Introducing an extensions service to your salon

  Offering an extensions service in your salon makes great business sense, says Pete Statham, national sales manager, Balmain Hair. Here he offers some tips on how to successfully introduce extensions to your salon business.

• Make an appointment with several companies to discuss their product portfolio.
• Select a reputable extensions company offering high-quality products, accredited HABIA education and written guarantees on all products.
• Make sure you understand the cost for the set up and proposed location for the education programme.
• Depending on size of salon select two to three staff to specialise in extensions, ideally including the salon owner. This will enable him/her to establish the dos and don’ts.
• After qualification and the full education programme - promote the service throughout the salon . Ensure as many of the team as possible are wearing extensions to illustrate, colour, volume and of course length.
• Ensure services are included on all price lists and menu cards. Include under relevant headings in the salon menu. Use terms such as ‘ as a solution for every-day hair problems’ . Do not say 'hair extensions on application' which can alienate 90% of clients who think extensions are just for length.
• Encourage the team to talk with clients about the service and suggest change and solutions to problems, rather than waiting to be asked.
• Stock an amount of hair to create instant change. Don't wait for the client to ask before ordering.
• Always offer a detailed consultation as you would with any other service, and explain every aspect [f the process. Consultation books are offered from the top extension companies
• Aftercare is of the utmost importance - make sure the client understands the relevance and give details on all products .
• Always offer a follow up appointment three weeks after application to discuss any problems or added benefits.