We all know, either from first-hand experience or via media coverage, how hard New York has been hit with COVID-19. This week we speak with Melissa McLoughlin owner of MB Studio Salon & Spa in Rochester, NY. Since the time of this recording, hair salons in certain regions have been able to reopen in NY as part of phase 2 announced May 29.

We discuss the impact of COVID-19 on Melissa's business, the impact on her staff, and how the salon experience will change for clients upon re-opening. In addition, we take a look at the challenges of knowing when to go from a sole proprietor to hiring your first staff member...along with the challenges that go along with expanding your team.

Here's a quick overview of what we covered:

The COVID-19 Impact in NY

• Showing up consistently during uncertain times
• The slap in the face that are the high level of restrictions to reopen in NY
• Selling retail to keep income coming in to make ends meet
• The 4 core steps to take to keep your clients and employees engaged

Getting Scrappy: Opening a Salon at the Age of 28

• Attending and graduating high school and hair school at the same time while working multiple jobs
• Transitioning from hairdresser to salon owner
• Building a brand, not just a company
• The Rachel Hollis connection & leadership

Build It: Key Insights When Starting a Business

• Stopping the slippery slope of buying unnecessary business supplies 
• If you're not driven and humble, rethink being a business owner
• Hair trends and competitors
• Leveraging social media and YouTube to consistently learn and stay ahead of the game

The Art of Hiring and Expansion

• Hiring staff with the right skillset and culture fit
• The hardest part of hiring
• Social media as a tool to find your next hire
• Know every single part of your business before you hire

Wellness Measures

• Phone reminders with intentional prompts
• The impact of a gratitude journal

Looking Ahead

• The risk of losing clients with re-opening restrictions
• Post-covid plans - exciting expansions in the works
• The concern of a covid outbreak in the winter

Muscle Creative Wrap-Up
If you could listen to only one music artist for the rest of your life who would it be? OneRepublic

Where can people find you online?

• Instagram
  • Personal
  • Business
• Facebook
  • Personal 
  • Business
• Website
  • https://www.mbstudiosalon.com/