Running a successful salon today isn’t just about offering great haircuts, manicures, or spa treatments—it’s also about getting noticed online. With salons everywhere investing in digital marketing, standing out from the crowd has become essential. If you’re a salon owner looking to fill up your appointment book and build long-term client relationships, this blog is for you.
1. Claim And Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Whenever a potential client searches “salons near me,” one of the first things they’ll see is your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).
- Claim or create your profile on Google Business.
- Include your salon’s name, address, phone number, website link, and working hours.
- Add high-quality images of your salon and services.
- Highlight reviews from satisfied clients—social proof drives credibility!
When optimized correctly, your Google Business Profile can help boost your visibility locally and attract nearby clients through the door.
2. Build A Clean, Mobile-Friendly Website
Your website isn’t just an online brochure—it’s the hub of your digital presence. Plus, over 60% of website traffic comes from mobile devices, so a mobile-responsive design is non-negotiable.
- Online booking capabilities for convenience.
- Service menu with clear pricing.
- High-quality photos of your past results.
- “About Us” page to share your salon’s story.
Make it easy for clients to learn about your business, trust your work, and make a booking—all in a few clicks.
3. Create An Instagram-Worthy Feed
Instagram is the platform for businesses in the beauty industry. Visual content thrives here, making it a perfect portfolio for your salon's creativity.
- Showcase transformations with before-and-after posts.
- Use trending hashtags like #hairstyles, #nailsalon, or your city’s name (#SeattleSalon).
- Post Instagram Reels—it’s currently the fastest-growing format for engagement.
Don’t forget to post consistently and interact in the comments to build your audience!
4. Leverage Facebook For Local Advertising
Facebook has sophisticated targeting to ensure your ads reach the exact clients your salon needs.
- Run a promotion for first-time visitors (e.g., “Get 20% off your first visit!”).
- Use location-based targeting to focus on people within a 10-15 mile radius of your salon.
- Include eye-catching images or video clips that highlight your work.
With a modest budget, Facebook ads can work wonders for bringing in local clients.
5. Encourage Online Reviews
93% of consumers read reviews before trying a local business, and glowing reviews can sway hesitant clients to choose your salon.
- Ask clients to leave a positive review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook.
- Offer a small incentive for reviews, like $5 off their next service.
- Respond to all reviews (positive or negative) to show you care.
A solid reputation online will boost trust and encourage more bookings.
6. Use Email Marketing To Stay Connected
Regular email updates help you retain clients and encourage repeat visits.
- Share monthly specials or discounts.
- Offer sneak peeks of new services or products.
- Send personalized birthday discounts to clients.
Tools such as Mailchimp or Constant Contact make it simple to manage email campaigns and track how they’re performing.
7. Share Tutorials And Tips On YouTube
Video content drives high engagement, and YouTube allows you to establish yourself as a trusted expert in the beauty space.
- Haircare tutorials and styling tips.
- Q&A videos addressing common client questions.
- Behind-the-scenes vlogs from your salon.
While creating videos may take extra time, they provide long-term value and build strong client loyalty.
8. Offer An Exclusive Referral Program
Happy clients are your best ambassadors, and a referral program gives them an extra nudge to spread the word.
- A discount on their next booking for every referral they bring in.
- Gift cards or free add-ons (like a deep conditioning treatment) as rewards.
Promote your referral program on social media, via email, and at your salon.
Download our guide to learn more!
