Creativity and innovation in business will build a succesful salon

Creativity and innovation in business is the lifeblood of this industry, and the best, most successful salons are those that continually look for ways to diversify and innovate, says award-winning salon owner Jamilla Paul. New ideas don’t have to be completely original; they can be inspired by the actions of others from within hairdressing or without, but the goal of innovation is always positive change, to make someone or something better. But that creative energy mustn’t just go into producing fabulous hair or beautiful images. It must be directed into the business too. Behind all those beautiful images created by our amazing peers are lean and keen salon businesses always ready to embrace change.  And you need to keep that hunger, that flexibility. To let it slip edges you ever closer to self-detonation. A big part of my brand’s reputation locally rests on its willingness to innovate. Backed by my amazing team, I constantly look for new ideas to implement to keep the salon fresh and productive. Seven years ago I introduced the Picture Lounge @ Jamilla Paul, a photographic studio that functions independently of the salon but brings in a healthy stream of revenue. It also means I’ve got my own photographer on hand to capture images when I want. Last year I launched The Shave Bar @ Jamilla Paul, a male-oriented section within the salon which is all about great services for men, even those who were previously hardened barber fans. It focuses on the shave as a premier facial treatment and has proved a huge hit, leading to a lift in our male clientele of nearly 20%. One of the most lucrative elements of the Shave Bar is our gift vouchers, the ultimate present for those hard-to-buy-for gents. Shortly before The Shave Bar, I introduced Pop-up Boutique @ Jamilla Paul, run in conjunction with Treat Yourself Boutique – a local company that specialises in helping consumers capture celebrity looks. I don’t have to carry stock, but it means I can offer my clients a full makeover service without them having to leave the chair. Most recently, I’ve taken what began as a hairdressing technique developed for my stage work and turned it into service in the salon. The Jewel Bar @ Jamilla Paul is like an express blow dry bar except, instead of a shampoo and blow dry, the client has her hair dressed and decorated with jewels. It is the ultimate Saturday night styling for the glamorous fashionistas of Greater Manchester. Each innovation has created an energy that is contagious across the business. The team don’t get stuck in a rut of producing the same old, same old and I am able to diversify into new services that attract new clients, curious about our brand. And it’s brought us to the attention of our local media, with lots of coverage through the years that positions Jamilla Paul as the premier salon, but still accessible to a wide clientele. Last year, all our hard work resulted in victory at the local business awards, where I was named Business Woman of the Year. It vindicated my determination to stay hungry, alert and innovative.