Getting music in salons right every time

Music plays an integral role in creating the right ambience for your salon, says Sarah Mitchell, head of public performance, PPL. In any aspect of life, music can play a huge role in affecting our moods, transforming environments and building positive atmospheres that leave lingering impressions. Hairdressing salons are no exception. Customer experience is dependent on many contributing elements fusing together to create the ultimate experience at your salon, and music is a key factor. Not only does it contribute to the impression left on your customers, it also has a positive effect on the behaviour of your employees. A powerful tool when used correctly, playing the right music is vital in cementing a positive brand perception, and providing an enjoyable experience that will leave customers looking forward to repeat visits. Music is part of your salon brand Realising the potential music has in the salon environment, Carolyn Newman, operations director of Charles Worthington, acknowledges the importance it plays in the brand’s branches. “Our salon experience is core to the Charles Worthington brand, and we invest significantly in getting it just right. Music plays a vital role in creating the right ambience. In fact, we put music on the same footing as interior design with regard to importance. We take a lot of care to ensure that the music is pitched perfectly and is consistent across all our salons, to create a relaxing environment that embraces and indulges our client base. Think about client tastes “That means taking into consideration the time of day, the noise levels in the salon, as well as the tastes of our client base. You need to always remember that the music is for the clients. Don’t be so current it just appeases your team as this approach can really alter a client’s experience and can undermine a well-thought through salon brand.” Make sure you have the necessary licences Many salons spend hours choosing the right music to play to ensure they are providing the best possible experience to their clients. While this can be a lot of fun, some salons are unaware of the legal requirement to get permission from the performers and record companies to play their music. Being legally compliant is easily achieved by purchasing a music licence from both PPL and PRS for Music. In the interest of obtaining a music licence as simply as possible, music licensing company PPL has launched an online licensing facility, meaning that salon owners can purchase a licence from PPL at just the click of a button. Securing the necessary licence means salons can be free to select and play the music they want, leaving endless possibilities for creating a desirable ambience and the best client experience.   [Image: Rex Features]