Working long days is nothing new to hairdressers. In some cases the workweeks, especially around the holidays, can even seem endless.
Because of the competitive nature of the industry, salon owners find themselves having to offer more value to the customer in order to stay in business. More value for the customer, however, usually results in longer hours and more responsibilities for everybody during peak seasons.
These extended workdays and weeks can add stress to the work environment and cause strain for workers at all levels. To find balance without burning anyone out consider some of these ideas:
Expectations
Be up front about what you expect from employees as far as added responsibilities and number of hours worked in a day or week. As a salon owner or manager you want to make sure that employees clearly understand that you don’t expect them to work the same amount of hours that you do or to carry the same workload. They may otherwise assume that you do expect it, which may cause anxiety and resentment.
Lower Stress
Burnout can come from many sources from extended work hours to the stressful environment itself. Consider holding quick but regular staff meetings or informal huddles to allow employees to voice their concerns and to address the best way to handle stressful situations as a group.
Be Flexible
Flexibility in the work schedule can go a long way with staff. Be open to personal time off whenever possible during less busy times. This can be an extended lunch or leaving work early to run errands or even altering the work schedule to accommodate family responsibilities. Also, lead by example by taking time off yourself during slower business seasons and urge your employees to do the same.
Be Reasonable
To keep your valued employees, treat them well and pay them fairly. Staff can be very sensitive to an unbalanced workload where some employees work longer hours or on more difficult tasks than others. Be very sensitive to the issue and try to be as fair as possible.
Show Appreciation
When employees do an exceptional job, always acknowledge it. If nothing else, verbal acknowledgement is always appreciated and speaks volumes.
Regardless of how busy your salon is, remember that happy workers make for a happier work environment!
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