Could you be named male grooming salon of the year?

This year sees HJ's British Hairdressing Business Awards introduce a new category; Male Grooming Salon of the Year, sponsored by Andis. If you're thinking of entering, here's what you need to know.

You don't have to be a barbershop to enter

This category is open to all barbers and salons that cater for male clients, so if men's hair is your thing, this is the category for you - even if you have female clients too.

We want to hear all about your business

As this is the business awards, make sure you send us plenty of information about why your men's hairdressing business is doing well, with the facts to back it up. This isn't a creative competition - but don't worry, HJ's Barber of the Year will be back at Salon International 2015, or you could consider entering Men's Hairdresser of the Year.

You need to have been open for at least two years

We need to see the annual turnover and gross profit of the salon for the last two financial years, so make sure you've been and up running for long enough.

Fill out the form in full...

Make sure you read the entry form in full and provide information for all of the criteria that it asks for. Judges want to see numbers and statistics to back up your claims, so make sure you can give evidence of how well you're doing.

... But make it personal

It's not all about the facts and figures! Most of all, judges want to hear your story and why you're so proud of your salon. Photos of the salon, the team and your happy clients are all encouraged, as are testimonials from your well-groomed regulars.

Give us some detail

Introduced a new men's menu? Got specialist decor in a separate area to make guys feel at home? Done a really great email campaign? Spent two days on an intensive wet-shave course? Any examples of interesting things you've done in the salon which make you stand out should all be included - this is your chance to shout about all the stuff you're doing well!

Listen to the sponsors

Andis are the sponsors of this category and have some wise words for what they'll be looking out for. "Be confident, be yourself, and don’t be afraid to take some risks," says Andis vice president of marketing, Karen Formico. "Most competitions based on talent and artistry have somewhat subjective criteria upon which you are judged. Find a way to let your talent break out of the crowd; your uniqueness may raise eyebrows, create discussion, but certainly won’t be overlooked."

Ready to apply? The entry form is here and we'd love to hear from you!