It's never too late for a pr strategy

HJi's PR Expert Louise Woods says its not too late to establish a PR Strategy for the rest of the year.

Once you have a set of aims and objectives then it's time to brainstorm. A good idea is to break it down month by month. Think about events and significant days, what can you do to coincide with those that might work in the salon? Think in terms of how you could get involved in these events and use this as a good PR tool for your business linking in salon activities, press interest, social media and website activity.  

Approaching local events or festivals can also be a great way to raise your profile in the area - especially if they're already organised, and you simply have to slot in and support with hairdressing. 

For in-salon offers, involve your team in brainstorming innovative experiences. This could mean introducing new package deals, menu of services, and events to engage clients  - really anything either creative or tried-and-tested that will attract more footfall. You want to stand apart from the rest - so don't be afraid to go for the unusual either - and bear in mind  that the local press love a good photo opportunity. Consider clever tie ins too, themed refreshments and music - the possibilities are endless. 

Your product manufacturer will also have new product launches throughout the year which you may want to stock and use to shape your business strategy to boost your retail sales, commitment and rally the team. You can even turn retail into a competition in-salon and get everyone fired up.

Once you have brainstormed your ideas it's time to get serious and think realistically about what will actually work for you, your salon and what you will need to invest in terms of time and money. Break your plan down into salons activity, events, press and web/social media - this will make it easier to digest and also make it a lot simpler to execute.