Staff training in salons is essential for ensuring you are up to date with the newest trends and treatments. Proper training ensures that you keep customers happy with your top-notch service and that your salon operations and sales are optimized.

This article outlines the characteristics of effective salon training and provides training techniques that work for various kinds of salons.

What makes a salon training program effective?

Effective salon training programs should provide hands-on experience, not just theoretical instruction. Instructors should be experienced professionals and cover various techniques and skills, including haircutting, coloring, and styling, but also business management and customer service skills. Additionally, the program must provide opportunities for support and ongoing education after its conclusion. Finally, a good salon training program should accommodate different learning styles and be in touch with the latest industry trends.

Types of training techniques for salons

There is more than one effective way to train salon employees. Training techniques can be successful if trainees have the knowledge and support to put their ideas into practice. Staff training techniques can range from online tutorials to shadowing. The following are some staff training techniques that salon managers can use.

Classroom training

This technique involves inviting industry professionals to provide training on specific topics. These include customer service, product knowledge, and other aspects of a beauty salon. Classroom training is a structured learning environment where staff members can take notes and ask questions. It may be a traditional approach but can effectively teach foundational knowledge.

Shadowing

Shadowing works by allowing staff members to observe experienced staff at work. This training technique lets new hires see how things are done in the salon. It is the perfect way to acquaint newbies with their new workmates and environment and prepare them for more hands-on training experiences.

On-the-job training

On-the-job training is one of the most effective ways to train your employees. This technique involves pairing up senior staff members with new hires. They will work together as they go about their day. This technique takes “shadowing” to a whole new level by letting new hires practice and apply what they have learned. Experienced staff members will be able to pass on their knowledge and skills, while new employees will gain practical experience.

Online training

The advancement of technology has made the digital space a viable platform for employee training and onboarding. Online training programs allow new employees to learn at their own pace and from anywhere. It is especially helpful for staff members who may have scheduling conflicts. Webinars, online courses, and video tutorials are only a few examples of how online training can be conducted.
Check the Tyler Read's review of the most popular PT certifications for ideas about choosing the best suited training for your employees.

In-house training

In-house training sessions can be done at any point in the year, unlike shadowing and on-the-job training, which are usually done when there are new hires. This training method involves staff members training other employees on specific skills or techniques they have mastered. This showcases staff members’ expertise and helps the whole team build a sense of camaraderie and community within the salon.

Incentives

Offering incentives is a great way to motivate employees to participate in training programs. More than that, it encourages them to retain what they have learned. Examples of incentives include bonuses, prizes, and other rewards for finishing training sessions. Incentives help improve employee engagement and inspire them to learn more.

Ensuring success after salon training programs

In addition to employing various training techniques, it is also essential to ensure staff members have access to the resources they need. This can include information on the salon’s clients, products, tools, and facilities. Creating a positive and nurturing environment that encourages learning is equally important. This can be done by providing regular feedback and recognition for top performers.

Staff members and managers should share that ongoing development is an integral part of effective training. Employees should be given opportunities to continue growing in their respective roles. Opportunities like industry events, supplemental courses, and other professional development projects should be open to all.

Recap: Hosting successful salon training programs

Proper training is crucial to the success of any organization, beauty salons included. By combining classroom teaching, online tutorials, in-house training, shadowing, and on-the-job training, salon managers can rest assured that their staff is well-trained, motivated, and confident in their abilities. They can provide the best service to their clients through these training techniques. Incentives should be used to keep staff members interested. This, in turn, will boost salon operations and, ultimately, your company’s bottom line.

Learn more about how to optimize salon operations on Zoyya.