Did someone just hand in their notice? Or maybe you're stuck with staff who just aren't good enough, but you're too scared to let them go. Good news: good staff exist. You're just fishing in the wrong pond.

In this episode, Phil Jackson breaks down the five-step recruitment process that actually works in 2026. This is Build Your Salon's #1 most-watched topic—updated for portfolio working, flexibility expectations, and where good people actually are.

What You'll Learn:

• The five points where your recruitment process breaks down
• Why "nobody wants to work" means you're looking in wrong places
• Where good staff actually are (not Indeed or Facebook)
• How to make your offer compelling in 2026
• Proper interview process that prevents expensive mistakes
• Why onboarding determines 90% of recruitment success

The Five Steps:

Step 1: Know What You're Looking For

• Written job description before you need it
• Required vs. desired skills, culture fit criteria, deal-breakers
• Desperation hiring = expensive mistakes

Step 2: Fish in the Right Pond

• Good staff are already employed, ready to move for right opportunity
• Where to fish: Instagram, college tutors, industry events, your clients
• Always be recruiting (even when fully staffed)
• Build pipeline: "When you're ready to move, call me"

Step 3: Make Your Offer Compelling

• 2026 staff want: progression path, training, flexibility, low drama, transparency
• Include: Training budget, 4-day week options, success stories
• Good people have options—they're choosing you too

Step 4: Interview Like You Mean It

• Phone screen → interview → practical → trial (paid) → references
• Call references, don't just email
• Real example: "Car crash" hire because no references checked

Step 5: Onboard Properly

• Shadowing, training on YOUR systems, clear expectations
• 12 weeks probation minimum
• Regular feedback (weekly for first month)
• Most failures happen in first 90 days

This Week's Action:Write that job description before you need it.

About Phil Jackson:Phil Jackson is a salon business coach with 27 years of industry experience and a Creative Head Most Wanted Award. He helps salon owners in hair, beauty, and aesthetics build profitable businesses without the hustle BS.

Work with Phil:If recruitment struggles are symptoms of bigger issues (pricing, culture, systems):

• 1:1 Ultimate Clarity Coaching: 90-day intensive delivering your 5-year lifestyle-first business plan, 12-month profit & pricing strategy, and 12-month marketing plan
• Book a free consultation: https://tidycal.com/philjackson/1to1-enquiry
• Email: [email protected]