There are advantages and disadvantages of working in an independent salon or a group and it really depends on what's right for you. As an individual, each area of the market will suit or not suit depending on your aims and ambitions.
As recruitment specialists, when sourcing the most suitable locations for a stylist we need to highlight the differences generally between these two varying sectors of the salon industry. When considering your career options, there are invariably differences between the two, so here are some things you may want to think about when considering the type of salon environment you want to work in.
This is a generalisation as there are strengths and weaknesses in all businesses and we support both. The purpose of this blog is not to direct one way or the other, more to break down misconceptions, allowing you to make an employment judgement on the suitability of the vacancy for you personally.
INDEPENDENT SALONS
Invariably independents are situated in a location, which may be close to home and may offer a more flexible, tailored employment structure. The operation and structure of independents may also be more tailored towards the particular characteristics of the clientele. For example, this may involve later openings, closed Sundays or there may be more late evening openings. Additionally, the flexible nature of independents can also:
- Allow you more time per client
- Provide you with a more direct contact with the salon owner
- Provide a more tailored training programme based on the individual aspirations
- Mean your salary can be more negotiable with an independent salon owner
- Many independents carry fewer staff, which may mean they require a more flexible working pattern
- You may need to do your own shampooing, colour applications and colour removal, as there can be less people to perform these tasks
- Some independents may not have a training and development structure
- There may be fewer opportunities to develop your career as they have fewer locations, promotional and creative opportunities to develop your talents
Larger salon groups can offer more varied locations, which present you with opportunities to relocate whilst still maintaining employment status. They also normally maintain uniform hours of trading and can offer a range of benefits including some of the following:
- Structured career development programmes, strengthening areas of your trade which you may not feel quite so strong on
- Management training opportunities
- Art team / stage demonstration opportunities
- Large salon groups are generally sited in prime locations
- Benefit from the prestige of working with a prestige recognised brand within the industry
- Opportunities to purchase a franchise, allowing an ownership opportunity whist still benefiting from the support of a larger organisation
- Due to extended opening hours there may be more flexible working hours (evenings/weekends).
However…
- You would be expected to attend more competition/salon promotions, assisting in driving the brand forward
- You would be salaried within a more rigid salary range
- The working environment would be more structured
If you need any help in making the right career decision and then finding what positions are right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We will offer you impartial advise and with a wide range of career opportunities in both the independent and group sectors, we might have just what you’re looking for!
Just call us on 01202 253615, email info@atriumhr.co.uk and visit www.atriumhr.co.uk
Have a great week!
Ian Kent
The Atrium
T: 01202 253615 E: ian@atriumhr.co.uk W: www.atriumhr.co.uk
