Nichols, Grant Cardone, Brené brown. Each of them offer valuable insight and advice on achieving success and reaching personal and professional goals. The qualities they possess as a collective would be incredibly inspiring and motivational towards becoming not only an amazing leader and successful businesswoman but also, living life with purpose and intention! To hang out with them for a day would be a dream!

How important are competitions and awards to you?

Awards and competitions are important to me because they

FUN SNAPSHOT:

give me an opportunity to showcase my skills and talents in the most artistic and creative way. Stepping outside my comfort zone from commercial and the daily ‘norm’ hair. It’s incredible to see how fashion and hair come together to create these insane looks that you just think “how did they do that!?” Or “what made them think to do that, or put that there, or use that material?” I am really only just scratching the surface to this side of the industry and now it has opened this door for me being on the hotshots team, I am so honoured to be a part of it. This is only the beginning!

Can you tell us a little about what you are most looking forward to being a member of the Hot Shots team?

To be honest, I had no expectations of what I would get out of this opportunity, but from already connecting with the girls and chatting to Linda and Louise about what’s to come I am just super excited and grateful to have been given this opportunity. I’m going to absorb every bit of learning that I can, I’m looking forward to building lifelong relationships with my fellow team members and connecting with some of the greatest artists in the industry.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

Growing our team and expanding our salon network to more locations is at the top of my list of things I want to achieve. Along the way, I’d like to win a few more awards but see fellow team members up for more awards and taking them out as well. My career is no longer just about me! I love teaching so I want to continue to educate and share everything I’ve learnt and things I am learning along the way! I am super passionate about travelling, so having structured classes I can travel with would be a dream come true, in all aspects of business and hair!

Worst fashion moment One of the girls at work had a fun hens party at holey moley where we had to dress up at golfers. My outfit was from lifeline and did not look “cute”

Worst Hair day Freshly washed hair Fave Destination Las Vegas!! Fave Drink Seltzers or fruity cocktails

If you weren’t a hairdresser, you would be a… An actress or a makeup artist!

EQUANIMITY BY TRACEY HUGHES

AN EXPRESSIVE DEMEANOUR and defined characters portray a spiritually impressive ambience

A TONAL CUSTOMISATION curates a purity of the hair colour spectrum inspired by delicate contrast and an aura of pastel hues

A TONAL CUSTOMISATION curates a purity of the hair colour spectrum inspired by delicate contrast and an aura of pastel hues

POLISHED SKILLS

Justine Wolfe has been working in the hair industry for over 20 years. While the COVID19 global pandemic saw much change in many industries, for Justine there was an opportunity to expand and provide high quality education through her Polished Skills courses. In a short time, Justine has built a reputation for engaging education building styling confidence.

In 2023, Justine is again partnering with Milk_shake Melbourne as part of a broader education calendar.

We caught up with Justine to find out what drives her and what’s next for 2023 and beyond.

What drives your passions for the industry and vision for Education?

I love this industry. It is home to me and the people in it are my family. Hairstylists are another breed, and I couldn’t be prouder to call myself one. Confidence is my “why”. What I mean by this is your follower count, earnings for the year, number of people who booked your services, or came to your education are one thing... however important, none of these no matter how great will keep me getting out of bed at 3am to style brides’ week after week, year after year. What keeps me doing this is making a difference in people’s lives. If I can give a bride the confidence to get down that aisle knowing she is the best version of herself or give a stylist the confidence and tools to create textured styles without fear my fire is lit ongoing. This is my passion and absolutely why I continue doing what I do.

Tell us a little about your experience and career highlights to date.

I started working in a salon after I did work experience in Year 9 (before VCAL) and they offered me a job. I was always creative growing up and loved the idea of serving others and giving a great experience to be enjoyed. I knew I either wanted to be a chef or hairdresser but struggled to decide which. With this work experience – I worked a week in a kitchen and a week in a salon. Both employers offered me a job afterwards. My heart was with the salon.

I worked in the salon for a couple of years while still at school then finally became a full-time apprentice. My family were shocked that this non studious girl smashed out hairdressing school and completed in 16 months instead of 4 years.

From there I went on to work behind the chair in salons, then managerial roles for the following 10 years before completing my training and assessment qualification. I always loved educating. Passing on confidence to others in their craft gives me life. The next few years I worked in education for brands before getting married and having two children. During this time, I started my own business Polished Style working with the convenience of my schedule offering hairdressing appointments to regular clients. After taking time off with my second child I knew I wanted more. I didn’t want to be in my house for both work and home life anymore and wanted to go for that business I’d always dreamed of. I didn’t know where to start, so I decided to update my training qualification and got a job at the hair school I had attended 20 years prior.

Although I loved the education component – I missed getting creative. I started a bridal business on the side on weekends. This has always been a dream of mine but as my husband works Saturdays, I never thought it would be a possibility. I worked out a way and decided to go for it. As I never thought this would be on the cards for me, I decided to go all in and give it all I had, whilst quietly wondering if anyone would actually book with me. They did. I remember my first enquiry vividly – I couldn’t believe it. I called my husband at work to let him know. As the days rolled by the bookings snowballed until I had to let go of my academy role. I was sad, I loved that job. The relationships I still treasure to this day, but I knew I couldn’t keep it up whilst also running my own business. Then the COVID Pandemic and lockdown happened. Pretty much as soon as I went out on my own. I kept posting my work and the hairstyling ideas on social media. Crazily to me, I was having other stylists contact me in the hope for me to teach them my styles, my marketing and how I go about creating and editing content for Instagram. I was shocked as I had promised myself no more fingers in too many pies and to stay in my lane moving forward with aiming to book just 1 wedding a week. Session after session I taught tailor making the content to the learner, and I couldn’t help but notice a theme of similar questions being asked, similar challenges for the participant, similar curiosities about behind the scenes in my business, so much so that I decided to have all of the answers professionally filmed into a variety of online courses to have this content more accessible and readily available to those who need it.

What can stylists expect from your education programs?

My programs online and in person are geared to what freelance hairstylists in our industry need to know to become successful with hairstyling and in business but are also loved by hairdressers in salon, makeup artists and hair novices to gain confidence with creating hairstyles that are comfortable to wear and last easily. My

programs are designed to strip back all the fluff and underwhelm participants, so they have an actionable proven plan to follow and achieve results.

I teach a unique methodology called ‘5 Steps to Textured Styling’ which has become popular as it is a super simplified and step by step way of creating beautiful hairstyles every time that don’t look over pinned or over sprayed and without us stylists getting lost in the process. I also offer programs that highlight how to streamline the backend of your business, create and edit content, build your brand, and market to attract your ideal clients.

This year I will be offering in person and online options with hands on workshops in partnership with Milk_shake Mellbourne, look and learn masterclasses, my online program Polished Skills and new bite sized classes online.

What’s your focus and goals for 2023 and beyond?

Due to the incredible feedback so far, I am truly focusing on equipping more hairstylists with my simple 5 step styling plan and business material. I read the reviews and know it’s worth the intense effort to put it on for the participants. In 2023, due to demand I plan to take this in person education to more cities in Australia including Hair Festival in June.

I am also fortunate enough to be invited back to work with some of my favourite brands like Milk_ shake with hands on in person masterclasses. I am absolutely grateful for the relationship and opportunity to work with the Milk_shake team for my third year running, their salon support system and product offering are second to none – the studio feels like home to me.

I will be still servicing my bridal parties as usual, although less than before due to a family priority shift but I feel that it’s important to keep my finger on the pulse with real styling when teaching it.

For more information or to contact Justine, please visit polishedstyle.com.au or @polishedstylejustine on Instagram

I LOVE THIS INDUSTRY. IT IS HOME TO ME AND THE PEOPLE IN IT ARE MY FAMILY JUSTINE WOLFE

How to (actually) treat hair loss!

By Dr. Guanchen Sun

Approximately 49% of women will be affected by hair loss throughout their lives, with female pattern hair loss (FPHL) being the most common cause of female alopecia. In men, significant balding affects one in five in their 20s, one in three men in their 30s and nearly half of men aged in their 40s and Australia has been declared to have the highest percentage of balding men in the world!

It is no doubt that we have seen the market grow with an overwhelming number of products promising the same thing, but consumers are more curious than ever especially when it comes to what we digest.

Doctor Guanchen Sun , Research & Development Director at Biogency explains: “The market is continuing to rapidly expand with a greater focus on organic, natural and Australian made products. Consumers are more aware and alert than ever, especially amongst supplements and vitamins which is why we created Piliant.” The hair care market is expected to grow to $1.44 billion this year but understanding what causes hair loss is the first step when determining what products will help us achieve the results, we’re after.

What causes hair loss?

Hair loss is part of the normal ageing process but also comes in many forms for both males and females. Things such as hormonal changes, medical conditions, heredity, poor hair care, stress and childbirth can all onset the process of hair loss and how we treat each varies depending on the severity. In men specifically, hair loss is more common.

Do you know about the UV dangers to the scalp?

UV light produces a lot of reactive oxygen species which not only damage the grown hair, but also the hair follicles on the scalp. Wearing protective gear like a hat can offer some protection but UV lights still have the chance of penetrating through. Seeing as our UV is so high especially in Summer this can have detrimental effects on the quality of our hair (texture/colour) as well as hair loss. Australia experiences some of the highest UV in the world being so close to the equator and coupled with clearer skies, the comparison is quite vast: in summer the UK has UV Index 6–8, while Australia has UV Index 10–14. With that said, the strong climate is definitely a factor that increases hair loss in Australia solely due to the UV light.

Dr. Sun’s top three recommendations:

1. Include a supplement specifically formulated for hair health into your

daily routine for the body to absorb the nutrients it might not be receiving from foods

2. Consume foods high in protein, rich oils and antioxidants like nuts, eggs and blueberries

3. Limit direct UV exposure from the sun to the scalp, wear a hat/SPF when out

Can hair supplements help?

Hair supplements aid the process of restoring and strengthening hair and can largely help to achieve your hair health goals. They are great for individuals who lack or are low in a certain vitamin/level and can work harmoniously in conjunction with a balanced diet and consistent hair care. As everyone has different hair goals, types and experiences - results will depend solely on the individual and their upkeep as each supplement plays a different role. It is also important to take note of the specific ingredients in supplements, I recommend Piliant to those who want to see an overall improvement in their hair type, texture and health. Containing not one

but 5 essential nutrients for hair health, Piliant is formulated with Vitamin A, B and C as well as iron and zinc to recover hair damage, increase coverage, and maintain overall hair health.

What sorts of foods should we be eating to prevent hair loss?

Our diet plays a large role in the maintenance of healthy hair, where protein and rich oils like nuts and seeds should be consumed in conjunction with effective supplements to treat both hair loss and growth. It is recommended to consume foods rich in unsaturated fatty acids such as fish and nuts. Sufficient protein is also important for maintaining hair volume: eggs, seafood and lean meat are good choices and green vegetables and fruits high in antioxidants can help also fight reactive oxygen species to protect hair. We should avoid highly processed food and keep foods with high sugar or unhealthy fats (i.e., deep fried food) in moderation. One supplement cannot undo poor health nor restore hair to its original condition, however more so supplements should be taken in conjunction with a healthy diet, regular exercise, sufficient water intake and a strong hair care routine to follow.

TRADITIONAL CREAM HAIR COLOR ELEVATED THROUGH MODERN CHEMISTRY AND ECO -ALCHEMY.

LK is a comprehensive, extensive line of innovative formulas enhanced with our patented Oil Protection Complex, Phyto -Enhancer and Ceramide A2 for radiant, hydrated and nourished hair, post-application and beyond the chair Blended with Organic, cold-pressed argan and passion flower oils, this low ammonia luxury line features 106 hues, easy mix ratios in volumes 10 to 40, and superior coverage on even the most color resistant and grey hair

WHAT IS THE AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSING COUNCIL?

We speak to CEO Sandy Chong…

The Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) is a member organisation whose sole purpose is for the betterment of the industry across a wide spectrum of objectives.

- We work on uplifting our industry’s reputation, image and credibility.

- We support, inform and connect our community around Australia.

- Representing our Industry to the Government and the media is one of our key drivers.

- We advocate for businesses, education and training.

WHO REPRESENTS OUR HAIRDRESSING INDUSTRY?

Creating the AHC has not happened overnight! In fact, it has taken 12 years for the Australian Hairdressing Council to build an extensive network and reputation as the trusted representative for the industry. We continually survey the industry, hold Think Tanks and events to listen, consult and collaborate. We discuss the needs of small business, education and training, and all that affects our Industry.

HOW DOES THE AHC SPEAK ON BEHALF OF OUR HAIRDRESSING INDUSTRY?

The AHC represents both Hairdressing and Barbering when we lobby or advocate. This includes active consultation, roundtable meetings and Industry specific submissions to the Government, their departments, regulators like the FWO and ATO, politicians and bureaucrats.

GIVE ME AN EXAMPLE!

In 2019, Home Affairs announced Hairdressing and Barbering would be taken off the Skills Migration List. The AHC has continually lobbied against this to maintain our position to be able to sponsor overseas barbers and hairdressers. This meant countless submissions and meetings with Ministers and Senators, the Department of Home Affairs, Department of Employment,

Department of Education, the Senate, the Skills Commission, roundtable meetings and even the media. We’ve invested a lot of time (and money) to protect both hairdressing and barber industries.

BUT IF I JOIN THE AHC, WHATS IN IT FOR ME?

What’s in it for you? The AHC understands the challenges that all small businesses experience. As hairdressers and barbers, we may be great at our craft, but few of us wear ALL the “hats” that we are expected to wear as the owner of a business. Employment law is confusing, yet the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) maintains you should know everything. Exploitation of staff and wage theft is on the agenda of the FWO. Renting a chair? Be sure to have a contract, otherwise the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and FWO may decide your contractor is an employee… And the fines are substantial.

I CAN’T GET STAFF. WHAT’S THE AHC DOING ABOUT THIS?

The AHC launched HeadHunter Recruitment Australia to help the hairdressing, barber and beauty industry find staff. AHC members get a $100 discount on all packages. The platform we use is AI driven to find applicants across many recruitment boards and will target your ads at candidates, wherever they may be when online.

WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH APPRENTICESHIPS?

Hairdressing Apprenticeship numbers are up. But concerns are why 63% of hairdressing apprentices don’t get past the first year. Why is this? Some may have chosen the wrong industry and have different expectations; however, most say it’s HOW they have been treated. Apprentices are NOT cleaners. The whole team should contribute to the cleaning of the salon, and also contribute to teaching an apprentice from day one. Expectations must be clear for the apprentice, salon owner and the entire team. And on the subject of TEAM… everyone is responsible in

supporting a new apprentice with their career of choice, helping them to become capable and confident. Apprentices are the future of your business, so it’s worth investing your time, money and energy for the future sustainability of your salon and the industry.

SO, WHAT’S A MEMBERSHIP WORTH?

What is it worth to any business owner to feel assured that they have access to unlimited HR advice, business resources, be included in a likeminded network and community to answer questions and give support, plus know there is an experienced organisation that has the interests of small business at heart when speaking to the Government? How much would it cost to engage advice outside of the AHC?

OK, BUT WHAT’S IT REALLY GOING TO COST ME?

Membership fees are tax deductable! You can pay monthly or save $$ and pay annually. Sole traders’ fees are $416 paid annually or $39 paid monthly.

Businesses with staff pay $1029 annually or $95 monthly.

HOW DO I JOIN?

Simply via the website https://www.theahc. org.au/memberships

WHAT ELSE DO I GET?

The AHC has several member benefits and support. Our Associate Member network covers education, insurance, leasing advice, how to buy or sell your business, accountants, software, payment platforms, advertising and marketing, business coaching, salon design, suppliers, and also support on mental health, including suicide intervention and prevention, understanding domestic violence, supporting charitable community events such as Short Back and Sidewalks and Hair Aid. Our industries love to help the homeless in our community.

I WANT MORE…

Business podcasts and short videos on

business tips, advice and information. An active social media community, timely informative eDMs, our annual Leadership Summit, collaborating on the best training for our industry, and so much more. And then there’s SCHMOOZFEST, the AHC’s hugely popular networking event in June - which is exactly that - schmoozing with food and drinks!

WHAT ABOUT QUALIFICATIONS? WHAT ARE YOU DOING ABOUT THIS?

Only in NSW and SA is it mandated that a Barber or Hairdresser must have a qualification to do hair for money! How do you feel about this?

The AHC understands the existing Apprenticeship system and Training Package (what they learn at college) does not suit today’s Hairdressing and Barber Industry. Students/apprentices and even employers become demotivated by what they are expected to learn and teach, when they just

want to do hair that suits their salon brand. There are some amazing, skilled hairdressers and barbers in our industry - should they have a qualification?

The AHC regularly meets with all stakeholders to collaborate and consult on what’s the best learning experience for our apprentices. The outcome is the industry wants skilled, confident, productive and capable hairdressers and barbers. So, what is the best way forward? Let’s talk together and become a part of this important conversation.

WHY HAVE A QUALIFICATION?

This is one way that every individual hairdresser and barber and business owner can uplift the industry’s reputation. The AWARD shows a pay rate for a qualified Hairdresser or Barber. We all never imagine and hope that anything will go wrong in our businesses, but consumer complaints and claims are increasing.

Cut like a Master-Class

TO BECOME A WORLD-CLASS STYLIST, YOU NEED WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION. Join multi-award-winning hairdresser and precision cutting master, Paul Dare, with rare education and cutting techniques in this comprehensive and content-rich master-class. To access this phenomenal opportunity to take your career to the next level, visit pauldare.co

HOW CAN WE BETTER THE INDUSTRY?

Being a part of the AHC strengthens our representation with Government Departments that make decisions affecting our businesses, hairdressers and barbers. A fragmented industry does not help an industry voice.

WHAT ELSE IS THERE?

The AHC Salon Select and Barber checklist sets you apart by recognising ethical business practices. It’s recognition for you, your staff, and your clients that you proudly run a professional business. The AHC also has Green Accreditation to let your clients and community know about your passion for the environment through your business. How you can support your industry’s future and sustainability is to join the AHC. We have your interests at heart and want to see your industry respected and valued.

Education 2023 with

REVLON PROFESSIONAL

The key to unlock the door to your progress is in your hands, allowing you to keep evolving with dedication and passion. With you and your business in mind, Revlon have created a refined premier education offering. For you, they have selected truly useful and cutting-edge knowledge to contribute to your artistic and business development.

Revlon’s education will allow you to explore new territories and maximise your talent with a precise dose of creativity for your everyday requirements. Through Training and upgrading, you will expose, in a perfect equation, your own ideas, your potential and your accomplishments for your professional success.

INTRODUCING YOU TO THE REVLON EDUCATION TEAM:

Uros Mikic - National Artistic Ambassador Uros is extremely passionate about education and the future of the industry. An extremely creative and talented all-rounder, Uros loves to cut, style and colour hair to create the total look, embracing that everyone has a unique vision for how they want their hair to look. It is with this unique approach to individuality that he will be sharing his passion for cutting curly hair - an extension of his salon name Kinky Curly Straight. In these workshops Uros will be sharing his unique philosophy and approach to working with curly hair. This year will also see Uros leading the way at the Revlon ‘Visionaries’ inspiration evenings where he will demonstrate a variety of new and insuring looks, whilst sharing the stage with some of the most up and coming stylists and colourists.

Paula Hibbard - Long Hair Styling Ambassador

Paula is one of hairdressings most in-demand long hair educators. Paula has a wealth of knowledge and experience with a career spanning three decades in the industry. She has worked in multiple salons and had her work featured in magazines, tv shows, movies, live productions, events, and the list goes on.

Paula’s classroom is well known for being a fun and comfortable space, learn how to create beautiful looks with ease, at a pace that will ensure that your long hair styling days are stress free and enjoyable.

Sanja Scher & Steph Bacelic –Creative Cut & Colour Creative Ambassadors

Sanja Scher and Steph Bacelic both hail from newly established boutique salon, Beatnik Studio in Melbourne. Together this dynamic motherdaughter duo will be sharing their passion and knowledge for cutting and colouring with the next generation of hairdressers.

Courtney MasonBalayage Ambassador

Courtney has travelled around the globe, showcasing her talents at events held in a variety of locations including London, Las Vegas, New York, and Mexico. Courtney brings a fresh and exciting approach to Bombshell Balayage with her simple, salon friendly techniques.

Mojca Bizjak-MikicBusiness Management Presenter

Revlon Professional Business Course is a business management and leadership program for salon owners wanting a better understanding of their business, its opportunities and how to plan for future success. The course consists of three modules covering the main salon business knowledge needs.

The Revlon Education Team are bringing their workshops and programs to QLD, VIC, NSW, and S.A

For more information visit www.revlonprofessional.com

The Power of

PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION

By Anthony Gray, MIG Training

Hairdressing is a dynamic and constantly evolving industry, requiring professionals to continuously upskill and adapt to new trends and techniques. This makes it essential for hairdressing vocational education and training (VET) programs to remain current and relevant, and one of the most effective ways to achieve this is through education partnerships.

Education partnerships bring together educators from Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s), company/suppliers and independent industry educators, to develop and deliver high-quality VET programs that meet the needs of the industry. This collaborative approach to education has proven to be incredibly powerful in the hairdressing industry, as it ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for a successful career.

One of the key benefits of education partnerships in hairdressing is the close collaboration between RTO educators and company educators. This close collaboration allows RTO educators to gain valuable insights into the latest trends and techniques in the industry, which can then be incorporated into their programs. This ensures that students are learning the skills and knowledge that are most relevant and in-demand in the industry.

The strongest example of this partnership is between the training organisation and the colour company. While an essential element of the formal training delivered by the RTO is to provide the apprentice with the foundation skills that allow them to work with all brands and ranges, a strong company and RTO educator partnership allow the salon and apprentice to take this knowledge and give it real world context.

At MIG Training we have forged a strong partnership arrangement with Loreal Professional. The value of this education partnership is substantial. MIG has access to world class colour education for the MIG team keeps our RTO educators at the forefront of the latest industry trends and techniques. Furthermore, MIG is able to support company educators with insight into the requirements of the Certificate III Hairdressing in training and how to best incorporate company education into the apprentice’s journey.

In addition to providing students with up-todate training, education partnerships also

help to bridge the gap between education and employment. By working closely with industry professionals, RTO educators can better understand the skills and knowledge that employers need when training an apprentice. This information can then be used to develop programs that align with industry needs and provide students with the best possible chance of succeeding in the salon and as a senior after completing their formal training.

Another important benefit of education partnership is that for those students who are completing a course by and institutional pathway where they are attending full time at the RTO the right partnerships provide students with real-world experience and exposure to the industry. Many partnerships include opportunities for students to participate in on-the-job training, or work placement programs. These programs allow students to apply the theory and techniques they have learned in the classroom to realworld scenarios, which can greatly enhance their understanding and prepare them for a successful career.

Furthermore, education partnerships can also provide students with access to the latest equipment, tools, and technologies used in the industry. This can be particularly important in the hairdressing industry, where new tools and technologies are constantly being developed and introduced. By providing students with access to these resources, education partnerships help to ensure that students are learning the most

up-to-date techniques and are well-prepared for the demands of the industry.

The power of education partnerships in hairdressing VET is also evident in the positive outcomes for students and the industry. Students who participate in these programs are better equipped to succeed in the workforce with the skills and knowledge. As a result, they are more likely to build careers in the industry and make valuable contributions to the industry as a whole.

Moreover, the close collaboration between educators and industry professionals can also lead to the development of new programs and initiatives that better meet the needs of the industry. This can result in a more highly skilled and prepared workforce, which can have a positive impact on the industry as a whole.

In conclusion, education partnerships are an essential component of hairdressing VET, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to succeed in the industry. Through close collaboration between Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s), company / suppliers and independent industry educators students receive a comprehensive education that is aligned with industry needs and prepares them for a successful career. With the ongoing evolution of the hairdressing industry, education partnerships will continue to play an important role in ensuring that the industry remains strong and vibrant.

THE INVESTMENTS YOU NEED TO MAKE!

By Kristie Kesic, Cobelle Creative

Every day, every client that walks through your door, is making an investment in themselves, in the way they feel, the way they look and in the way they spend their time. The most important thing we need to remember is, they are also making an investment into our business.

For business owners it’s our direct business, for employees, your personal column in the computer, is your business. It’s your clients in these column that keep you employed. Clients are spoilt for choice when it comes to salons, there is so many out there and within these salons there are so many hairdressers to choose from.

Keeping all this In mind, I want you to ask yourself this big question,

What am I doing to invest in myself and my business to ensure my clients are choosing to invest their time and money into my services?

If you’re reading this article, I want you to do a little audit of yourself and your business based around the above question.

To help you out I’m going to break it down into two categories. Business owners and employees

Business Owners

Let’s get straight to the point. What are you doing to invest in your business? Business is tough and I’m the biggest believer in you need a support network around you that will make the hard parts of owning a business so much more enjoyable.

Do you have a group of salon owner friends you can bounce off?

Do you have a business coach?

Do you have a great accountant?

I sure as hell have all of these.

How does your salon actually look compared to how you want the world to see your brand?

Do your clients match your brand?

Do these two things align? If not, why not?

What are you doing to invest in your team?

What are you investing in their education?

What are you doing to invest into their future careers?

What are you investing into their well-being?

What are you doing to make them choose you?

Your team is your most valuable asset. Be good to them, appreciate them, give them your time, your skill and invest in them. In turn they will invest in your business.

What products are you investing in?

Product company choice is a personal preference. Some choose companies for price point, some for rebate options, some for creative opportunities. But whatever company you choose to invest your money and business into, it has to be one that aligns with your values and your brand values. You owe it to yourself, your team, and your clients, to provide them with the best products you believe in. If you want to be seen as a luxury brand, plain and simple, you need to be investing in a superior product company, that supports YOU! If you want to charge your clients a premium price point, you need to partner with a product company with the most innovative products on the market.

As owners we have a lot of things and people to look after, but we tend to neglect ourselves. If we don’t take care of our ourselves, how can we take care of everything else we need to take care of. So, this is a big one, What are you doing to invest in yourself?

Now to the Employees. You are a brand within yourself. What tools are you investing in? Stylists it’s your scissors, for colourists it’s your combs and brushes. For me as a colourist, in my salon everyone knows don’t touch my YS Park tail combs and I will only use foil me foil, flatter me, heavy collection. My favourite colour brushes got discontinued from the brand I used, so I tracked down the supplier on Alibaba and sourced them directly. Some may think it’s a little crazy but to me my combs and brushes and foils is just

as important as what scissors a stylist uses. What education are you investing in?

Don’t just think it’s your bosses job to supply you with education or pay for your courses. You need to take responsibility for your own career too. Be invested, communicate with your boss, be proactive, invest in the courses you know will make you the best hairdresser you can be. Invest your time into assisting to gain experience.

We spend so much time at work and with our work team, is the team you are part of the right team for you? Are you supported. I’m the biggest believer in there is a salon for everyone so just because you doesn’t fit in one salon only means you haven’t found your team yet.

What self-care are you investing in? Do you spend your day off for you, or are you spending it doing cheap hair for your friends to make them feel good?

Ok wow I know that’s a lot to think about, but if you can sit down and take the time and asses each question.

And lastly this one won’t actually cost you a cent but will be your biggest ROI.

What are you doing to make each person feel valued?

Owners, do you thank you employees at the end of each day?

Employees, do you let your boss know they are doing a great day?

Are you thanking your clients for coming into the salon?

H a i r c o l o u r w i l l n e v e r b e i n b e t t e r h a n d s D i s c o v e r a n e w h o l i s t i c e x p e r i e n c e i n t h e s a l o n t h a n k s t o K I N E S S E N C E C o l o u r a n d i t s n e w v e g a n O E S + v t e c h n o l o g y .

H a i r c o l o u r w i l l n e v e r b e i n b e t t e r h a n d s D i s c o v e r a n e w h o l i s t i c e x p e r i e n c e i n t h e s a l o n t h a n k s t o K I N E S S E N C E C o l o u r a n d i t s n e w v e g a n O E S + v t e c h n o l o g y .

K I N E S S E N C E S C o l o u r i s a n a m m o n i a - f r e e 2 - i n - 1 c o l o r s y s t e m . I t s v e r s a t i l i t y a l l o w s f o r a n i n f i n i t e r a n g e o f c o l o r s e r v i c e s , t h a n k s t o i t s d u a l f u n c t i o n a s a p e r m a n e n t a n d d e m i p e r m a n e n t c o l o r .

K I N E S S E N C E S C o l o u r i s a n a m m o n i a - f r e e 2 - i n - 1 c o l o r s y s t e m . I t s v e r s a t i l i t y a l l o w s f o r a n i n f i n i t e r a n g e o f c o l o r s e r v i c e s , t h a n k s t o i t s d u a l f u n c t i o n a s a p e r m a n e n t a n d d e m i p e r m a n e n t c o l o r .

1 0 0 m l . F r o m $ 9 . 9 5

1 0 0 m l . F r o m $ 9 . 9 5

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She/Her/Fox was born from Mia’s desire to create a foil that she could gift through her online plat-form. The resulting product? An artfully curated collection that blends the best of current trends with unique line art and an iridescent finish.

Beyond its beautiful design intricacies, She/Her/Fox combines Foil Me’s signature embossing and exclusive foil composition to ensure effortless application and optimal results. Ideal for those who pre-fer a flat foil, this gorgeous collection is exclusively available in The Flatter Me – Wide style (15cm x 27cm) and features a 2cm fold for ease and convenience. Perfectly encapsulating femininity and creative expression, She/Her/Fox is sure to elicit an air of tran-quillity between you and your guest. Innovative and on trend, this collaborative foil is a must-have addition to your salon. www.foilme.com.au

ELEVATE YOUR SALON’S AESTHETICS WITH COMFORTEL’S LATEST FURNITURE STYLES

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Create a Stylish, Free-Standing Mirror Station with Comfortel’s Pole Frame Salon Mirror Joiner. Avail-able in Black or White, this powder-coated metal frame extends to the ceiling, allowing you to connect LED mirrors or power tools through the central pole. With two round metal benches included, simply add two Comfortel mirrors to complete the look and elevate your salon’s sophistication!

THE BOARD BY FOIL ME

Meet Archie, Comfortel’s new Salon Chair with Clear Acrylic Arms and Textured Sand Uphol-stery. Experience the perfect blend of form and function with Comfortel’s new salon chair, Archie - a stun-ning statement piece with bold curves and striking contrast. The clear acrylic arms and textured sand upholstery add a touch of sophistication and elegance, while its exploration of light and form adds a sense of weightlessness and transparency to your salon’s interior.

www.comfortel.com.au

With sustainability being a primary consideration, Foil Me is delighted to introduce a board that is en-tirely fashioned from recycled plastic and is 100% recyclable - the first of its kind! Adorned with Foil Me’s exclusive signature embossing, which works to grip the foil and prevent slipping, this innovative tool ensures and even application, every time. And, for hairdressers who prefer painting on a smooth surface, The Board can be easily flipped over to suit their preference. Intelligently crafted, The Board also features one straight edge and another slightly curved. Built with flexibility in mind, this light-weight tool perfectly conforms to any contour to enhance comfort and reduce the risk of RSI.

www.foilme.com.au

A b l i s s f u l fi v e m i n u t e s w h e r e t h e e n t i r e h e a d s o a k s i n w a r m w a t e r T h e s o o t h i n g s o u n d o f fl o w i n g w a t e r t r a n s c e n d i n g y o u r c l i e n t t o a b l i s s f u l r e l a x e d s t a t e . O n l y m o i s t u r e r e m a i n s t o p r o m o t e s c a l p h e a l t h a n d w e l l - b e i n g T h e Y u m e H e a d b a t h c a n b e a t t a c h e d a n d r e m o v e d e a s i l y w i t h t h e c l i e n t i n t h e t r e a t m e n t p o s i t i o n . Y u m e H e a d b a t h a t t a c h m e n t i s c o m p a t i b l e w i t h m o s t Y u m e l i e - f l a t c o m p l e t e l y s e r i e s

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Legrest

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When clients are lying on their back, the Yume Noble is completely flat with zero degree tilt allowing a fully flat posture

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The lumbar cushion adapts to each individual body shape to gently support the hip area

Neck Rest Cushion

Stress on the neck is alleviated by supporting it in perfect balance at three points via two gel-filled head pillows and neck cushion

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INTO THE BLUE

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LIGHTWEIGHT FOR LEAVE-IN STYLING

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For more information: Call Dateline Imports on (02) 9666 3611 or visit datelineimports.com.au

THE TURBO

New Year, New Mindset, New Results!

By Angeli Marie Shaw

Our minds really are something to marvel at. It’s at the centre of some of our most rewarding and heart filling experiences. It lets in curiosity, wisdom, love and laughter but also helps us overcome some of life’s greatest trials. Our minds really are one of our greatest assets, but can also be our greatest adversary, allowing in thoughts of self-doubt, anxiety and depression, to name a few. It can magnify our fears, even undermine our best intentions, so how can we take control of our mindsets and better understand, improve and change it?

Let’s face it. Most, if not all of us began 2022 running off less than a full tank. With the events of the last few years, constant change, unpredictability and uncertainty of what could be coming, we found ourselves in a constant state of living on edge, making it difficult to relax or feel calm. Some of us may have coped better than others, but that ‘what’s next’ feeling lingered, and possibly still lingers now. Our interactions changed, the way we do business changed, we united with some and grew apart from others. We formed strong opinions on major issues or tried our best to block it all out. 2022 really was a huge year to process.

So, what now for 2023? What can we do differently? What have we been doing that perhaps wasn’t working? Rather than me listing suggestions on what you can do, here are some things I’d like you to consider when thinking about your mindset and the way that you want to show up this coming year.

1. Two people look at a glass of water, one sees it half empty, the other sees it half full. One is optimistic, the other is pessimistic. But I want you to consider, which of the two is more realistic? Which is more useful? Which one will most likely lead to a better mindset? Both people are correct in their observation, however which way of thinking will serve you better?

2. Forgiveness. More than just a pragmatic compromise, it’s an emotional resolution. It allows us to let go of bitterness and anger, and therefore be happier. Forgiveness is a little like exercise, we might not want to do it, but we know it’s good for us. The opposite of this is holding a grudge, which can become

quite consuming and corrosive. We can get stuck focusing on the same unpleasant event which nurtures these unpleasant feelings. Overall, this does nothing for our mental health and mindset. Remember, we can’t control what others do, but we can control how we respond. How are you responding to certain situations and people?

3. All of us are capable of change. But how do you view change? And how do you view change within yourself? If you tell yourself ‘I can’t help it’ or ‘that’s just the way I am’ guess what? Nothing changes. Rather than thinking of change as a complete rebuild, view it more like a renovation. The foundations are there, so what can you work on? What can you improve? What is working well for you and what isn’t?

4. When it comes to anger, it’s probably one of our most regretted emotions. But it does have its uses, like when we need to protect ourselves and others, but when anger isn’t controlled, it can damage our relationships, even our reputations. The positive? We can learn to control it and channel it into something more useful. Keep in mind, you should never tell yourself to never get angry. That isn’t going to work, and feelings happen. But when we let it consume us, it affects the way we make decisions, interact with others, and potentially causes us to miss out on what we’re not seeing, therefore not learning. Have a think about how anger is showing up in your life. What effect is it having on your mindset and your view of the world?

5. How often do you genuinely put yourself and your needs first? Do you feel selfish when you think of making yourself a priority? Firstly, lets define what selfishness is. Put

simply, it’s seeking or concentrating on one’s own advantage, without regard for others. Intent plays a big part in what you do when putting yourself first, so ask yourself these questions, “am I choosing to put myself first, at all costs, even if it may intentionally hurt or cause harm to others” or “am I choosing to put myself first because I know in doing so, I will thrive and have far more to give to myself and others?” Very different ways to look at it right? But also, with different outcomes. Ponder that for a moment.

How’s the headspace? What I’ve shared can be a lot to wrap your head around, but it does get you thinking, doesn’t it?

Changing our mindsets doesn’t happen overnight, but with focused intent, practice and dedication, we can produce changes that will help make us calmer, happier and more resilient. Cultivating this kind of ‘flow’ regularly, they will eventually become traits. Just like forming new habits takes time, so too does changing your mindset, all you need to do is make the decision to start. After all, research shows that our mindsets play a significant role in determining our life’s outcomes.

Question is, what outcome are you wanting for 2023?

Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo

Angeli is a Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor and founder of The Bliss Coach. To work with me in 2023 individually or with your team, get in touch by visiting www.theblisscoach.com.au or follow us on our socials @theblisscoach to find out more.

A Sustainable Journey Through Bare Beauty House

By Paul Frasca

Sustainability in the salon is an ongoing journey. My partner Ewelina and I began our Sustainable Salons journey by taking a trip around Australia, discovering that the industry was sending 1 million kilograms of infinitely recyclable aluminium foil to landfill every year. Now more than 10 years later, Sustainable Salons services 1400+ salons in Australia and New Zealand, and we’ve recycled over 1.2 million kilograms of salon waste.

We recently caught up with long-time Sustainable Salons member Naomi Browner from Bare Beauty House in Manly, NSW to chat through her business journey and how Sustainable Salons has supported her sustainability mission.

Q&A: Tell us about why you joined Sustainable Salons.

I first discovered Sustainable Salons while operating my previous salon, and just fell in love with the concept. As I have expanded and opened my hair and beauty salon, Bare Beauty House in Manly now, the Sustainable Salons program was a no-brainer for waste removal.

“It was just amazing and a game changer for the industry.” Naomi

Browner / Owner of Bare Beauty House

Operationally do the team find the

Sustainable Salons program easy to use across both hair and beauty services?

Yes! The bins are amazing, they give instructions on what to do, and what not to do, as long as we have them in the right spots I find that is quite key. The kitchen has been designed to specifically fit the bins. They’re nicely tucked away but also really accessible. We worked out how many bins we needed, where we needed them, and what was going to make the most sense with how the staff operate daily.

What does Sustainability mean to your clients?

In Manly, it’s a really big focus for a lot of people. People are really sustainably minded, and they really live that lifestyle. Our clients seek us out because we can offer them that little bit extra. They can come in, have their luxurious treatments and know that it’s sustainable, know we are using toxic-free treatments & products, and recycle correctly. Our clients are happy to pay a Sustainable Salons Fee because then they can walk away from their services knowing they’re doing something good for themselves and the planet.

“Consumers are really looking for that nextlevel service, gearing themselves around what they can do as far as their hair and beauty treatments having minimal impact on the earth, but a great impact on their lifestyle.” Renee Pearce / Sustainable Salons Customer Success Manager

What has been the greatest impact your salon has made since joining our program?

The ability to recycle all of the plastic bottles accumulated from hair and beauty services! We do all we can to reduce our

waste, and one additional service we offer is a refill station, where clients can refill any product they need into a previously purchased plastic or glass bottle. For our beauty services, being able to recycle the waxing spatulas and the waxing strips was an absolute game-changer.

Top sustainability tips from Bare Beauty House:

1. Partnering with sustainably minded brands

2. Becoming a Sustainable Salons Member

3. Using eco-head basins - saving 60% of water

4. Plan how many bins you need & where to keep them

5. Optimise your space eg. small bins that decant into larger bins in a designated area

6. Upcycling product packaging

7. Research those sustainable swaps eg. recycled salon foil!

8. Implement a client refill station

9. Talk to your clients about sustainability and what is important to them

Taking one step at a time, big or small, will help you kickstart your sustainability journey and will speak volumes to your staff & clients. New eco-conscious consumers are also more likely to seek you out because your values align with theirs. From ecohead basins, hair colour with packaging that breaks down as you use it, refill stations to recycled salon foil, you can help make sustainability reality for your salon community.

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To Lose Patience is to Lose the Battle!

By Sheridan Rose Shaw

In the midst of the global pandemic, I took a great risk to follow my dream. To change the landscape of hairdressing and small business by opening up a hair salon - collaborative working space. I’d bare witnessed and experienced firsthand the conflicts of the industry and chose whole heartedly not to feed into the narrative and rather create my own. A new world. That has been my mantra since I expanded my business from sole trader to a company.

MAMAWEST has been open for 2 years, today! We quickly grew from a team of 3, to 6 and now to 10. My greatest problem that I faced recently was that I had the great pick of two incredibly talented hairdressers that I would have loved to have taken on both though quite frankly we are at total capacity. Not enough space to expand with our compromising the premium experience we have to offer. Job applications have been competitive, and we haven’t struggled finding apprentices.

Why am I sharing my story? Because I want to help. I want to let you in on the 5 key things that I am practising that I believe are the reason for our success and that have put us in a healthy position.

Principles — I live my live based on a simple set of principles that help guide me through life. Honesty, hope, surrender, courage, integrity, willingness, humility, love, responsibility, discipline, awareness, and service.

That means taking responsibility for my behaviour when I am wrong [I ain’t perfect!], paying my taxes [to the dollar], paying my team EVERYTHING they are entitled to and more, doing what I say I’m going to do, listening to the needs of the team, and delivering.

Doing the work — Being a leader comes

great responsibility. I now more than ever have to be deep diving and taking a great look at my past traumas and behaviours and how they manifest into my life because the truth is, they still do. I have mentors in my life personal and professional that hold me accountable on my shit. It isn’t comfortable but it keeps me humble.

Culture — This is something that has come very naturally to me and probably because of my co dependence [lol]. All defects of character are also assets when I can find the grey area. Putting the needs of my team before my own. Though that also meant putting the needs of my team before clients. They are the most important thing to me, and it is my responsibility as a leader to hear them; implement their visions and ideas and keep them prospering in their career. We stopped working Saturdays in feb 2022 and it was one of the best things I could have ever done for my team, and I believe that’s one of the core reasons we are turning away hairdressers.

Vulnerability — We all struggle with things but sharing them is not a weakness. On Friday I was prepping for a competition and started crying in the back room. I showed my team that I am human. I feel very deeply about things. My apprentice actually said to me I love how real you are. Now that is a gift not just to me but for my whole team!

Individuality — We are in a saturated market but there is enough in the world to go around. I made sure my salon wasn’t going to look like the rest. MAMAWEST is literally an explosion of my insides on the outside. We are unique and we are different not just in our fit out but in our skill set. We specialise in niche areas like VIVID COLOUR, advanced cutting, curly hair cutting. I’ve had many hairdressers come to me because they want to learn these specific areas and have taken pay cuts from previous jobs just for the MAMAWEST experience.

Practicing Gratitude Creates Happiness

By Clive Allwright

I recently returned home to Australia after spending the last 7 months living in the UK with my dad. During my time away, I learnt so much about myself, my dad and his illness also my family back in England. Some of whom I hadn’t seen for many years. It was certainly challenging being away from my wife and children, my business, colleagues and close friends for such a long time.

I am also very grateful to be given the gift to take this opportunity to create new beautiful memories of fun and laughter, with all my family and friends in and around London and England’s stunningly beautiful countryside. It was also tough going some days. I found myself having to dig deep and remind myself why I was on the other side of the world, so far from my home of many decades. I was away from everything and anything from my comfort zone. My lack of familiarity of some the most basic things, I had become so accustomed too. Like, a decent cup of coffee, or knowing where things are in the supermarket, or learning to park facing the wrong way on a street, takes a little getting used too.

As I mentioned in my previous blog, one of the ways I got through some the toughest days was to journal my day and thoughts. Another great practice was to write a gratitude list of all the amazing things I am thankful for in my life today.

Gratitude is a powerful force that can positively impact our lives in countless ways. It is a feeling of appreciation for what we have, whether it’s something as simple as a beautiful day or as significant as the people we love. When we focus on gratitude, we shift our attention away from what we lack and instead focus on what we have, which can bring greater joy, peace, and contentment into our lives.

There are many reasons why gratitude is

important. First and foremost, it helps us to cultivate a positive mindset. When we take time to acknowledge and appreciate the good things in our lives, we create a sense of abundance and positivity that can help us navigate difficult times. Studies have shown that people who regularly practice gratitude tend to be more optimistic, experience greater levels of happiness and wellbeing, and have a more positive outlook on life.

Gratitude can also help us to build stronger relationships. When we express gratitude to others, we show them that we appreciate and value them. This can deepen our connection with them and help to build trust and intimacy in our relationships. In addition, when we are grateful for the people in our lives, we are more likely to treat them with kindness and compassion, which can strengthen our bonds with them. Another benefit of gratitude is that it can help us to become more resilient in the face of challenges. When we focus on the things we are grateful for, we build a reserve of positive emotions that can help us cope with stress and adversity. This can help us to bounce back more quickly from setbacks and to maintain a sense of perspective when things don’t go as planned.

So how can we cultivate gratitude in our daily lives? Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Keep a gratitude journal. Take a few minutes each day to write down a few things you are grateful for. They can be big or small, and they can be related to any aspect of your life. The act of writing them down can help to solidify your appreciation for them and make them feel more real.

2. Practice mindfulness. Take time each day to tune into your surroundings and appreciate the beauty around you. Whether you’re out in nature or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home or even in the salon,

take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to fully immerse in the moment.

3. Express gratitude to others. Take time to thank the people in your life who make a difference. Whether it’s a friend who listened to you vent or a co-worker who helped you with a difficult haircut or colour, let them know that you appreciate them.

4. Look for the silver lining. When faced with challenges or setbacks, try to focus on the positive aspects of the situation. For example, if you’re going through a difficult time at work, you could be grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow from the experience.

5. Practice gratitude in challenging situations. When things get tough, it can be easy to focus on what’s going wrong. Instead, try to find something to be grateful for in the midst of the challenge. For example, if you’re dealing with a health issue, you could be grateful for the support of your loved ones or the knowledge that you’re receiving the best possible care. By practicing gratitude regularly, we can transform our lives in powerful ways. We can become more resilient, more positive, and more connected to the people around us. So, take a few minutes each day to focus on the things you’re grateful for, and see how it can transform your life for the better.

With gratitude

Clive X

The AMBA provide the Australian Barbering Industry a much needed and often requested benchmark of excellence and platform to showcase and be recognised for creative and business skills.

OPEN FOR ENTRY 3rd April ‘23

PRODUCT ENTRY DEADLINE 3rd July ‘23

GENERAL ENTRY DEADLINE 21st Aug ‘23

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 18th Sept ‘23

GALA AWARDS NIGHT 5th November ‘23

AMBA 2023 CATEGORIES.

PHOTOGRAPHIC AND BUSINESS CATEGORIES

Australian Modern Barber of the Year

Australian Modern Barber Business of the Year

PHOTOGRAPHIC CATEGORIES

Best Barber Collection Junior

Best Barber Collection Classic

Best Barber Collection Freestyle

Best Barber Team Collection

BUSINESS CATEGORIES

Best Director/Owner of the Year

Best Customer Care

Best Men’s Educator of the Year (Individual) Best Men’s Educator of the Year (Organisation) Best Barbershop Design of the Year

SPECIAL CATEGORIES

International Modern & Barber of the Year

NOMINATED CATEGORIES Special Recognition & Hall of Fame

CLEAN SKIN PROFESSIONAL PRODUCT AWARDS CATEGORIES

HAIR CARE - Best Shampoo and Conditioner pair or 2 in one product

HAIR STYLE - Best Styling Product. Entries can include:- Styling Wax, Cream or Paste

BEARD CARE - Best Beard Care Product. Entries can include:- Oil, Wax, Cream or Paste

Gala Awards Night 5th November 2023. Plaza Ballroom, Melbourne

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! www.mochagroup.com.au/shop

Shoot ready!

Awards season is well and truly upon us, and this is usually the time where my inbox gets flooded with messages asking how to get started? How do we best prepare? And if I have any tips to share! Along with replying to them, having phone calls etc I decided now is the perfect time to write a blog post on it!

First things first:

Get your concept and mood board.

Google like crazy! Instagram, Pinterest, magazines, the inspiration search is endless! Get your mood board going. The more images that pop at you the more inspired you are to create!

Then confirm what is it you want to do, what speaks to your heart? Get firm on the inspo. Live it and breath it. Things to consider when planning your shoot… lighting:

Are you shooting for awards, collection, or advertising? Is it colour or black and white? The hair you want to achieve, is it headshots, full body, crop, or portrait shots?

This is where your mood board and communication with your photographer are essential!

GET YOUR A TEAM:

Photographer: who are you shooting with?

The team you work with will support your whole vision, so choose wisely! A good photographer, a good makeup artist, and a good stylist make for a great success story. Communicating and sharing your mood board is key and then taking it to the next level comes from communication with them and asking their professional opinion. This is where the dream morphs.

Budget: Yes, it’s possible to shoot on a low budget! Some of my fav images have been shot

By Brodie Lee Tsiknaris

on models I’ve found on the street, trading a free colour, and cut for them in the collection and styled by myself! Plan your budget and understand that agency models will cost more but the girls will move beautifully, and you will get the shot quicker!

Photographers: a young and upcoming photographer vs someone who understands Hair and is an experienced shooter. This will be the difference of the most part of the budget.

Stylist: Makeup Artist - Lunch and coffees for the team - Entry fees - This all comes into the budget. However, Money doesn’t win, talent does. Don’t be put off on a low budget. Get your thinking cap on and Call-in favours, Barter and talk to designer and makeup students and collaborate.

GET ORGANISED:

Be clear about what you want to achieve for your collection and plan every look in detail. Practice, practice, practice for the big day as you can never be too organised! Don’t leave anything to chance. But it is important to have a few options in your mind in case one isn’t working, and you need to change direction.

Shoot for you and no one else – don’t shoot for the Awards to win, shoot for the love of art, creating what you love and what is true to you. It must speak to your heart, represent you as an artist and most of all show your skill set. Stay focused! Don’t lose sight of your beautiful story you’ve created! Make sure your images all work together as a collection and has a nice mood and feel to it.

I wish you all the best,

Brodie xx Rokstar academy

5 Simple Ways to Save Time and Show Up on your Salons Socials in 2023!

By Social Media Marketing Expert For Salons Bel From Social Standards

Another year means more social media content for your salons marketing, but it doesn’t have to be hard or time consuming. Stop overthinking it and simplify your salons socials with these easy content ideas that are quick to create and will drive awareness and connection across your platforms.

1. Share what’s happening in your salon

Your audience wants to connect with you and see what you are doing. They are interested to know what’s happening in your salon every day!

Share behind the scenes content in your IG stories and reels to show a glimpse into the everyday life of your team and salon brand. Whether it’s a slow pan around your salon space, a new stock order being unpacked and put on the shelves, or the morning coffee run for your team, these seemingly ‘mundane’ activities are in fact what people love to see. I guarantee it will increase your engagement!

2. Use your client’s content

If you have clients that love taking selfies or sharing their new hairstyle on their own social media accounts, then re-use this content on your salon’s pages.

Make sure you tag your clients in the post to credit their image and boost your engagement (they will receive a notification of the tag and will usually like or comment on your post). This type of content shows the quality of work and also helps strengthen online relationships with your audience to drive engagement.

3. Ask questions in your captions – but be specific

It seems so simple but asking questions in your captions will help increase engagement and connection with your followers. However, the key is to make these questions specific!

Most people make the mistake of asking questions that are too open-ended leading to little or no comments on your post – sound familiar?

Instead ask a question that outlines specific answers for your audience to choose from,

like yes or no, or pick a favourite 1, 2 or 3? Why? They won’t have to think about it as the answer is right in front of them, and they are therefore more likely to just type, boosting your engagement.

4. Use interactive elements

Instagram has so many interactive elements that you can use to make it easy for your audience to engage with your social media content.

Have fun by adding polls, quizzes or question boxes into your stories and reels. Include your audience in salon decisions like product displays or Q&As with your team. There are so many fun ways to involve your team and clients!

5. Review your analytics and set your schedule – consistency is key! When was the last time you looked at your social media insights? It’s something we don’t realty make the time for, but it will help you work smarter, not harder. It’s important to post when most of your audience is online to ensure your content is getting the best chance to perform well. Make sure you check your analytics and look at your best days and times, as well as your best performing content types.

Once you know these, you can set a realistic posting schedule that you can stick to and create content that you know your audience likes to see!

Follow me on Instagram for more content ideas and time-saving tips

Want some help with your salon’s socials?

Book a free chat to see how we can work together though the link in my Instagram bio.

@socialstandardsau

Socialstandards.com.au

Having worked for one of the largest professional haircare brands developing and implementing digital marketing strategies for the past six years I noticed that social media was something salon owners struggled to find the time for.

I started Social Standards at the end of 2021, with the aim of helping salons save time, attract new clients, and increase their revenue through social media and digital marketing.

As a hairdresser that’s been working in marketing and communications with some of the biggest hair and beauty brands including Toni & Guy and Dermalogica for over 12 years I’ve combined my passions to help salons grow through social media.

Book a complimentary consultation with me through my Instagram bio @socialstandardsau

I’m so excited to work with you and grow your business!

ABOUT BEL FROM SOCIAL STANDARDS.

YOUR

Flex Your Offline Branding Muscle.

By Sarah Garner

Just as you’re about to hit reset a new year’s fitness resolution (you’re not alone, everyone’s got their sights set on that one), you should consider flexing your offline branding muscle. It’s more important than increasing your prices annually ~ like srsly, I’m calling it. *adds date in diary for 2023 service price increase*.

Hear me out…

Your branding can be so much more than what you share online. How do you display your treatment menu or price list? Is it proudly sitting on your reception counter? Online? In every room or station?

How does your team show up when your clients walk into your space?

Does your music oooze your brand’s values and feel?

What does your welcome ritual look like for existing clients, previous ones returning and new ones?

Every stage of your customer’s in-person experience should be a memorable one, connecting their impression to your brand just as much as your logo.

So how can you infuse these into your client’s experience offline to make them feel special, as though a red carpet’s been rolled out through small, but mighty finer details?

It could be an obvious detail like the clothes you and your team wear every day. Clothing is often overlooked but just like you, every single one of your team members is an ambassador for your business. The choice of colour, material and style adds to the experience your clients feel on an emotive level, it also creates an element of familiarity for them by creating a sense of consistency, something making us memorable.

Or, it could be a smaller, finer detail like the music you play in your salon, spa or clinic. While you’re not exactly rushing out to create your very own jingle, the music you chose to play in your space is designed to evoke emotion (in a good way) for your team and clients.

A perfect example of this would be day spa brands using particular sounds and melodies of nature and meditation throughout their treatment rooms and waiting room spaces. Heightening our sense of sound (especially when paired with visual elements and scents), strengthens the message to our brain that we’re in a space of relaxation, serenity and nurturing.

But the use of sound isn’t limited to relaxation spaces. You might have a brand with bold and energetic vibes (or something your purpose feels truly aligned to)! Think loud pinks and powerful blacks, high energy and

unapologetic (my kinda place).

For example, let’s say it’s a rockin’ hair salon, they’ve engaged your excitement through sight, they may have engaged your taste through a zesty signature cocktail but all of a sudden, their music is acoustic Ed Sheeran. Things haven’t quite added up and you’re feeling a little less pumped! The salon coordinator quickly realises they’re on the wrong playlist and cranks up Beyonce. Phew, all senses have made sense again.

When was the last time you checked in on how accessible your treatment menu or list of services is?

People want to know what you do, how you do it, what’s included, how long and most of all, how much? Easily communicate all this *waves hands* via a treatment menu or brochure.

Think about colours, fonts, text sizing, images, print quality (or digital accessibility if you’re not into the printed version) and descriptions! Jazz up the names of your packages or offerings, call them something on brand and relatable to your client’s emotions.

Let’s say your biz wants to work with predominantly mothers, you’d speak to their heart. Understand what their needs, wants and hopes are, as well as walking a mile in their daily grind. Infuse their emotions through dreamy treatment descriptions and then tell them what to do next (aka. How to book in).

Do you welcome newbies with your unique style and flair (first impressions always count)?

Nothing quite says personalised touchpoints like a client welcome kit. The most divine first impression as a new client takes a seat, a welcome kit lets them know you’ve truly thought about their impending appointment and are ready to go above and beyond.

It’s an opportunity to introduce a new client to your brand and your in-person experience. You’re quite literally setting the expectation for them! The quality and texture of your printed materials in your kit, the colours and fonts used to the you guessed it, personalisation of their name and even service, as well as maybe samples or offers, these finer details elevate the perception of quality and sophistication of your brand (if that’s your jam)

Something like an on-brand welcome kit really sets the tone for the overall brand experience and provides a tangible, takehome touchpoint that can be used as part of word-of-mouth referrals (Added bonus? They’ll also likely snap a photo and share it on the ‘gram too - double win!)

There’s an old Chinese Proverb that says, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second-best time is now.”

Truth is, anytime is a great time to start anew, but there’s something so magical about the thought of an entirely new year to realign yourself with your higher purpose.

It’s also a delicious time to check in on your branding and if it’s still aligned. Not only with the now, but fuelled by your purpose for where you’re going.

Sarah Garner is the Founder and Creative Director at Digital Bloom, an industryspecific branding boutique dedicated to making your hair, beauty or wellness brand turn heads for all the right reasons. Connect with Sarah on the ‘gram (@digital_bloom) or send some petal power to hello@digitalbloom.com.au

What to do if someone impersonates your Instagram account!

By Nicole Healy

It was a Wednesday afternoon about two weeks ago, I was in a coaching call when my client said to me, “ oh that’s odd an account just started following me on Instagram, with a similar username to yours” and within the next hour, I had over 50 DM’s from others too asking the same thing.

My heart immediately sunk, oh no! Not again - you see I lost my Instagram account once before in early May of 2021, less than a week after my daughter was born. I was doing an Instagram Story, and was logged out, never to see my account again. I can tell you, it’s a sickening feeling, to think something you’ve worked so hard for was just taken away from, in seconds - without your knowledge!

What had happened just recently - was that someone (a hacker) a created a fake account, pretending to be me, with a bio stating my account had been hacked, and started following people who followed me, trying to get them to unfollow my business account that I use. It such an icky feeling - but lucky for me, my community are smarter than this, they immediately contacted me via my Instagram, Text and Email asking If this was real. I was so proud of these people, I had taught them well how to spot a fake, but there is still a lot of people out there who can’t. If this happens to you, you can go into your settings on Instagram and report a problem, you’re being impersonated. You’ll need to fill in all your details and also upload a photo of you holding your government approved identification, such as your driver’s license or passport. It took about a week for this impersonation account to be taken down.

After reporting this to Instagram myself and my community reporting this fake account pretending to be me, I called Australian Cyber Security to ask them some questions I had around this happening and also any information I can pass on to my community too, to help them. They were saying to me, these groups are professionals who do this, targeting businesses more and more, and they’re offshore, they could be from countries anywhere around the world, and they target people at random.

It’s becoming more and more common in the online space for impersonators to create these accounts, pretending to be business and phish their community into believing them - and try and scam them.

Instagram has become a breeding ground for these hackers to try and steal information from business & people who use this platform, and what’s really awful, is when people get caught

up in this. During lockdowns between 2020 and 2022, it was the biggest influx for people getting these odd DM’s from accounts saying things like “Hey Babe, I need your help” - and this was the start of the hacking. They would send people links, where they would log into Instagram - and these hackers were literally taking their log in credentials and take over their Instagram’s and furthermore Facebook accounts too, losing their whole social media platform - where this is most businesses get their new customers from, gone in just a few clicks, to never be seen again, unless you know someone at Instagram or Facebook, which is almost impossible for a faceless business - these hackers would send accounts and email straight away saying “You’ve been Hacked”, and asking them to send them a huge amount of bitcoins to retrieve their accounts again.

Just this week, Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta announced for Business you will now be able to pay a monthly subscription fee for the blue tick of verification, so this makes it easier for you to be able to contact Metathe home of Facebook and Instagram - with more features around if your account was to be compromised. Australia and New Zealand will the first people to get this feature. Will you be using this? I will. Instagram is where 100% of my business comes from, so it’s an essential part of protecting both my businesses Melbourne Hair Blogger & Social Salon School.

So, here’s some tips to avoid being hacked.

1. Set up two factor authentication on both Facebook & Instagram

2. Have a different email linked to your Instagram account, that’s not visible to the public, for your log in email. You log in email and your public business email should be separate, this makes it harder for anyone to be able to guess your log in details.

3. In your Personal Information in your edit profile on Instagram, make sure the phone number there is a mobile phone number that you have access too, if Instagram need to send you a text message - they will send it to this number. Quite too often I see new clients of mine with a landline here, so make sure you change this to a mobile number you have access too.

4. If you’re not sure if Instagram have sent you an email, go into your Instagram settings, Security and tap on Emails from Instagram - it will show you any email Instagram has sent to you.

5. Don’t click on any links sent to you via DM that say to login to your Instagram or Facebook – even if it looks like it from someone you know, they may have been hacked and they’re trying to get you too.

If you would like to learn more about Social Media for your Salon in 2023 - you can reach me on Instagram @social.salon. school and send me a DM to book a free 15 Minute Discovery call.

The Key Habits of an Organised Business Owner

By Hayley Mears

There are two types of people in the world. The organised and the unorganised. I’m here to tell those peeps in the unorganised category… “it’s ok, you can be converted”. I have essentially converted myself. Eventually, life required me to do LOTS of different things at the same time and getting my shit together was the only way to get through it.

I studied and worked full-time simultaneously. Yep. It was messy, stressful and I was an anxious mess. This wasn’t what made me get organised and streamline my life, but it was certainly the catalyst for a huge change.

As we all go through the various chapters of our life, we have the benefit of wisdom. Learning from our mistakes and using a measure of past lessons and gut instincts to navigate our way through.

If you think about the stressful times in your lives when you felt overwhelmed, there is almost certainly an element of life admin chaos, right? Where to start is the hardest bit. It’s all about reverse engineering your life and your behaviour patterns to get you to a place of ease and calm.

Some things finally click in your head. It could be watching Marie Kondo on Netflix for the first time. ‘It could be scrolling through Pinterest and seeing the perfectly organised office you have always dreamt of.

Make sure your lines of communication are current and streamlined.

Easier said than done right? We have SO many platforms for people to connect with us and this can be our undoing. Emails can be easily lost if we don’t clean our inboxes like we clean our houses.

We need to take out the trash, unsubscribe to the unwanted, highlight the urgent and categorise everything else. If this sounds hectic to you - fair enough. You can work with a virtual assistant who can do this for you or watch YouTube tutorials to get familiar with doing this in your inbox.

When communicating with your team it’s best to simplify and use ONE tool only. It could be a WhatsApp group, a Facebook Group, a Messenger thread, or a TEXT thread. Remember to find a tool that has everything you need. If you’re sharing lots of video files, pdfs or high-res imagery WhatsApp is better at preserving file size and allows you to send longer video clips.

Audio messages will change your life. You know those moments when the info you need to share is more than a message or an email, but not a phone call or a meeting? This is where audio messages are the perfect fit.

How can you use your time effectively? When it feels like you have NO spare hours in your day how can you possibly show up more organised? It’s about using the downtime effectively. If you have long commutes in the car or even short car rides, use this time to get shit done.

Make that phone call, record your latest audio, and listen to that podcast. The same goes for the time you spend doing your house admin. Put some earphones in and take advantage of your latest saved podcast, return the missed call, or listen/ record an audio.

Are you sitting in the car at soccer practice? Order your groceries online.

Are you waiting in the Doctors surgery? Start writing some social media captions in your notes folder

Are you meeting a friend who is running late? Start sorting your emails.

It’s all about using the otherwise redundant time.

Grow your WEALTH In 7 Days!

By Caitlyn Menzel

Today’s article is for the self-employed… It’s no secret that the cost of living is on the rise, pair that with debilitatingly high interest rates, the wildly desperate search for non-existent staff, and our clients becoming more frugal as a result of the current financial climate… so where does that leave us?

Yes, we have to ‘charge what we are worth’ and yes, we have to cover our costs, but we work too hard to not be getting ahead. Are you throwing your money away on shit you don’t need? Are you getting the most out of your business? When was the last time you actually looked over your bank statement? I bet it’s been a hot minute. Some of you are killing it, rolling in cash, and I bloody love that for ya, but if you’re feeling the pinch and wanna get wealthier, keep reading.

This is one task my coaching clients will be working on for the beginning of 2023… how to grow their wealth, so let me give you seven days of #richbitch tasks!

Day One – GET REAL with your financial sitcho!

Priority numero uno, face your financial situation and what’s actually happening money-wise in your life and business. Not facing your shit and burying your head in the sand ain’t doing nothin’ for your finances.

The second part of this is get very clear on your businesses running costs (AKA the bottom line) and also in your personal life. How much does that break down to every month, every week, every day/hour if you want to go that far. “WHAT YOU TRACK EXPANDS” and your money will not be expanding if you have no idea where it’s going.

LITERALLY EVERY SINGLE THING has gone up in price in the past twelve months, like, everything; petrol, postage, import costs, rent, rates, manufacturing, and mortgage rates… EVERYTHING! Have you adjusted your service menu relative to that?

As you complete this task, trim the fatty bits out of your budget and get rid of the things you don’t need. It’s a shock to see where your money is going sometimes.

Day Two – SELL IT BACK!

Got a stack of products on your shelves that you literally don’t sell? Those dust-collectors that just occupy space? You don’t love them, your staff hate them, they literally just sit

there as dead money? Contact your supplier and sell that shit right back to the peeps you bought them from!

Most product companies will buy your products back for around 20% less than what you paid for them, meaning you have more room on your shelves for stuff you actually use and endorse, and you have more money to invest into other products with your supplier. (That’s a great way to ask for the buy back too!)

Also, when switching product companies did you know that most will swap out your products onefor-one, or buy back the existing companies’ stock and credit you? Hell yeah.

Day Three – DON’T TEMPT ME WITH A GOOD TIME!

This one is simples… go through your PayPal account, go through your app store, and unsubscribe to all those tempting emails that get dropped into your inbox. You have no idea how many random apps and weird sites your money will be connected to. $4.99 a month may not seem like much, but times that by ten apps and you’ve got yourself two nights away in a boujee hotel every year. I quite literally found $980 of annual costs on random stuff I wasn’t using. Wild.

Day Four – SHOW YOUR MONEY THE RESPECT IT DESERVES!

Okay, okay. So here I am gonna get a little woo-woo on you here.

Firstly, watch your dang mouth and your language around money. Focussed on cancellations? What do you think you’re manifesting. Focussed on gaps in your appointment book? Where is your energy being directed? Where your focus goes, your energy flows.

Here’s the thing about respecting money… money is energy, and it needs to be constantly moving and flowing. What message are you sending your cash?

Do you have coins all through your car? Receipts floating around the bottom of your handbag? How about notes all crunched up and shoved in your wallet? LOL. What is that saying about money? “You treat me with disrespect, so I am gonna disrespect you” comes to mind!

Have a coin jar, bank your cash notes, or use them to buy something. Flatten out your notes in your wallet and file your receipts or bin them if you don’t need them any longer. Come on, it isn’t rocket science! ...actually, it’s quantum physics this universe stuff, but you get what I mean.

Day Five – I HEART FREEBIES!

Don’t we all love a good freebie? Well, why the fuck are you paying for testers, basin use products, salon use things? Why are you paying for education with a company

you spend thousands of dollars a month with, as well as use, promote and endorse THEIR PRODUCTS? Stop pulling my leg and negotiate a better deal.

If you’re selling someone’s products and they aren’t giving you the tester to be able to use on your clients, to enable that sale, and to provide that value to your people, there is something extremely wrong with that picture.

Also, if you aren’t getting 100% mark up on all your retail products, time to change it up. That’s gross by the company.

Day Six – PRICING FOR PROFIT!

For god’s sake, PLEASE STOP PRICING YOURSELF BASED ON OTHER PEOPLE!! Your costs, your wage, your people, your products, your shop, your life, your goals, your training, your knowledge, and your skills are SO DIFFERENT to all of your competitors, so why are you comparing your prices and pricing yourself on theirs?

You know that bottom line I told you to work out right back on day one? Let’s use that to build our service menu.

As a business owner, and someone wanting to grow and evolve and keep your doors open, you NEED TO dig a bit deeper and actually understand your per hour, per minute and per person running costs. From there, we need to add in your product costs into each service and add your profit. THEN and only then will we have your service pricing.

I get it, it’s complex, but it’s NECESSARY. I could bet you any money that if we sat down together and worked through my pricing method, you would be in shock horror about some of your services and their lack of profitability. More often than not, when I do this breakdown with my clients, more than 30% of their services aren’t profiting. What that means is you’re not even working for free; you’re PAYING YOUR CLIENTS to have your services.

A completely unsustainable business model.

Day Seven – BEAST MODE!

Here we go with an actual sales strategy… every single person comes to your business because they have a PROBLEM. If their hair, face, body, life was perfect, they wouldn’t be coming to you. Once you get your head around that you’ll fly through this.

When your customers enter your business, they are ready for your advice, your knowledge, and the services that they have booked for, but is what they have come in for actually what they need? Do they need something else or together? Do they need extra services and products?

Example - client has booked for a half head highlights but she’s almost top-deck because her underneath hasn’t been foiled for 6 months, she can’t see the back of her head so does she even know how bad it is? Have you grabbed the mirror and showed her? “Babe, I think we are well overdue for a full head of highlights today, let me show you the back of your hair” and then actually show her.

I get that we work within time constraints, but can you fit in those extra highlights? Can someone else on your team help you? Can you move your next client a few minutes later? Can you just foil at super speed?

That’s easily $100 upgrade for most salons. Let’s say you can upgrade $50 for 5 clients that week = $250 per week = $13,000! That’s not something to turn your nose up at! Go deeper, ask more questions, get to the bottom of what they really want and make that happen.

There is so much more to increasing your wealth and bettering your business, but I hope I helped you today. If you would like a copy of our extended e-book ‘88 Days of Growing Your Wealth’ get in touch with me, @CaitlynMenzelCoaching

Build that Winning Team Culture!

By David Watts

So many conversations with salon owners are centred around increasing their team members performance, how they can motivate their teams and how they can keep them satisfied in their work. In my experience, getting the culture right will make all the difference. In fact, establishing and maintaining a positive culture in your salon will not only create a thriving team it will also provide the platform for a successful business too.

On the other hand, a negative culture can lead to disengagement, mistrust, and conflict, ultimately obstructing productivity and achievement. When there is a toxic or unhealthy culture, team members may feel unsupported, undervalued, or even marginalized. This can lead to disengagement and a lack of motivation, as well as increased turnover and decreased job satisfaction.

In a negative culture, team members may be more likely to engage in unhealthy or unproductive behaviours, such as gossiping, blaming others, or avoiding accountability. This can lead to a lack of trust and communication and can ultimately undermine the ability of the team to work effectively together and achieve shared goals.

Unfortunately, a negative culture generally has a ripple effect, impacting the salon more broadly. It may lead to a loss of reputation, difficulty attracting and retaining talent, or worse impact on the delivery of your client journey.

Therefore, it’s essential for leaders to be proactive in creating a positive and healthy culture, and to address any negative behaviours or attitudes that arise quickly and confidently.

Culture is more than just a buzz word; it is an important piece when it comes to leading your team. When your culture is aligned with your team’s values, attitudes, and behaviours, it can have a profound impact on their performance, motivation, and job satisfaction.

Leaders who promote open and honest communication, provide opportunities for feedback and growth, set clear expectations, and model positive behaviours themselves will help to create a productive, positive, and thriving culture that benefits everyone involved.

Four reasons to focus on your culture:

1. Team Retention: When your salon has a positive culture, your team members are more likely to stay with you. This is because a positive culture fosters a sense of belonging and connection, making employees feel valued and appreciated. Retaining talent is important because it can save you time and money on recruitment and training.

2. Improved Customer Experience: A positive salon culture can also improve the

experience for your customers. When your team are happy, engaged, and motivated, they are more likely to provide excellent customer service. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction, loyalty, and positive reviews.

3. Increased productivity: When your salon has a positive culture, your team are more likely to feel motivated to work hard and be productive. A positive culture can also create a sense of camaraderie among your team, leading to better collaboration and results.

4. Better communication: In a positive salon culture, employees feel comfortable speaking up and sharing their thoughts and ideas. This can lead to better communication and problem-solving, which can benefit the entire team.

Where to Begin?

Here are a few tips to help you improve the culture in your salon:

Clarify your salon’s values

Make sure you have a clear understanding of what your salon’s values are. This will help everyone understand what is important to your business and what behaviours are expected.

Consider what values are important to you and your salon. This could be things like respect, teamwork, customer service, innovation, or creativity. Involve your team in the process of defining your salon’s values. Ask for their input on what they think is important, what they’d like to see from the salon, and what they value in their work.

Once you have your list of values, communicate them to your team, customers, and the wider community. Display them prominently in your salon and on your website, and make sure everyone understands what they mean and why they are important.

Encourage open communication

Communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, whether it is between individuals or groups of people. Without

effective communication, misunderstandings, conflicts, and mistrust can arise, leading to a toxic culture.

Create a safe space where your team members feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, ideas, and concerns. Encourage open communication and actively listen to your team’s feedback.

Better communication leads to better collaboration, which results in improved productivity. When people are on the same page and have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, they can work more efficiently towards achieving their goals.

your salon. This means living them out in your actions and communication.

Use your values to guide decision-making within your salon. Whenever you face a challenge or have to make a decision, ask yourself how each of your values can help guide you.

Actively listen to your team members and provide them with the resources and support they need. Keep your promises and follow through on your commitments. This will help build a reputation for reliability and consistency.

Invest

in your team’s professional development

Show your team that you value their growth and development by providing opportunities for training, education, and skill-building. This will help them feel more invested in their work and more confident in their abilities.

Identify the skills and knowledge gaps in your team. Consider the current and future needs of your salon, as well as the individual goals of your team members. This will help you determine what training and development opportunities are needed

You can also encourage your team members to share their knowledge and expertise with each other.

Recognize and reward good work:

Celebrate your team’s achievements and contributions, whether it’s through verbal recognition or more tangible rewards like bonuses or promotions. This will help create a culture of positivity and appreciation.

It is important to establish clear performance goals for your team. This will help them know exactly what is expected of them and enable you to measure their performance accurately.

Lead by example

As a leader, your behaviour (and attitude) will set the tone for your team. Make sure you model the values you’ve established for

Improving your salon culture is an ongoing process, but by focusing on these tips, you can create a positive and supportive work environment that will benefit both your team and your business.

It is important that you prioritize creating a positive and supportive environment for your team, as this can set the tone for all other aspects of leadership in your salon.

Something to leave with

Practice makes perfect, and the more you work on building the culture in your salon the better you and your team will get at it, it takes time and effort. By focusing on culture and practicing regularly, you can build a strong and supportive team that will benefit both your salon and team members.

A thriving salon with an excellent team and exceptional service will build a positive reputation in the community. This can lead to more clients, and more repeat business.

David. XoX

A salon owner and support coach on Team Chrissy – The ZING Project. David has a diverse background in sales, marketing and operations and is passionate about improving the professionalism of the industry.

Contact David via email davidsc@zingcoach.com.au or DM on Instagram @davidwatts_zing

5 Steps to Becoming a $1 Million Salon!

By Larissa Maclemen

I know, from experience, that this is all possible, but the HOW isn’t always clear.

I remember so many moments, early on in my Salon Ownership, when things wouldn’t go right. A team member would leave, clients wouldn’t rebook, retail sales were dwindling, and I really could go on! It was tough and defeating wondering if that successful moment would ever arrive.

For me, success meant becoming a Million Dollar Salon. This was my goal... something tangible upon which I could measure my Salon’s achievements. Making this happen, however, during that time, was another story…

Skip forward a few years, and I achieved my goal. Finally, when I looked at the Salon’s monthly results, they were numbers that would add up to a Million Dollars a year. I remember it like it was yesterday!

I was relieved and surprised, but not surprised at the same time... because I always knew it was possible.

Now, I want the same for you. Knowing how to achieve my goal of a Million Dollar Salon from the beginning, would have saved me a

lot of heartache along the way- and now it’s your turn to achieve that (hopefully without the added heartache!). I have 5 key strategies that I believe will help you achieve the dream of true success, just as I did.

Let’s take a look...

#1 Attract Ideal Clients:

Now, I know the goal with Salon Marketing is to promote your salon so you can get bookings flooding in…, therefore, we aim to market ourselves everywhere and to everyone. But I believe niching down is much more effective in the long run. Focus on targeting your ideal client. This is someone who raves about your business and is incredibly loyal. That type of client every salon needs to be a success. Ideal clients are like friend groups. When it comes to my friends, I’m much more of a quality-over-quantity person. I’d rather have fewer friends who care about me than a whole bunch of meaningless connections; the ones who care are going to support my growth. And, so, guess what? The same applies when it comes to your salon! Instead of trying to connect with a larger clientele, focus on fewer. This means you will have more energy and time to invest in those special clients which will make the relationship even stronger. As a salon owner,

you want strong relationships with clients as that’s what will not only keep them rebooking but will also entice them to share their amazing experiences with others. When it comes to your Salon’s Marketing, ensure it has a strong and clear message that’s targeted toward your Ideal Client. You should be speaking ‘to her, all the time, every time.

#2 Be the Expert

The second thing you’ll need to nail if YOU want to be a million-dollar salon is being the expert. Now that you’ve niched down and attracted your ideal client, you want them to choose YOU over all the other salons out there. Not just because there were no other Salons left to go to, but because you were the known expert in your area of specialty. The goal is for your ideal client to know that you are the best in the biz, at what you do (whatever that may be).

So how do you let them know this? Well, the answer is to be clear on what you offer and how it matches the client’s desires. Talk them through this to reassure them that they are in the right hands.

At the end of the day, people want:

1. To trust your skills and expertise

Being a Salon Owner is not always sunshine and rainbows… the reality of running a salon is tough, and success doesn’t happen overnight. As a Salon Owner, you probably have dreams of building a Rockstar Team, achieving a life of freedom and profit, and having strong relationships with clients.

2. Know you can look after THEM.

If you can show people that they can both trust you and that you can look after them, then it should be easy for them to decide if you are the right salon for them.

#3 Hero Service

Now that your client knows who you are and you know who she is, choose that special service specifically for HER… this is your hero service.

You should have 1 Hero Service that is going to make the client trust and LOVE you even more! If you’re having trouble knowing what your Hero Service should be, then think of it this way:

Your Hero Service should take everything that your Ideal Client wants and needs, and then make it come true for her in one service, leaving her assured that you can provide the results she loves, every time she visits you. Because your Hero Service is designed specifically around your Ideal client, you can feel confident that it’s going to attract more of this type of client... the one you know and love.

Here are 3 things a hero or signature service needs to be.

1. Easy to teach your team.

2. More people doing it without years of training.

3. Your Ideal Client wants and needs it.

So, what will you pick as your signature service?

#4 Follow the Ideal Employee Pathway

It’s time to attend to your team. Your team is the one who may be looking after your clients, so you need to choose them wisely. The question is… how do you create the ideal team for your Salon?

1. When you can’t find qualified staff, grow your own! Yes, I’m talking about training them yourself.

2. Get clear on WHO you want in your team. Don’t make them all the same as you, differences will challenge you and be good for the growth of your business.

3. Employ those that you can train from some sort of basic grounding. Don’t employ people who you have to train how to be a basic human, but ones who are capable of reaching your standards!

4. Employ in advance. Advertising and inductions take time so always consider this when looking to grow your team. Often Salon Owners are hiring too late, you should be hiring before the pain of “we need another team member asap!” kicks in

#5 Progression plan

My last strategy to become a $1 million salon is to have a progression plan for every team member. A super clear pathway from the beginning to the end so your team knows where they are going.

You want your team to have your Salon at the center of their future. So, be a step ahead of them and lay things out so they have a clear vision for the future with your salon, rather than doubting their minds. Take care of your team and show them you consider their futures!

Creating this environment will make them eager to upskill and progress; it will give them the career clarity that they won’t get at the salon down the road. After all, if you want to build a rockstar team, you have to pave the way for them to shine.

So, now I want you to take these 5 strategies and NAIL them before trying anything else in your Salon.

Hold tight… if you need something new and exciting to work on, then rearrange the furniture in your house, and don’t take it out on your Salon (I know we are all guilty of this). When you get to the million-dollar mark, then I give you permission to go and do whatever else you like.

Macleman is the CEO & Founder of the Salon Owners Collective Podcast- The Salon Owners Collective Podcast Website- www.salonownerscollective.com Facebook- Salon Owners Collective Instagram- @salonownerscollective

Larissa

Why Your Manager Isn’t Succeeding.

By Kym Krey

Becoming a manager for the first-time can be both an exciting and challenging experience. You’ve dreamed of this promotion; you’ve worked hard for the role and the pay rise you’re expecting to come with it, and now it’s finally here.

In your head, this is how you’re expecting it to go: Your new position is announced to the team, and after much celebration and congratulations, your new staff (formerly work buddies) are enthusiastic and supportive, give you their best effort and together, you achieve outstanding results and earn wonderful bonuses and commissions and live happily ever after.

After all, why wouldn’t you be successful? You’ve been the highest performer in the salon for years! You always hit your target. This is going to be a breeze.

Fast-forward 6-12 months, however, and the reality often looks very different.

Concerningly, studies have shown that over 50% of all first-time management promotions are considered unsuccessful. That means your former high performer, who showed all

the potential in the world, just isn’t getting the job done.

You know it, they know it, the team know it…. and stress is building.

• They’re hitting their individual target, but their staff are not

• They’re working harder than ever, but the business is far from profitable

• Morale, which used to be at an all-time high, is now disturbingly low

• They’re coming in early to do additional management tasks, then working flat-out on the floor and staying back late to fix up tasks that their staff didn’t do This really doesn’t seem to be working out.

What’s even more concerning is that research shows 1/3 of these new emerging managers, end up leaving your business, exhausted, disillusioned, and with their self-worth in tatters.

How could it all go so wrong?

This devastating failure rate is attributed to several common factors:

Incorrect Assumptions

The biggest issue of all is the assumption that because they could do it, they can get others to do it- and these are two very different skillsets requiring two very different mindsets and approaches. Technical skill doesn’t necessarily transfer to management skills.

Lack of Training and Support

We give them the promotion, along with their new targets.. and leave them to it!

I mean… we’re paying them to manage the place, we shouldn’t have to hold their hand, right? Wrong!

You see, the moment they stepped into a management role, the game completely changed. What they excelled at before

doesn’t help them now. It doesn’t matter how much they can personally generate now; they’re measured on what they can get other people to achieve…. and as anyone who’s done it knows, that’s not as easy as it sounds!

When you transition a staff member into a management role, and often when you also employ a supposedly ‘experienced’ manager to fill the position, you’re going to need to be prepared to support them into the expectations of the role over time.

You see, most new managers expect that their role is all about ‘being responsible’ and doing tasks. That they’ll be paid a higher salary to ‘be in charge’ and to get a few management tasks done, like complete reports, do trainings and occasional team meetings.

The value of any manager, however, and the skill that is almost never there at the start, is the ability to grow people to their best. That’s what a manager is paid to do, but very few can achieve….. without support. It can be learned over time, but it’s not automatic or ‘just common sense’.

Without this investment of additional knowledge in how to manage others, plus supporting them as they implement through trial and error, make mistakes and learn, many struggle to make the transition from individual employee to manager…. and leave in anger!

Inability to Set Expectations and Instil Accountability

“I did it. Why can’t they?” “I shouldn’t have to tell/remind them!”

The thinking that causes us so much frustration….

Without the ability to know and explain their expectations to each member on their team, coupled with the skill of holding an accountability conversation when those expectations aren’t met, your manager is doomed to the inevitability (and exhaustion) of doing everything themselves…. and that’s a one-way ticket to burnout!

“I tell them, but they don’t do it!” So, what happens next?

An inexperienced manager will tell themselves it’s just quicker if they do it. No one else does it like they do. Their staff won’t listen anyway.

Remember: the objective is results through others! We can’t do it all ourselves.

Lack of Confidence in Communication

The most important tool a manager has are the conversations they have with their people:

• Conversations that inspire with their vision for the business

• Conversations that build relationships and trust

• Conversations that correct problems and address issues early

• Conversations that define boundaries

• Conversations that acknowledge and reward

• Conversations that give feedback, guidance, encouragement and direction

These often don’t come naturally to new managers, particularly if they haven’t experienced them personally from previous leaders. When a manager doesn’t comfortably see themselves as an authority figure or lacks the confidence to speak, they’ll let important things slide, allow small things to become big things and allow poor performance, unacceptable habits and bad behaviours to become embedded in your culture.

Great managers are great communicators and with the right intentions, this skill can be learned.

Lack of Delegation Skills

The key is to get things done through our people, but there’s a big difference between delegating and abdicating!

• Delegating is a process of explaining the task that needs to be done, as well as the ideal outcome (what it looks like when done well). Then it requires observation and monitoring, stepping in to correct errors or misunderstandings and staying with that person until they can successfully complete the task consistently without supervision

• Abdicating is “I need you to do this”, then walking off, expecting it to be done and getting frustrated when it’s not.

Successful delegation demands an understanding that the person you’re training is likely to have less experience than you and so, will need clear, step-by-step methods and instructions designed for their level of understanding.

Former high performers are notorious for having all the knowledge in their head rather than captured in clear systems, and giving vague, general instructions because they assume that everyone ‘just knows’ what they know. Very frustrating for an enthusiastic but less experienced employee!

Lack of Self Awareness

Leadership is the greatest self-development game of all. At some point, it hits you like a brick that your team are literally following your lead. They are the greatest mirror for your strengths, and they’ll show you loud and clear where the gaps are in your systems, what you ignore, avoid or constantly put off and what you’re just not good at yourself!

Inexperienced managers tend to blame their staff. “This generation just doesn’t want to work!” “I’ve told her how to do it. I’m not sure what else I’m expected to do!” etc.

Great leadership requires you to evolve; to become aware of how you communicate, how you impact others, how you influence your team’s performance and behaviour. Whilst your focus as a leader must be all about them, their outcomes are all about you. You’ll need to step outside your comfort zone and learn to lead not how you prefer, but in the way that brings out the best in them.

Results reflect relationships and great relationships require maturity and selfawareness.

Lack of Time Management Skills

The inability to prioritise the ‘Big Rocks’ or the most crucial responsibilities sees your

manager ‘never having enough time’ to get everything done. What this really means is either:

• The tendency to be easily distracted by ‘bright, shiny objects’ and tasks they prefer to do, or

• The inability to say ‘No’ to things that are requested by others but are not the best use of their time.

It’s often said that time management is more about what you’re prepared to say ‘No’ to. Busy managers rarely get to the bottom of their To Do list… but it’s not about getting everything done. It’s about getting the right things done. The things that really ‘move the needle’ and get you closer to your goals are the things that must get done first.

Lack of Feedback

Just like any of your staff, your manager isn’t going to get it right the first time, so your feedback and guidance is essential. They need to know what you expect and how they’re doing in your eyes. They need to know where they’re falling short or exactly what they need to do differently to get it right for you.

1. “Here’s what I need”

2. “Here’s what I’m getting”

3. “Here’s the gap”

4. “Here’s what I need you to do differently”

5. “So I know that I’ve explained that clearly, repeat back to me what you’ve understood”

When delivered in the right way, hearing that they’re not yet getting it right is far better than being left in the dark, and having to constantly guess if you’re upset with them every time you seem unhappy!

Conversations are the tools you use to grow people…. including your manager.

Remember That They’re Not Where You Are

Keep in mind that you’re likely to have a lot more experience at this stage of your career than they have in theirs. Things that are obvious to you may not yet be obvious to them. What they need is a great mentor and clear direction and encouragement. Whilst exciting, this can be a scary and stressful time for them as they deal with new struggles and doubts.

Your role is to be the bridge between where they are now and where you need them to be.

The payoff? A capable, dedicated rightarm person with your best interests at heart who handles the day to day running of your business, so you can focus on other things.

Priceless!

Kym Krey, The Salon Mentor, is a specialist industry business mentor helping business owners and managers nail the skills of leadership and managing their team for exceptional results. She’s the gal you’ll want in your corner when things get tough or when you’re ready to take that next big leap. Get in touch @kymkrey or grab your FREE leadership tools and resources at www.kymkrey.com.au

The Art of Brand Building!

By Phil Smith, UK

For

success

There’s no ignoring the global cost of living crisis and I’d be amazed if running your business isn’t significantly more expensive now than it was last year. Perhaps you’ve put your prices up already to reflect that, or maybe you’re nervous about doing it.

Being able to get your clients to understand the value you provide is a stumbling block for many people and fear of someone ‘willing to do it cheaper’ can also prevent you taking a good, hard look at your price list. But do you really want to be that person doing it the cheapest? Or would you rather know what you’re worth and charge for it?

PRICE FOR PROFIT

When you price your services, you must price for profit, i.e., 10 to 15 per cent profit margin after your other costs have been absorbed. You can’t just rely on an annual inflation figure to set your prices. Analyse your cash flow and scrutinise every single thing that is a cost to your business. That’s the big stuff like rent, rates, and payroll but it’s also subscriptions, hospitality, staff incentives and rewards. In other words, don’t cancel the Christmas party, just plan ahead to make sure you can afford it. The objective is to get a true and honest picture. That always includes leaving enough in the budget to make sure your team are getting a fair reward too. It’s only when you know what you need to take that you can calculate what you need to charge.

CONTROL YOUR COSTS

There are costs that will be fixed but on closer inspection, you may discover areas where you can cut back (a word of caution though, beware of scrimping on small but important

details - more on that later). Being realistic about what it costs to provide the service you do means you can work back from there. Can you negotiate any of your fixed costs, such as rent, for instance? Landlords are struggling with rising costs too so negotiating longer term, but more affordable tenancies can provide them with secure tenants and you with certainty for your business.

Your stock should also be factored as a controllable cost. Hopefully you’re already using salon software to analyse what your salon uses and sells and therefore what your outgoings are on a monthly basis. Investigate and negotiate on your current deals with suppliers - are there discounts or incentives you could be benefiting from? Be rigorous about wastage at the back wash too and make sure your team aren’t pouring your profits down the drain.

WORK SMARTER

If the disparity between what you’re charging and what you need to earn is looking alarming, there are other options to explore before increasing prices exponentially. Visiting the salon should be a luxurious experience for your clients and nobody likes to feel rushed. But if your team is carving out an hour for each cut in this climate, you could be in the danger zone. When you switch an appointment time from one hour to 45 minutes and fit in an extra client, it goes without saying that you’ll take more in a day. I never cut corners with customer service, but time is money. It’s simple economics and when you run your salon in a streamlined way, it benefits every person in the team.

BECOME A BRAND

Turning your salon from a business to a brand is the fast route to confidently charging your true worth. If you need convincing, have a think about what makes a designer bag different from a high street one. By raising the perception of your business, you can focus on your value and set your prices with confidence. That means being the salon in town that everyone talks about, employing the best team and offering a customer service that is worth every cent. When you go the extra mile or provide that bit more, people are far less likely to question the price tag. If you haven’t got a brand strategy, now is the time to start planning one.

GIVE MORE WHEN YOU CHARGE MORE

If and when you put your prices up, communicate it clearly and confidently. Paying more is a fact of life you can’t avoid, whether it’s for a loaf of bread, a tank of fuel or a head of foils. However, I strongly believe that when you charge more, you should give more. Could it be that you throw in a conditioning treatment for every client, a complimentary head massage, better coffee in the machine, a nicely designed drinks menu at every chair, freshly laundered gowns that smell amazing, flowers from the market on the reception desk. All relatively low cost but their perceived value is priceless. In the words of that famous haircare slogan, why should you charge more? “Because you’re worth it.”

the next in our series of masterclasses, one of the biggest business

stories in British hairdressing, Phil Smith asks, are you charging what you’re worth?

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Lose the no-shows and gain loyal clients!

By Tamara Reid

The myths and truths about charging deposits and cancellation fees. Noshows and last-minute cancellations have to be some of the worst things about our business. We all understand that emergencies happen, but those flaky customers who think nothing of cancelling 10 minutes before their appointment or don’t show up at all? Well, they’re enough to have us silently screaming into the stock cupboard. We say no more!

One thing you need to run your hair business like a pro is a system that puts you in control and helps enable you to deliver an amazing client experience.

One of the best built-in features that I love of Timely Booking Software is TimelyPay. It’s our very own payment solution and the easiest way to take online payments and deposits. And there’s nothing like deposits to kick noshows to the kerb! With TimelyPay there’s no more hits to your cash flow, no more lost revenue, no more messed up schedules.

Instead, you’ll have an appointment book chock full of loyal, reliable clients who show up on time and spend more money. Here’s how.

No shows can cost your business up to

$2,500 a year.

The easiest way to take payments and deposits.

By charging deposits or cancellation fees, you can weed out unreliable clients and instead build a trustworthy client base. Because, as you know, clients are far more likely to attend an appointment if they’ve already paid a deposit or know they will be charged a fee for pulling out with less than the required notice.

Deposits

Simply choose a flat fee, or a percentage of the service that you wish to take as a deposit on booking. Then it’s up to you if you want to collect deposits only on specific treatments - for example treatments that take over an hour, or cost a cost $50+

Cancellation fees

Instead of taking a deposit, you may wish to charge a cancellation fee. With TimelyPay’s card capture function, you can safely save clients’ card details and charge an agreed fee

(which you can set out in your booking policy and tell your customers about upfront) if they’re a no-show or last-minute cancellation. That way you’re not left completely out of pocket.

Charging deposits can reduce your noshows by 55%

Sounds good, but I’m worried it’ll scare all my clients off.

There’s a lot of myths around what charging a deposit or implementing cancellation fees will do to your business. The good news is, it’s actually going to improve your business, and we’ve the research and stats to back that up. But we understand doing anything new is a bit daunting, so in the good old Timely way, we’re here to help.

Just go to gettimely.com/resources to check out the guides we’ve put together to help you reduce your no-shows, and set up your deposits and cancellation policies.

Businesses who turn on deposits see no drop in bookings over a 6-week period.

Stay safe and secure with Stripe. TimelyPay is powered by Stripe, a Payments Process Platform that meets the highest global safety and security standards for payment processing and card data storage. So, you can rest assured that your sensitive business data is safe with us.

Payment data is encrypted to protect from hackers and fraud, and we don’t store any credit card data – we follow strict Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) guidelines to keep your customers’ credit card information safe and secure.

What are the costs involved? Are there any fees?

No. When you’re a Timely customer, there are no additional costs for using TimelyPay, apart from the processing fees.

If you want to know more about Timely, TimelyPay and our FREE 14-day trial, find us at gettimely.com. We can’t wait to help boost your hair business and show those no-shows the door.

The 5 most common mistakes tenants make when negotiating with their landlords.

By Kelly Cunningham

Commercial Tenants are business owners that specialise in delivering their chosen product or service. Landlords specialise in leasing out their properties for the highest rent they can. Because Landlords specialise in leasing out property and Tenants do not, there is often an imbalance in information and power that leads to the Landlord gaining an unfair advantage over the Tenant.

Here are the five most common mistakes Tenants make when negotiating with their Landlords.

1. Always start with the MARKET RENT … NOT how much rent the Landlord wants. The lease renewal time is a natural break in the rental cycle for Tenants to reassess where the market rent actually is at that point. Naturally, the Landlord will be pleased if you just sign a renewal with a 10% increase in the rent.

So how do you measure “Market Rent”? You can think about this from a starting point of… “if your tenancy was vacant and available to lease on the open market, what sort of rent would the Landlord be chasing or what sort of rent would a Tenant be likely to pay? “ … this is the “Market Rent”.

For long standing Tenants, it is not uncommon to negotiate a rent reduction of 20% - 30% or more due to the automatic annual rental increases, moving the paid rent so far away from where the market rent actually sits.

Tenants often make the mistake of starting with what the Landlord is asking for. You should always start with the “Market” rent.

2. Do not concede to “CPI+” type of annual rent reviews.

For the longest time, annual rent reviews of CPI or CPI + X% were OK. The problem with this approach now, is that CPI is running at approximately 7-8%, which could result in an annual rent increase upwards of 10%.

The best result you could achieve on rent reviews are negotiating a 3% increase, but 4% is still OK and 5% at the outside, but do not agree to a CPI related rent increase.

Tenants often make the mistake of thinking CPI is fair, since it reflects the movement in a basket of typical goods at the supermarket. That may be so, but it is too much for your business to bear and is not reasonable as an ongoing annual increase in the rent.

3. Always research the market rent 3 - 6 months prior to taking up an option. An “Option” is a powerful tool, to secure long term tenure on a location and normally requires the Tenant to tell the Landlord that

they are staying, between 3 and 6 months prior to the expiry date of the lease.

Generally, the rent is the only negotiable item in an Option, for a lease to be renewed under the terms of the Option. All other terms and conditions of the lease will remain the same.

Tenants often make the mistake of telling their Landlord, that they want to take up the Option, before they have agreed with the Landlord what the rent is going to be.

To get the best result, write to your Landlord as soon as the 6 month notification window opens and ask them what their expectations are for the rent.

At this point you must have researched what the market rent is and be in a position to negotiate a new rental outcome prior to the window of time expiring.

Of course, if at that time, an agreement cannot be reached on the rent, establishing the market rent early also provides the business owner enough time to find an alternative solution.

Running out of time and leaving it 1 - 2 months before exercising your Option, severely disadvantages the Tenant and gives all the power in the negotiation to the Landlord, as they will be aware that you need to sign the paperwork at the Landlords asking rent and that they don’t need to negotiate.

4. Don’t blindly provide a “Personal Guarantee”.

A common mistake that Tenants make is putting the lease in their own personal name, rather than in a Pty Ltd company and believing that they are not personally liable.

When Tenants use their own name, it will sometimes say on the lease that a Personal Guarantee is not applicable. This doesn’t mean, that the Tenant is not personally responsible, this just means that it is automatic anyway, so there is no need to list it separately.

Most leases require the Tenant to provide a Bank Guarantee or a Security Deposit, as well as a Personal Guarantee.

A Bank Guarantee or Security Deposit is likely to be equivalent to about 3 months’ rent, sometimes less and this is a normally accepted practice.

A Personal Guarantee means that the business owner is personally liable for the obligations of the entire lease value until the end of the lease term.

If a Tenant puts the lease in a company name, the Landlord will often ask for a Personal Guarantee from the company directors. They often say that this is “standard”. Don’t fall for this, it is NOT “STANDARD”. Leases are regularly negotiated without personal guarantees. A Security Deposit or a Bank Guarantee is often adequate for the Landlord.

5. Don’t set yourself up for a huge bill at the lease end with a make good “Make Good” is the Tenants responsibility to remove all fixtures and fittings, removing all partitions and walls, removing all wiring back to the switchboard, capping off all plumbing, water and waste points, removing the flooring and any residual glue, removing the shopfront and / or the ceiling and lights and repairing any damage caused by the removal.

These clauses can be wildly unreasonable and favour the Landlord. A common mistake of Tenants is not negotiating this prior to the start of the lease.

At the beginning, it is all very exciting and you are not thinking about the end, but it is important to review this clause and agree on something reasonable with the Landlord, so that the Tenant is not left with a huge cost at the end for “Making Good” their tenancy.

This could be anywhere from $30,000 to $100,000 and beyond.

Your Leasing Co. specialises in representing Tenants and negotiating lease terms for Tenants. If you have any questions about negotiating the best outcome for your renewal and avoiding these costly mistakes, you can call Kelly Cunningham for a free, no obligation conversation and a free lease review on 0419 001 093.