A recent survey by Timely, a leading booking software platform for hair and beauty businesses, has delved into the behind-the-scenes struggles of salon owners across Australia and New Zealand. And, the results reveal some not-so-pretty truths.
Financial pressure and the fight for time
With more than 19,000 salon clients across ANZ, Timely surveyed its customer base to gain insight into the obstacles salon owners face today. The results are as illuminating as a good highlighter – 29 per cent of respondents ranked financial security as their top priority. Rising rents, higher wages, and the costs of everyday operations are eroding profit margins and leaving many owners struggling to keep their doors open.
Time management also emerged as a significant hurdle. For example, 32 per cent of business owners reported that they’re barely managing their schedules, with the constant need to balance bookings, manage staff, and engage with clients leaving little room for growth or creativity. The demands of running a business are putting an unprecedented strain on owners’ time, threatening to burn them out.
“We saw during the pandemic how much these businesses are loved and relied upon by the community. But now, behind closed doors, it’s tough,” shares Ursula Von Keisenberg, ANZ Managing Director of Timely. “Our survey allowed us to dig deeper into the daily realities of salon owners to ensure we’re aligning our services with what they need.”
Smart solutions to help beauty businesses thrive
Timely’s dedication to understanding and indeed overcoming these unique challenges is a testament to its commitment to supporting the hair and beauty industry beyond just bookings. Through tools like automated scheduling, client communication, and marketing prompts, Timely aims to alleviate some of the administrative burdens. Salon owners who use online booking typically see 14% more bookings than those who don’t, with 30% of all bookings now made online. These seemingly small tools make a big difference, freeing up owners to focus on what matters most: building relationships and crafting client experiences.
Yet, the survey showed that not everyone has embraced automation. “We provide a system that automates booking, staffing, and payments, allowing owners to redirect time to client satisfaction, yet some hesitate to adopt automation,” says Von Keisenberg. For those who have embraced it, the results speak for themselves – they’re filling more bookings and discovering new ways to engage their clients, all without the burden of admin tasks.
Building reputation and client loyalty
Timely’s study also found that reputation management, coupled with customer loyalty are top priorities. A quarter of the respondents expressed a need to understand how to better build trust with clients and stand out in a crowded market. Timely ambassador Amy Hembrow, owner of SSKIN Cosmetic and Skin Clinic, emphasises that it’s essential for salons to create unique experiences to retain clients. “As a clinic owner, we’ve learned that delivering a full experience – from the first moment clients walk into the follow-up aftercare – is key to building loyalty,” she says.
Salon owners understand that strong reputations foster loyal relationships, and with over 25,000 staff in Timely-supported businesses, the platform empowers owners to keep their brands reputable and trusted in their communities.
From data to driving success
For Timely, this survey isn’t just about gathering data – it’s about evolving their software and services to address these real-world challenges. “Timely is here for the long haul, and we’re committed to providing the tools and support needed to empower our customers,” says Von Keisenberg. By offering resources that streamline daily operations, Timely helps owners preserve their creative energy and continue doing what they love.
Ultimately, through these insights, Timely is committed to supporting an industry that has faced many challenges and is still healing. In an age where people cherish beauty and hair services for their personal touch, Timely’s survey highlights the importance of building a sustainable future for these beloved businesses. Whether through enhanced booking solutions or resources for reputation management, Timely is giving salon owners the tools they need to stay afloat – and thrive – beautifully!
For more about how Timely can support your business, visit gettimely.com.