I’ve never approached this topic, but I felt it was time to lay my thoughts out there. I’ve been in the tanning industry for 14 years – as a bed-cleaner, salon sales associate, a multi-unit manager and now, I’m in the lotion manufacturing business. I’m in the people business, because in all reality, people don’t do business with businesses; people do business with people.
Throughout my tan biz career, there have been days when I’m just not in the mood – everyone has them. We show up to the salon in a T-shirt and no makeup, or for whatever reason, we’re just in a bad mood.
Work hard, be kind, and remember … good things come to those who hustle.
I’m certainly not giving anyone a pass on these behaviors. I was guilty of them, as well. I chalk it up to being young and not realizing that my outfit or my personal life had an effect on my job performance. But they do.
During my travels and countless salon visits over the last couple of years, I’ve seen a shift in employee etiquette. The no-call/no-shows have increased, the motivation level has decreased, and the entitlement mentality is at an all-time high.
When I started in the salons (back in the early 2000s), we fought for our spot at the counter, had a strict dress code, and were considered late if we showed up less than ten minutes early. We were held accountable for the money in the register and our customer interactions had to be flawless: kind, helpful and always with a smile.
Somewhere along the line, there has been a disconnect. In a time when the unemployment rate is around five percent, it is a privilege to have a job. There are people who would gladly take our place.
The following tips are for salon staff. I’m not saying I did it perfectly; but after 14 years, I’ve learned some things.
1. Always smile.
No matter what kind of day you’re having when you get to work, you are being paid to make other people feel good. Leave your problems at the door.
2. Social media.
These days, we share everything – our highs, lows and everything in-between. Keep this in mind when posting on Facebook, etc. about your job, the salon, your boss, co-workers and customers. These topics should be off-limits when it comes to online rants. Because at the end of the day, the only person who will look bad is you, and the people who see it may have been your future employers.
3. Show up! Be present! Help out!
One of my biggest peeves is the phrase, “That’s not my job.” Anything and everything needed from you is your job! Do you think your manager or those who are in positions you look up to responded to their superiors with “that’s not my job”? Even if tanning isn’t your forever job, don’t you want to be known for your amazing, helpful work ethic?
4. ATTITUDE.
If I could capitalize, bold and underline this any larger, I would! Your attitude toward customers, managers, co-workers and the growth of your salon is crucial for success. If I were hiring, I’d always choose the person with a friendly, willing attitude over one who can “sell a lot.” I can teach sales, but I can’t teach work ethic and attitude.
5. Dress code.
My, oh my! I’ve seen it all! UGGs and sweat pants, super short-shorts, ball caps, you name it! Let’s not forget: you’re selling an image and a brand. You would never walk into Nordstrom’s to buy a $100 bottle of perfume and see the salesperson behind the counter sitting on a stool in snow boots and a sweatshirt. Why is it any different when you’re selling a $100 tanning lotion? I was always told, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.”
Here’s the takeaway for this article: Work hard, be kind, and remember … good things come to those who hustle.
