After a fantastic break in Chicago over Xmas – see my last blog – on 2 January I literally hit the ground running. We were open for business and despite some jet lag (I flew back from Chicago on New Year’s day), it was a full working day, with a full diary or ‘column’ as it’s called in the hairdressing trade. The next few days were all about clients, getting all the salon paper work in order – with December as one of our busiest times I fell a little behind on that – also it was about planning our year ahead. And it’s all change at SE.
We are now open Monday’s - so 7 days a week. We’ve had to do this to fit in all our lovely clients, as well as to spread the girls’ workload and give them decent time off.
On Monday’s I’ve returned to my hairdressing roots (no pun intended) and I am working as the girls’ assistant/ receptionist. I can’t say I’m the best assistant any more but I do think it’s important to go back to basics from time to time. My view as a business owner is that nothing should ever be beneath you, no matter what your title. It keeps you grounded and seeing things from other people’s perspective. That’s important.
And a lot more has been happening in the two months since the start of the new year.
We’re delighted to announce that Chelsea-jade is now qualified and she works a column on selected days. With all my apprentices, I’m honoured when they want to stay once they are qualified. When they qualify they go on the salon floor and all their work is supervised by myself or a member of the team. It’s so daunting being newly qualified and this set up helps give them confidence. I had the same set-up when I first qualified and it really helped me grow my confidence as a stylist.
In January I attended the St. John’s Ambulance two-day Mental Health course, which I feel is so important for every employer to do at some stage. It has given me a better understanding of the issues and particularly, the importance of communication. Again, I believe in being knowledgable in every area of a business. I really enjoyed the course and I learnt a lot. I’d recommend it.
It also showed me the importance of making time for me – something I didn’t get much of last year. So, I now have every Tuesday off and I’ve treated myself to one weekend off a month, so I can spend time with my friends and family – and go out out for an evening without having to worry about getting up for work the next day!
One of my personal goals has been to qualify under the Master Colour Programme, an advanced hair colouring qualification. It’s an intensive course which takes you through the techniques, knowledge and understanding you need to take hair colouring to another level. Here’s how Wella describe it: “Master Colour Expert by Wella Professionals has been designed for experienced colourists eager to improve their colour skills, attract more clients, offer new services and grow their business. It is our highest level of colour accreditation.” I started my journey on Monday 2nd March 2020 and I will graduate in November after my exams. I know it’s going to be tough but I’m determined to get through it. I’ll keep you all updated. Due to my course IM NOT EXCEPTING ANY NEW CLIENTS IN MY PERSONAL COLUME, this year.
As some of you already know, my assistant manager Kate left on Wednesday 5th February after 5 years and 10 months of service as my employee. Kate had been thinking about what she wanted to do career wise for some time now and we had regular talks about her journey ahead. Kate decided to leave the salon and split her time between freelance hair dressing and getting back into her mediumship. If you want to get hold of Kate please call the salon and we will be happy to give you her contact details. I’m NOT the kind of boss that withholds that information – I don't believe in it. We wish Kate all the best in her future.
Francesca is INCREASING her hours with us in June. She will be working Mondays 9-5pm, Tuesdays 9-4pm, Wednesdays 9.30 - 2.30pm and Sundays 8.30 - 4pm
Ella is branching out in her career - she is going to pursue her passion for barbering in a local barbers part time. DON'T PANIC as she is staying with us and will be working with us three days a week- Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Ella like Esta has been with me since she was a Saturday girl, so I'm naturally a little protective. But I'm pleased to help her expand and develop her skills where she wants to by going part time.
Alongside my MCP studies, all my team will be taking some serious courses this year. This means there will be times when individual members of the team are not available. I’ve written a separate blog about this giving the dates for each member of the team.
On a final note, I bought a diary this year that reads “Best year ever 2020”. I’m determined it’s going to be.
So these are our plans for 2020; what are yours? Remember: ‘A goal without a plan is just a wish’.
With love as always
Samantha