Don’t just be a good boss, be a great boss!

What’s your company policy about ‘fun at work’?  
Do you believe in it?
Do you make it happen, or do you discourage it?

Research shows that a workplace that is seen as fun-loving generates enthusiasm.  Enthusiasm leads to increased productivity, better customer service, a positive attitude and significantly higher odds that your talented therapists will stay.  Most people want to have some light moments at work.  A boring, humourless, too serious work environment could send your star players searching for a better salon/spa to spend the majority of their waking hours!

So, as you think about the pleasant and enjoyable workplace that you have the power to shape, ask your staff what would make work more fun.   While employees seem to greatly appreciate being treated to elaborate outings, most report that it is the day-to-day work environment that matters most to them – it simply has to be enjoyable.

Funny makes money!
Having a happy staff will improve individual creativity, productivity increases, clients are more likely to give you repeat business if they can sense great atmosphere, so more money comes in……

How do you create a bond among therapists in your salon and increase the chances of deepening their loyalty?  There are lots of ways, for example:

Have open meetings on a regular basis
If employees feel they are being heard, they will feel a stronger connection to you and the group. Don’t be afraid of grievances – even if you can’t do anything to fix the problem, people feel better just having the opportunity to talk it out.

Encourage group outings
See it as a team activity

Give employees time to talk
Managers are often so worried about work not getting done that they discourage personal conversations among therapists – what they don’t seem to understand that these conversations help employees feel connected to each other.

Strong relationships at work are key to retaining your people.  Most of us want and need colleagues to work with.  Connections are a major reason therapists stay in a salon – their link will strengthen yours, and they are more likely to stay

I know you don’t want to hear this, but therapists will leave if they don’t like their boss, even when they are well paid, receive recognition and have a chance to learn and grow.  In fact, disliking the boss is one of the top causes of talent loss!

Have you ever worked for someone you didn’t like, who treated you badly?  Learn to assess whether or not you exhibit those behaviours and how often.  Then it’s about trying to change for the better.  Why?  To keep your talented therapists.

Think about your behaviour.  
Do you withhold praise?
Do you behave badly and give negative feedback?
Do you belittle staff in front of others?
Do you show favouritism and criticise constantly
Or,
Do you nurture ideas and nurture relationships?

And, what effect is your behaviour having on the therapists and staff who report to you?

We all have off days.  For some, it happens when we feel backed into a corner, too stressed or when someone just pushes our buttons. For others, ineffective behaviours have simply become habit.  Do you know how your employees view you and how does if affect their job satisfaction?  How many therapists have left you for a better boss?

You need a clear picture of how you look to others, so get honest feedback somehow.
Don’t just be a good manager and boss – be an outstanding boss, and your outstanding therapists will stay.

Are you happy with your management skills, or would you like to be a better boss?
Liz McKeon is a Business Coach specialising in the Beauty Salon Market.
Call us now on 086 386 1243 or check out www.lizmckeon.com