#30 The 3 Phases of Salon Growth (And How to Know Where You’re At)
There comes a moment in every salon owner’s journey when the hustle just isn’t cutting it anymore.
You’re booked solid. You’re answering team texts during dinner. You’re trying to be the visionary and the receptionist and the janitor and the trainer, and let’s be honest, you’re tired.
You didn’t build this business to feel like an employee in your own company.
But scaling? That word sounds vague. Overwhelming. Maybe even expensive.
So let’s make it simple. Here are the 3 phases of salon growth we walk our students through and the shifts you need to make in each one.
Phase 1: Boot Strap Mode – You’re the Business
You’re the top producer. The team looks to you for everything. If you don’t show up, the money doesn’t either.
This phase is where most owners stay stuck the longest, because from the outside, it looks successful.
But here’s the problem: it’s not scalable. And it’s burning you out.
What to focus on:
Tracking your numbers
Raising your prices
Starting to build systems (even simple ones)
Getting one thing off your plate at a time
Phase 2: Stabilize and Systematize – Build the Machine
Now you’ve got a team, maybe even a manager, and you’re not the only one generating revenue.
Things are more predictable. But you’re still too involved in the day-to-day. And the minute you step away? Stuff starts slipping.
What to focus on:
Creating systems that are documented and repeatable
Training your team to take ownership
Building financial clarity (know your profit margins!)
Defining your role as the owner
Phase 3: Scale and Lead – Step into being the CEO & Visionary
You’ve got systems. You’ve got leadership. You’ve got a team that can function without you being in every appointment or every decision, or even being in the building.
This is where you reclaim your time. You start focusing on the vision. Maybe you open a second location. Maybe you launch a product line. Or maybe you just finally take the vacation to St. Lucia that’s been on your Pinterest board for years, without your phone blowing up.
What to focus on:
Strategic planning (not just reacting)
Leading your leadership team
Monitoring KPIs instead of doing the tasks
Protecting your energy and time
Before I sign off, I need to plug in a big ole PSA right here… None of this happens overnight. So, no matter where you feel like you are in your journey, give yourself grace and always celebrate how far you’ve come.
Then, with that perspective, take the time to read, reflect, and ask yourself:
What do I want to build—and what needs to change to make that happen?
You’ve got this.
Salt & Light,
Heather