Beauty Business Matters (Susan Routledge)
Explore every episode of Beauty Business Matters
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Oct 2024 | From Basement to Brilliance: Paula Clipsham's Inspiring Salon Transformation Journey | 00:36:54 | |
In this episode, Susan interviews the multi-award-winning salon owner Paula Clipsham, who shares her remarkable journey from a small basement salon to a thriving business with a dedicated team. Paula discusses the challenges she faced as a salon owner, particularly during the pandemic, and how she transformed her vision into reality by expanding her salon and fostering a supportive team environment.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "I always knew that I wouldn't be happy working for someone else. So as soon as I qualified, I started doing mobile treatments." "Being a salon owner can be a really lonely place. You don't really fit in with your team because there has to be some kind of boundary." "Lockdown was so tough for so many people and yet for me, it's the best thing that ever happened." "I want my team to earn as much as they possibly can. They work hard and they train hard." "It's waking up in the morning and wanting to come to work and feeling part of it that always sits far higher than money." SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta
Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty and the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
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| 05 Mar 2025 | Why I Started The Podcast | 00:13:04 | |
In today's midweek episode, Susan shares what motivated her to start this podcast. Reflecting on her extensive experience in the beauty industry, Susan recounts how the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to connect with salon and clinic owners through interviews, providing vital information during a time of uncertainty. She also discusses the evolution of her initiatives, including the successful 'Beauty and the Best' books and the popular Beauty Roundup events, which foster community and learning among beauty professionals. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "I thought a great thing to do would be to try and bring the right people who could help with things like furlough and all the things that everyone was in total confusion about." "The Beauty Roundup events have been absolutely phenomenal. You can see all of the 'aha' moments where someone thinks, 'wow, I could do that.'" "I had been thinking about doing a podcast for so, so long. I decided that I would go with the largest podcast company in the UK." "It's just been such a fabulous journey. We've had fabulous CEOs of companies like Ronan from Forrest, David Alpert from IIAA." "The messages that I get as well have just been overwhelming to get beautiful feedback about how inspiring everyone's finding the podcast." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 06 Jan 2025 | From Dreams to Reality: The Inspiring Journey of Environ Skincare with David Alpert | 00:59:39 | |
Susan Routledge interviews David Alpert from IIAA and Environ, celebrating the remarkable 30-year journey of their family-owned business. David shares insights into the company's humble beginnings, the challenges faced while establishing Environ Skincare, and the innovative strategies that propelled their success, particularly during the 2008 recession. The conversation delves into the importance of training, the evolving landscape of the skincare industry, and the vital role of skincare professionals in delivering results-driven care. KEY TAKEAWAYS Entrepreneurial Journey: The company started over 30 years ago with founders Tracy and David arriving in the UK with no connections or money. Community and Family Business: Despite being perceived as a large corporate entity, the company remains privately owned and operates as a family business. Value of Training and Expertise: Continuous training and education are crucial for skincare professionals. Impact of Economic Conditions: The 2008 recession was a turning point for the company, as they chose to invest in growth while competitors were cutting back.
BEST MOMENTS "We often joke that we've been a 30-year overnight success. It took a lot of hard work, sweat, and tears, but we could see that we were making progress." - David "It's just so lovely to know the story behind it. All those like, you know, jumping in a car and just like having some products in a car." - Susan "During a downturn, what you need to do is show value for money. And value for money has absolutely nothing to do with price." - David "What we're starting to understand is that actually the importance of the work that you guys are doing is vastly underestimated in terms of the impact." - David
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
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| 25 Nov 2024 | From Soldier to Skincare: Andrea Simpson's Inspiring Journey in the Beauty Industry | 00:48:17 | |
In this episode of "Beauty Business Matters," Susan Routledge sits down with Andrea Simpson, a remarkable beauty therapist and mentor, to discuss her unconventional journey from the British Army to the beauty industry. Andrea shares her inspiring story of transformation, detailing her experiences in various roles, including her time as a national trainer for prestigious spas and her successful establishment of a skincare centre. The conversation delves into the importance of personal connection with clients, the power of touch, and the significance of tailored treatments. Andrea also highlights her achievements, including her recognition as an advanced therapist in the Fab Service Stars and her new venture, The Facial Mentor, where she aims to empower other therapists to elevate their practices. This episode is filled with valuable insights and golden nuggets for anyone in the beauty industry looking to enhance their client experience and business success. KEY TAKEAWAYS Personal Connection is Essential: Building a strong connection with clients is crucial. Holistic Approach to Treatments: Treatments should not be viewed as isolated events. Instead, they should be part of a continuous journey that includes personalized consultations, home care recommendations, and follow-ups to ensure clients achieve the best results. Manifestation and Opportunity: The importance of manifesting one's goals and being open to opportunities is highlighted. Education and Mentorship: Continuous learning and sharing knowledge with others in the industry is vital. Exceptional Customer Service: Striving for excellence in customer service, akin to the standards of luxury brands, can set a business apart.
BEST MOMENTS "I always want to know that whatever I'm doing for your skin today, if I bumped into you 20 to 30 years down the line, that I look at you and I know for a fact that I've done everything with the best integrity." "You were a victim of your own success. The hours that you were working weren't sustainable." "It's never just a facial. Every decision I make, every brand I work with, every treatment I do, all my clients, anything... those five little words are everything." "Listening is everything. I watch people's body language... it takes it to another dimension completely." "I think it gives sometimes the opportunity to come out of the industry and some people to probably change careers that they would never maybe have done before."
SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 30 Mar 2025 | Cruising Through Careers: Rachel Howard Shares Her Adventures on the High Seas of Beauty | 00:42:17 | |
Susan welcomes Rachael Howard from Beauty Within, a seasoned professional with nearly 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. Rachael shares her inspiring journey, which began with aspirations of becoming a nurse before transitioning into beauty therapy after discovering her passion for holistic treatments. She recounts her experiences working on cruise ships, teaching in the Middle East, and her return to the UK, where she established her own beauty business. Throughout the conversation, Rachel emphasizes the importance of education, personal connections with clients, and the evolving nature of the beauty industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Diverse Career Paths: The beauty industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, allowing individuals to explore various roles, from nursing to teaching and working on cruise ships. Importance of Passion: Finding a job that you love is crucial for long-term satisfaction and success. The journey in the beauty industry can be fulfilling when driven by passion, as it leads to a more enjoyable work environment and better client relationships. Continuous Education: Staying informed and educated about industry trends, products, and techniques is essential. Client Relationships: Building strong relationships with clients is key. Understanding their needs and being empathetic to their situations can enhance the client experience and foster loyalty, as clients often become friends over time.
BEST MOMENTS "I always wanted to go into nursing... I failed it, unfortunately, due to the maths. Not very good on the maths side of things." - Rachael "When I look back now, that person was still on that oily range for like five years. Why? It wasn't working." - Rachael "I just think it just shows that, like, you can just do anything that you want in our industry." - Susan "You never know what's going on in someone's life... if you react back the same way to someone, then it just accelerates it." - Rachael HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 03 Feb 2025 | Creating Killer Content: Leveraging AI for Authentic Social Media Engagement | 00:52:33 | |
Susan Routledge welcomes her friend and business mentor, Tony Bache, known for her expertise in scaling seven-figure businesses. The conversation delves into the transformative role of AI in the beauty industry, exploring how it can streamline operations and enhance marketing strategies for salons. Tony shares her extensive experience with AI tools, including ChatGPT, and discusses the importance of maintaining a human touch in client interactions. They also touch on effective social media strategies, emphasizing the need for authentic content that resonates with audiences. KEY TAKEAWAYS Human Connection is Irreplaceable: In the beauty industry, the personal touch and connection with clients are crucial. Content Quality Over Quantity: Instead of posting frequently with generic content, focus on creating fewer, high-quality posts that resonate with your audience. Utilize AI for Ideation: AI can be a valuable resource for brainstorming content ideas and drafting posts. Engagement and Community Building: Actively engage with local businesses and your audience on social media.
BEST MOMENTS "I think it's like, for me, it's like the fact it's an accelerator, it's an amplifier... what else could have you spent that time on?" - Toni "If you're in the beauty industry, probably your least favourite thing to do is all of the admin... that's the stuff that's going to be automated." - Toni "I think we are in such a fortunate industry where... human contact and the connection that we have with clients, you're never going to be replaced with that." - Susan "You need to be the flamingo in the sea of seagulls. If you want people to actually see your stuff, it's got to be a bit different." - Toni
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 18 Dec 2024 | Networking and Inspiration: Discovering the Beauty Roundup Events | 00:12:27 | |
In today's episode, Susan addresses two frequently sought after initiatives: the Beauty Directors Club and the Beauty Roundup events. She explains that the Beauty Directors Club, established in 2018, is a private membership for established beauty salon and skin clinic owners, fostering a supportive community focused on business excellence. Susan highlights the club's achievements, including collaborations for charity and the creation of bestselling books that inspired the Beauty Roundup events. These events, held in various cities, feature inspiring stories from members and provide valuable networking opportunities, all while promoting business growth and community engagement. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "Beauty Directors Club is a private membership that I created back in 2018 for exclusively for established beauty salon and skin clinic owners." "It's quite hard to explain, because we are such a close network, and so supportive, but it is as well where we are all striving to take our business to a whole new level." "We've also collaborated together to raise money for charities. It's lovely because then it's like a loan that they pay back then we help someone else." "What we've brought together as well is the networking event. Everyone says that they get so inspired by listening to everyone else." "The events are two hours long and then we always have fantastic goodie bags as well because the suppliers always are so, so supportive." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 22 Oct 2024 | Unlocking Salon Success: The Essential Role of the CEO in Your Beauty Business | 00:17:14 | |
In this episode Susan shares her extensive experience in the beauty industry, having run her award-winning clinic for over 36 years. Susan addresses a key question from Beauty Directors Club member Verity Davies about the most important aspect of running a successful beauty salon. Susan emphasizes the significance of the salon owner as the CEO, highlighting the need for self-care, effective systems, and a balanced approach to managing clients, cash, assets, and team dynamics. Susan introduces her trademarked formula, "STABLE," which focuses on creating robust systems, building trust, ensuring adaptability, establishing a strong brand, fostering valuable links, and prioritizing education.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "You are not your business. It just needs to be your lucrative, profitable friend that you can leave, go away and it'll still work for you." "The first thing I would say is as a CEO of the business that you need to look after yourself." "If a key team member leaves, there's something in place straight away, rather than it being a flat panic of trying to recruit." "Every area of your business needs to have systems in place." "You need to know exactly what's going on in the business before you try and rebuild these building blocks to make it rock solid."
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty and the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
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| 26 Mar 2025 | Local Collaborations vs Social Media | 00:12:26 | |
In this episode, Susan discusses the importance of local collaborations for salon and clinic owners looking to build their client base. While acknowledging the role of social media for visibility, she notes that personal connections and local partnerships can yield quicker results. Susan also shares insights from her experience at the Beauty Directors Club Business Bootcamp in Malta, where she explored over 30 collaboration strategies with various local businesses. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "I always think that social media has a great place, but to me, it's more for visibility rather than being in a room or personally speaking to someone." "When you are going to collaborate locally, you need to first of all think about what the benefit is, what benefit it's going to have to your business." "If you want to be known as the local skincare expert, then that is where you need to be putting all of your strength and focus." "With slimming clubs, you could offer to run competitions with them. Part of the competition is someone wins a gift voucher or a gift bag." "It's just having those ideas to be in front of people at the right time as well." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 12 Mar 2025 | Should I Take a Booking Fee? | 00:12:23 | |
In this episode, Susan addresses a common question among clinic and salon owners: whether to implement a booking fee or a deposit system. She explains the differences between the two and advocates for a booking fee as a more effective deterrent against last-minute cancellations and no-shows. Susan emphasises the importance of planning, consistency, and clear terms and conditions when introducing a booking fee. She shares practical strategies for encouraging clients to respect appointments, such as creating a sense of scarcity and using a booking system that requires a fee for certain clients. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "A client who pays a deposit, that's something you would normally expect to get back or taken off the cost of your treatment." "As soon as a client is out of the clinic without their next appointments booked in, you're in no man's land." "It's amazing how it works as a deterrent. All of a sudden, she could come for that appointment." "You need to plan it all properly. Be consistent! It has to be consistent, not just for certain clients." "If a client knows that they've got to pay more money the next time they come in, they're just going to go to a competitor." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 03 Mar 2025 | Manifesting Success: The Secrets Behind Susan Routledge's Award-Winning Salon and Business Ventures | 00:32:19 | |
Host Susan Routledge shares her personal journey in the beauty industry, reflecting on her early fascination with makeup and hair, the challenges she faced while starting her own business, and the profound impact of her father's sudden passing. Susan discusses her evolution from a home-based beauty service to owning a successful salon, winning prestigious awards, and eventually stepping back to focus on helping other salon owners through her initiatives like the Beauty Directors Club. She also highlights her passion for education, networking, and the importance of community within the industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Passion for Beauty: From a young age, there was a strong fascination with the beauty industry, leading to a lifelong commitment to pursuing a career in beauty therapy and hairdressing. Overcoming Challenges: The journey included significant challenges, such as the loss of a parent and the realisation that the initial business was built to impress rather than fulfill personal passion. Continuous Learning and Growth: Emphasizing the importance of education, the individual pursued teaching qualifications and refresher courses, which ultimately contributed to the success of the salon and the ability to help others in the industry. Community and Support: The establishment of the Beauty Directors Club highlights the value of community in the beauty industry, providing a platform for salon owners to connect, share experiences, and support one another.
BEST MOMENTS "I always think if you're going to dream, you may as well dream big." - Susan "I just wish I'd stopped." - Susan "I realized that like this business I'd built up wasn't really the business that I wanted." - Susan "I think there's so much help out there and learning from each other is definitely the way forwards." - Susan HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
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| 18 Nov 2024 | How to Hack Your Brain for Success with Vicky Ross | 00:57:57 | |
In this episode of "Beauty Business Matters," Susan engages in a captivating conversation with personal development expert Vicky Ross, exploring the intricate relationship between our brain's functioning and achieving success. Vicky shares her multifaceted approach to transformation, emphasising the importance of understanding beliefs and paradigms that shape our behaviours. The discussion delves into the science of brainwaves, illustrating how our early experiences influence our adult lives and decision-making processes. Listeners will gain insights into the significance of being specific about their goals, the impact of emotional patterns, and the necessity of self-awareness in breaking free from limiting beliefs.
KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding Paradigms and Beliefs: Paradigms, which are formed from early experiences and observations, significantly influence our behaviour and decision-making. Brainwave Development Stages: The brain undergoes different developmental stages from birth through adolescence, transitioning from delta waves (suggestibility) to theta (creativity and exploration) and finally to beta waves (conscious thought). T The Importance of Consciousness: A significant portion of the population operates unconsciously, reacting to life rather than proactively shaping it. Emotional Addictions: People can become addicted to their emotional states, whether positive or negative. This addiction can drive behaviours that reinforce limiting beliefs and paradigms. The Role of Stress and Self-Care: Chronic stress can lead to physical and emotional issues. Taking time for self-care and mindfulness is vital for maintaining well-being and preventing burnout.
BEST MOMENTS "The precursor to change... you have to know what it is that has happened, how it happened, so that you know how the system works to be able to then go and change the system." - Vicky "I always say, so what do you want, what's your future, what do you want to achieve? and quite happily tell me what they don't want and go back over." - Susan "If you weren't born with it, it means you've learned it. And that's great because if you learn something, you can unlearn it and learn something different." - Vicky "We are not taught to think about our thinking. It's a huge topic and it should be a number one necessary life skill." - Vicky "You have got to listen to your body as well. You've got to listen to the signs." - Susan SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://www.tiktok.com/@beautybusinessmatters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters
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| 15 Apr 2025 | Choosing Your Equipment - 20 Ways To Make The Right Choice | 00:14:26 | |
In today's episode, Susan shares valuable insights on how to choose the right equipment for your beauty business. She outlines 20 essential considerations to ensure that your investment meets client demand and enhances your services. From understanding the reasons behind your purchase to conducting thorough research on suppliers, equipment standards, and market saturation, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for beauty professionals looking to make informed decisions that will ultimately drive their business to success. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "First of all, why do you want that piece of equipment? Is it just that you want that piece of equipment, or is it that you've got demand from your clients for it?" "Look for recommendations as well. Do you know anyone else who's had that piece of equipment? Look at the results that they've got from it." "What kind of support are you gonna get with this system? Is it gonna be you just buy it, you're left to your own devices?" "Look at the resale value as well. If you decide in two years' time that you want to sell that piece of equipment, what's the resale value likely to look at?" "It is so tempting just to jump in to buy a piece of equipment, but it's a relationship that you're building with that supplier." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 06 Apr 2025 | How to Become a Trusted Advisor in the Beauty Industry and Boost Your Income | 00:50:05 | |
Susan welcomes Pete Scott from the Sales Spotlight Academy, who shares his insights on transforming the beauty industry by empowering therapists and salon owners to charge what they are truly worth. With a background that spans from personal training on cruise ships to consulting for various industries, Pete discusses the importance of effective consultations and the psychology behind selling high-value services. He emphasizes the need for therapists to shift their mindset from commoditized treatments to offering genuine transformations for clients, ultimately positioning themselves as trusted advisors. Throughout the conversation, Pete provides practical strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs and enhancing client relationships, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the beauty business looking to elevate their practice and increase their revenue. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transformational Selling: The focus should be on helping clients achieve real change and transformation rather than just selling treatments. Consultation Importance: A well-structured consultation is crucial for success in the beauty industry. Asking the right questions can lead to deeper conversations, allowing clients to realize the value of long-term investments in their beauty and wellness. Mindset Shift: Many therapists and salon owners limit themselves by assuming clients won't pay higher prices. It's essential to challenge these beliefs and recognize that clients often want to invest in their well-being when they see the value in the service offered. Team Empowerment: For salon owners, it's vital to support and empower their teams through training and practice.
BEST MOMENTS "If a client walked into your business tomorrow and said, 'Here's £10,000,' not one therapist has said they wouldn't take the money. They all reply, 'I would figure it out.'" - Pete "You always say it is down to the consultation. And of course, it very much is." - Susan "Clients want to buy. They want you to be their trusted advisor. They love the idea of saying, 'my skin advisor.'"- Pete "The less you charge, the more clients will pay for the product. The more they pay, the more they pay for you."- Pete HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ Instagram: @petejscott https://www.facebook.com/pete.scott.sales
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| 10 Feb 2025 | From Coco Chanel to Modern Awareness: The Evolution of Tanning and Skin Health | 00:49:50 | |
Susan Routledge welcomes Marie Tudor, CEO of the Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity and Masced Training. They discuss the vital importance of early detection of skin cancer and the accessible training offered to beauty professionals and the general public for just £20. Marie shares her journey with the charity, highlighting the impact of education on skin cancer prevention and the role beauty industry professionals play in saving lives. The conversation also delves into the history of tanning, the significance of skin health awareness, and the charity's initiatives in schools and communities. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Early Detection: The training provided by the charity focuses on the early detection of skin cancer, which can significantly save lives. Affordable Training: The training is offered at a low cost of £20, making it accessible for individuals in the beauty industry and beyond. Impact of Education: The charity emphasizes that 90% of skin cancers are preventable, highlighting the importance of education in reducing skin cancer rates. Community Engagement: The charity has developed programs for schools and nurseries to educate children about sun safety, aiming to instil healthy habits from a young age. BEST MOMENTS "We discovered that 90% of skin cancers are preventable, so we decided to focus on education and working with at-risk and influential audiences." - Marie "I know that we have saved clients' lives through your training, so I cannot thank you enough." - Susan "The beauty industry has such a powerful role to play because they're actually saving the NHS money." -Marie "If a child gets sunburned under adolescence, it doubles your chances of getting melanoma later in life." - Marie
Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 01 Apr 2025 | Why Can't My Team Sell When I Can | 00:15:11 | |
In this episode, Susan addresses a common concern among salon and clinic owners: why their teams struggle to sell products as effectively as they do. Susan emphasises the trust clients place in owners and explores deeper issues that may hinder team sales, such as money mindset and product knowledge. She offers practical strategies for improving retail success, including the importance of understanding client needs, using appropriate language, and implementing a seven-day money-back guarantee to boost confidence in selling. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "Clients will always see you as the key person in that business and will trust you the most." "If your team aren't selling, then quite often it is a money mindset thing where you may want to do some work with your team around their money mindset." "Clients will always find money for whatever they see value in." "It's a form of discrimination if you've got therapists who are constantly thinking, 'Oh, my clients can't afford this' and they are prejudging their clients." "Skincare and cosmetics are no longer luxuries to clients. Now they are just commodities."
Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 20 Jan 2025 | Navigating ADHD: Sarah Abel's Strategies for Success in Business and Life | 00:49:10 | |
Susan sits down with Sarah Abel, author of "The Power of Funding in the Hair and Beauty Business." Sarah shares her incredible journey from being a Saturday girl in a hair salon to securing over six million pounds in government funding for hair and beauty businesses. The conversation delves into her personal experiences, including her challenges with ADHD and how she has developed techniques to manage it while growing her business. Listeners will be inspired by Sarah's resilience, her insights on the importance of education and strategic partnerships, and her passion for helping others succeed in the industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Education and Training: The guest emphasizes the significance of education in the hair and beauty sector. She established a training academy to provide apprenticeships and upskill individuals, highlighting the need for robust training programs to enhance industry standards. Securing Funding: Over six million pounds in government funding was secured through a proactive approach to identifying various funding opportunities. The guest's curiosity and networking skills played a crucial role in discovering and accessing these financial resources. Building Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations and strategic partnerships are essential for business growth. The guest advocates for win-win relationships, where both parties benefit, which can lead to increased opportunities and resources. BEST MOMENTS "I was very good at seeing the picture of what they wanted... I was good at finding funding." - Sarah "I think people don't stick at things long enough for them to work. I was definitely stuck at things long enough to make it happen." - Sarah "You must have been thinking, oh my God, this woman's coming over to me again." - Susan USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. | |||
| 04 Nov 2024 | From Hairdressing to Aesthetics: Andrew Hansford's Unconventional Journey in the Beauty Industry | 00:45:17 | |
In this captivating episode of "Beauty Business Matters," Susan sits down with the remarkable Andrew Hansford, a seasoned expert in the skincare and aesthetics industry. Andrew shares his unique journey, from his early days in hairdressing to his unexpected 14-year stint in Bermuda and a modelling career that exposed him to the darker sides of the beauty world. The conversation delves into Andrew's transition into education and his passion for empowering others in the industry through his ACH group and aesthetic teachings. With a focus on the importance of knowledge and evidence-based practices, Andrew discusses the evolution of beauty treatments, the significance of combination therapies, and the exciting advancements in regenerative medicine. KEY TAKEAWAYS Diverse Career Journey: Andrew's career began in hairdressing, which led him to Bermuda and eventually to modelling in California. Importance of Education: Andrew emphasises the significance of education in the beauty industry, advocating for a comprehensive understanding of skincare and aesthetic treatments. Combination Therapies: The discussion highlights the effectiveness of combining various aesthetic treatments to achieve superior results. Regenerative Medicine: There is a growing trend towards regenerative treatments in the aesthetics field, which focus on long-term skin health rather than temporary solutions like injectables. ACH Group Resource: Andrew's ACH Group serves as a valuable resource for skincare knowledge, offering a wealth of information that is accessible and unbiased. BEST MOMENTS "I think life takes you on some random path sometimes. And I've always been the kind of person that just kind of ran with it." - Andrew "Regenerative medicine is absolutely... there's a massive need. People who know their stuff are on board with that already." - Andrew "I think you bridge that gap that was missing in the industry... your knowledge, it's just, it's enthralling." - Susan "Combination therapies are various therapies, individual and together, that loads of people use. But the beauty industry especially, they're taught never to mix and match." - Andrew "If it doesn't come with evidence, then bye-bye." - Andrew SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
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| 08 Apr 2025 | Making the Most of Trade Shows | 00:14:15 | |
In this episode, Susan shares valuable insights on how salon and clinic owners can maximize their experience at trade shows. Addressing common misconceptions about the value of these events, Susan emphasizes the importance of preparation, including creating an agenda, researching exhibitors, and engaging with key suppliers. Susan highlights the benefits of networking, attending educational demonstrations, and even entering competitions for a chance to win valuable prizes.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "Your clients are so, so knowledgeable now that they expect you to be on your A game all the time." "Make sure that you are doing all of your market research beforehand, talking to your clients about what you are hoping to see at the show." "It's a great time as well if you are planned, you're turning up there very professional, it's a great time to do some great negotiating." "Although that sounds like it's, you know, great fun, it's a great time to be networking because networking is a huge part of being at a trade show." "Make sure that you see what competitions are on and enter those competitions as well."
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 04 Dec 2024 | Are You Sabotaging Your Salon's Financial Health? Discover the Truth | 00:10:35 | |
In today's episode, Susan explores the critical topic of cash flow management for salon owners. She emphasises the importance of mindset and effective business systems in maintaining financial health. Susan challenges listeners to reflect on their attitudes towards money and encourages them to take responsibility for their current financial situations. By sharing insights on visualisation, goal setting, and the power of positive thinking, she inspires salon owners to shift their focus from scarcity to abundance. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "Are you killing your salon cash flow? Because sadly, I think a lot of you are." "If you haven't changed your mindset, there's about a 90% chance that you'd end up in the same financial situation as you started with." "You have to take 100% responsibility for your current situation." "If you are just carrying on doing the same things, you are going to get the same results." "Keep dreaming, keep writing everything down, and hopefully that £30,000 is going to be sitting in your bank account." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.USEFUL LINKS | |||
| 20 Oct 2024 | Transforming Utopia: How Strategic Changes and Team Empowerment Revitalized a Beauty Clinic | 00:35:02 | |
In this episode, Susan sits down with Stefania Rossi, the owner of Utopia Advanced Skin Care and Beauty Clinic in Hornchurch. They reflect on their decade-long journey together, discussing Stefania's transformation of a failing salon into a multi-award-winning business. Stefania shares her insights on recruitment, emphasizing the need for employers to present themselves as desirable workplaces and to be proactive in their hiring processes. Stefania's story is both inspiring and informative for anyone in the beauty business.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "I came out from a very different background from a corporate world... I bought Utopia, which came with its own challenges, and it was the best choice of my life." "Once we took the discounts out straight away, that was really where we started to unfold what was actually going on inside." "Winning that particular award... was a massive credit to my team. It was this is you guys, you know." "It's a process. That's all it is. It's like stripping your business back, looking at what you've got and then building it back from there." "Recruitment becomes a reactive process... when we rush and we make mistakes and we run around and we employ the wrong people." SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta
Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty and the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. GUEST LINKS https://www.instagram.com/stefaniarossirecruitment/ https://www.stefaniarossi.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
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| 20 Oct 2024 | Transforming Beauty Sales: Insights from Global Retail Trainer Arif Isikgun | 00:37:53 | |
In this episode, Susan welcomes Arif Isikgun, a leading global retail sales trainer with extensive experience in the beauty industry. Arif shares his inspiring journey from aspiring doctor to top sales trainer, emphasizing his passion for beauty and the transformative power of skincare products. Arif provides valuable insights on how therapists can enhance their confidence and communication skills, ultimately leading to increased retail sales and improved client satisfaction.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "If you genuinely feel that these products are going to transform your client for the better... then they should be leaving with those products." "Retail sales is such a huge integral part... you can't quite understand how therapists can sell treatments for hundreds of pounds yet they can't sell a cream that's going to last two, three months." "Human beings purchase from an emotional level... any purchase we make comes from an emotional place." "Don't be afraid to stop the treatment mid-treatment and talk to your client about the issues that they are really concerned with." "It's just taking that new element of like it doesn't have to be done a certain way... this is just such a gentler way to do it and it works." SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty and the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
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| 10 Mar 2025 | Building a Brand with Heart: The Sweet Squared Story of Passion and Purpose | 01:05:17 | |
Susan Routledge welcomes the dynamic duo, Samuel and Samantha Sweet of Sweet Squared, for their first duet podcast. The conversation delves into their inspiring journey in the beauty industry, starting from their early careers to the establishment of Sweet Squared. They share personal anecdotes about their initial experiences, the challenges of building a brand, and the importance of education in the nail and beauty sectors. The episode highlights their commitment to elevating industry standards, fostering a culture of love and respect, and their involvement in charitable initiatives that support professionals in the hair and beauty community. With a blend of humour and heartfelt insights, Samuel and Samantha reflect on their passion for the industry and the values that drive their business. KEY TAKEAWAYS Passion for Education: Both Samuel and Samantha emphasize the importance of education in the beauty industry. Customer-Centric Approach: Sweet Squared prioritizes the needs and experiences of their customers. Adaptability and Growth: The journey of Sweet Squared showcases their ability to adapt to changes in the market, such as diversifying their product offerings and shifting from traditional trade shows to more personalized in-field events that foster deeper connections with professionals. Commitment to Industry Standards: The founders are dedicated to elevating the standards of the beauty industry. BEST MOMENTS "I discovered that the nail industry was significantly more artistically rewarding to me. There was so much to learn, and the feeling of transforming somebody was really rewarding." - Samuel "I always loved dealing with people. My skill was making people feel good about what they do." - Samantha "We wanted to stay true to our values and do things differently. We didn't want to be a transactional company." - Samuel "Our mission isn't to sell a bunch of products; it's to elevate the state of the industry as a whole."- Samantha HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
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| 20 Nov 2024 | Creating a Magnetic Salon: Tips for Enhancing Your Reputation to Attract Great Therapists | 00:13:03 | |
In this episode, Susan addresses a common concern among salon owners: how to attract and employ the right therapists. She emphasizes the importance of being specific in recruitment efforts and maintaining relationships with former employees, as they may return after realizing their new choices weren't ideal. Susan shares her proven recruitment process, which includes initial Zoom interviews, team involvement in trade testing, and a structured selection process to assess candidates' skills and confidence. She also highlights the significance of building a strong reputation and engaging with local colleges to create a magnet for top talent. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "I think if you put out wishy-washy, you get wishy-washy." "Always stay in touch because quite often a therapist will think that it's going to be so great to be working on their own or going somewhere else." "For you to attract the best therapist to employ, really you need to be a magnet for them." "Make sure that everywhere your reputation just shines." "If you're trying to recruit in haste, then it's the wrong way to do it." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 27 Nov 2024 | Creating Irresistible Gift Vouchers: From Eye-Catching Displays to Goodie Bags | 00:14:00 | |
In this episode, Susan explores the vital role of gift vouchers in salon businesses, especially during the holiday season. She shares six effective strategies to maximize gift voucher sales, emphasising the importance of year-round promotion and eye-catching displays. Susan highlights the growing gift voucher market, worth £9 billion in the UK, and discusses how salons can attract clients by creating attractive gift packages, offering gift wrapping, and implementing wish lists. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "The gift voucher market in the UK has doubled in the last decade and it's now worth £9 billion. That is absolutely huge." "50 to 60% of all gift voucher sales are made in that final push towards Christmas. So it's crucial that you have your gift vouchers displayed." "Statistically, men normally spend around about 12% more per gift card as well. So guys are a great one because they don't relish normally like shopping." "If you can make it into something where it's just a nice little gift package, that just makes that gift that little bit more special." "57% of gift voucher recipients spend over and above the voucher amount. So, obviously, when someone's got a gift voucher, that is the ideal time to upsell." USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars.
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| 17 Feb 2025 | Achieving Excellence: How PHAB Service Stars is Transforming the Hair and Beauty Landscape | 00:54:17 | |
Susan sits down with Nergish Wadia-Austin, the founder of PHAB Service Stars, to discuss her remarkable journey in the hair and beauty industry. Nergish shares her unique background, starting from her education in India and Hong Kong to managing the largest salon in the world at Harrods. The conversation delves into the importance of maintaining high standards in the industry and how the PHAB Service Stars program serves as a benchmark for excellence, helping professionals excel and gain recognition. Nergish emphasizes the significance of ongoing education, customer care, and the impact of high standards on business success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their practice and understand the value of striving for excellence in the beauty sector. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "PHAB is spelled P-H-A-B, and that stands for Performance in Hair and Beauty. It's a service star to compare to for people who are striving to be the best." - Nergish "I always liken it to a Michelin star. It's going to that level above, like you say, above what the average is." - Susan "The beauty about standards is they don't cost anything. It's pure dedication that does that. Pure dedication and wanting to excel."- Nergish "The PHAB service star can't be bought; it has to be earned."- Nergish HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
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| 24 Mar 2025 | Building Trust in Beauty: Josh Yardley's Journey in the Beauty Industry | 00:57:21 | |
Susan sits down with industry veteran Josh Yardley from The Smart Group. They delve into Josh's extensive background in retail and beauty, discussing his journey from working with major retailers to founding a successful business that supplies advanced beauty equipment. Josh shares insights on the importance of understanding consumer needs, the evolving relationship between beauty and medical aesthetics, and the significance of education and trust in the beauty industry. He emphasizes the necessity for salon owners to adapt to market demands, manage client expectations, and create personalised treatment journeys. The conversation also highlights the role of technology and marketing in enhancing salon services, ultimately aiming to elevate client care and business success. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding the Beauty Industry: The beauty industry is evolving, with a significant overlap between beauty and medical aesthetics. Importance of Customer Relationships: Building trust between beauty therapists and clients is crucial. The unique bond formed during treatments can lead to higher customer retention and satisfaction, emphasizing the need for therapists to be well-trained and confident in their services. Market Research and Product Development: Successful product offerings in the beauty industry require thorough market research to understand consumer needs. Education and Training: Continuous education for both therapists and consumers is vital. Providing comprehensive training and resources helps ensure that therapists can deliver high-quality services, while educating consumers about treatment options fosters informed decision-making. BEST MOMENTS "The relationship between a beauty therapist and a customer is really extraordinarily different from anything else... within an hour, a bond is formed of trust. And that is that beauty." - Josh "If we can make it not painful, then we can make it really super fast, which then makes it affordable." - Josh "I think education is such a huge thing now for the shows. I can see a big change over the last few years."- Susan "If you're not prepared to tell us how do we get better and we want to be better every day." - Josh HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ mailto:info@the-smartgroup.co.uk
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| 13 Nov 2024 | Are Awards a Fix? - Insights from 13 Years of Beauty Awards | 00:11:50 | |
In this episode, Susan tackles the provocative question of if awards are actually a 'fix'. Drawing from her extensive experience as a judge for various beauty industry awards, she emphasizes the rigorous process behind award selection and the importance of distinguishing genuine awards from marketing gimmicks. Susan encourages listeners to view the award application process as an opportunity for self-reflection and celebration of business achievements. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "Awards, are they a fix? And normally, I think when I get something as abrupt as that, I think the person sending the question in does think that they are a fix." "If you haven't entered awards or you haven't judged before, you don't realize how much work goes into it." "It's a great process to actually fill in an application form for an award because it really makes you look at your business from a different angle." "If you do become a finalist, that's great because then you can really, really go to town, tell everyone." "Make sure that at every point you've got a press release because it becomes old news very, very quickly." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 06 Nov 2024 | Empowering Your Team: Training Tips for Effective Product Recommendations | 00:10:50 | |
In this midweek episode, Susan addresses the pressing issue of declining retail sales in salons. Susan emphasises that while clients are still purchasing products, salon owners must take responsibility for understanding why their sales are down. Susan offers practical advice, including the importance of communication with team members and clients, implementing a seven-day money-back guarantee, and ensuring that staff are well-trained in product recommendations.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "If your retail sales are down, then I think, you know, the book stops with you. You need to address what is going on." "If a client has bought some products from you, you should have a rough estimate of when those products are going to run out." "It takes a lot for a client to actually take your advice, leave the salon, go online, look that product up, buy it online." "We are selling things that those clients are still going to be buying. And that's why marketing's there, to get in front of people." "If you really think that your clients aren't liking your products, are they the right products for you?"
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
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| 17 Mar 2025 | Crisis Management to Capturing Moments | 00:34:17 | |
Susan sits down with Amanda Hutchinson from AKP Branding Stories to explore the fascinating journey of brand photography. Amanda shares her unique background in crisis management and how it shaped her meticulous attention to detail in photography. The conversation delves into the transition from wedding photography to brand photography, highlighting the importance of planning and preparation for successful shoots. Amanda discusses the significance of professional brand photography in today's digital landscape, the psychology of colours, and how to create a cohesive visual identity. KEY TAKEAWAYS Transition from Crisis Management to Photography: Amanda transitioned from a career in crisis management, where she dealt with emergencies for corporate clients, to brand photography. Understanding Client Comfort: Amanda prioritizes understanding her clients' insecurities about their appearance. By asking about specific features they may be self-conscious about, she can adjust poses and angles to ensure they feel good about the final images. Brand Photography vs. Casual Photos: While casual photos taken with smartphones can be useful for content creation, professional brand photography is essential for high-quality images that convey a polished and trustworthy brand image. Colour Psychology in Branding: The choice of colours in clothing for photoshoots is crucial. Amanda explains that colours can influence perceptions and emotions, and while clients may want to wear their brand colours. BEST MOMENTS "Photography was my creative outlet because every day I was thinking, what's the worst that could happen? The wedding photography was like the polar opposite of me spending my weekends photographing people in love." - Amanda "If you can plan and prepare for that situation, you feel more confident because you know what to expect." - Amanda "A brand photographer brings all of that whereas a friend with a camera may not have that marketing and psychology side of it." - Amanda "It's just something magical when everyone's all together... I'm very proud of Beauty Directors Club and what we've created." - Susan HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ | |||
| 02 Dec 2024 | The Art of Self-Discovery: How to Trust Yourself and Embrace Change | 00:52:53 | |
In this episode of "Beauty Business Matters," Susan Routledge welcomes back the dynamic Vicky Ross for a deep dive into personal transformation and the power of mindset. Building on their previous conversation, they explore actionable steps for listeners to create the future they desire, emphasizing the importance of living life on one's own terms. Vicky shares her extensive background in NLP, hypnotherapy, and coaching, along with techniques to help individuals articulate their goals and overcome the fears and conditioning that often hold them back. The discussion highlights the significance of gratitude, the art of writing future letters, and the necessity of aligning one's mindset with their aspirations. KEY TAKEAWAYS Living Life on Your Terms: It's essential to identify what you truly want in life and to pursue it without being hindered by societal expectations or fears. The Power of Future Letters: Writing a future letter can help individuals visualize their goals and aspirations. Gratitude as a High-Vibrational Energy: Practicing gratitude daily can significantly shift one's mindset and energy. Mindset and Attitude: The way you approach life—your attitude—can determine your success. Self-Trust and Authenticity: Trusting your instincts and being true to yourself is vital for personal and professional growth.
BEST MOMENTS "The biggest thing... is the person that they are today does not have the life that they want in the future. So to have that future, there's a different person living there." - Vicky "I think it is that you're doing what's predictable or what is expected of you... a lot really, really struggle with being specific on what they want."- Susan "The unconscious mind cannot process the negative... when you say I don't want to be broke, the only thing that your brain can process is I want to be broke."- Vicky "Everything in your life is an extension of you. If you are in alignment... it doesn't matter what you do, it will work."- Vicky
SOCIAL & IMPORTANT LINK https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://www.tiktok.com/@beautybusinessmatters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant. Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. She founded and has grown her clinic for 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She created the trademarked STABLE business formula and is the author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars.
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| 14 Apr 2025 | Creating Change: Practical Tips for Managing Stress and Enhancing Productivity | 00:52:51 | |
Susan welcomes back mindset expert Vicky Ross to discuss the current unrest in the beauty industry amidst economic changes. As the episode coincides with Susan's birthday and the launch of season two, Vicky shares her extensive experience in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and offers valuable insights on managing overwhelm and resetting one's mindset. The conversation delves into the importance of awareness, the stories we tell ourselves, and practical strategies for prioritizing tasks and maintaining mental well-being. Vicky emphasizes the significance of daily rituals, gratitude, and intention-setting to navigate challenges effectively, making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to thrive in their business and personal life. KEY TAKEAWAYS Understanding Overwhelm: Overwhelm is often a result of taking on too many tasks within a limited time frame. The Importance of Awareness: Self-awareness is crucial in managing thoughts and emotions. By understanding what drives our behaviours and beliefs, we can better navigate challenges and reset our mindset when feeling overwhelmed. Communication and Perception: The way we communicate with ourselves and others significantly impacts our perceptions. Daily Rituals and Intentions: Establishing daily rituals, such as setting intentions and practicing gratitude, can help create a positive mindset. Taking time to reflect on what we want to achieve each day can lead to more focused and productive outcomes.
BEST MOMENTS "If people don't understand themselves and haven't raised an awareness about their thinking, their feelings, and their actions, then everything goes haywire." -Vicky "Overwhelm is typically when people are doing something they think is really important for them and they don't quite know how to do it."- Vicky "What has to be true in you to do that to yourself? Why do you have the need to put five or six complex tasks on your plate?" - Vicky "When someone doesn't stop, your body will stop you." - Susan HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://www.vickyross.com/awakening-serenity - code: serenity25
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| 24 Feb 2025 | From Factory to Fabulous: Lesley Castor's Inspiring Journey in the Beauty Industry | 00:39:02 | |
Susan Routledge interviews Lesley Castor, the founder of the multi-award-winning City Retreat salon chain. Lesley shares her fascinating journey into the beauty industry, starting from her unconventional beginnings in a factory to becoming a successful salon owner. She discusses the challenges she faced in the early years of her business, the importance of creating a positive team culture, and her commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the beauty industry, including tips on location selection, team building, and maintaining high standards. Lesley also reflects on her passion for the industry and the significance of awards in showcasing her salon's achievements. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Location: Choosing a salon location with high foot traffic is crucial for attracting clients. A Building a Strong Team Culture: Establishing a positive and supportive team culture is essential. Passion and Determination: A genuine passion for the beauty industry and a strong work ethic are vital for overcoming challenges. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: The beauty industry is ever-evolving, and staying updated with trends and techniques is important.
BEST MOMENTS "I think it was being together all day and all night I thought I need to do something for myself here."- Lesley "You can see how now you've developed that as a big thing in your business. Your team are absolutely fabulous and I know that is so important to you." - Susan "I just wanted to make sure that the client doesn't come out feeling like that and what can we add to the treatment that makes it that little bit more special."- Lesley "If you've got a dream, then follow it, but stick to your vision. Don't get sidetracked. Don't compromise."- Lesley HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
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| 20 Oct 2024 | From Dreams to Reality: The Inspiring Journey of Ronan Perceval and Phorest Software | 00:52:15 | |
In the inaugural episode, Susan welcomes Ronan Perceval from Phorest Software, marking a significant reunion after 12 years since their first meeting. Susan and Ronan discuss the challenges salon owners face, the importance of enthusiasm and energy in business, and how innovative solutions like text message reminders transformed the industry. They also touch on the evolution of salon practices, the impact of technology, and the significance of fostering a positive company culture.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "I want to tell us a little bit about the phorest journey. Everyone starts with a wild dream and one customer, and then it's what happens from there." "I fell in love with the industry... People were coming in, really looking forward to coming in. This was like the highlight of their day or week." "We found out that was the first ever SMS promotion ever in the world for her beauty salon. But we didn't know that at the time." "What are some of the things that you see that make that big difference and that big shift between a salon that's just coasting along and the ones that are flying?" "If you lose that, I think the soul of your business kind of goes out."
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty and the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
SPONSOR | |||
| 09 Dec 2024 | From Police Officer to Beauty Advocate: Amy Bates Shares Her Journey and Mission with Beauty Rebellion | 00:49:06 | |
Susan welcomes Amy Bates, a transformative figure in the beauty industry and founder of Beauty Rebellion. Amy shares her fascinating career journey, from her early days as a police officer to becoming a successful bridal hair and makeup artist, and ultimately focusing on body image and inclusion within the beauty sector. The conversation delves into the significant impact of societal standards on body image, the challenges faced by various underrepresented groups, and the importance of creating an inclusive environment in salons and spas. KEY TAKEAWAYS Career Evolution: The journey from being a police officer to a successful career in the beauty industry highlights the importance of following one's passion and the continuous evolution of professional paths. Body Image Awareness: There is a significant need to address body image issues within the beauty industry. Inclusion and Accessibility: Many individuals, including those with disabilities or different body types, face barriers when accessing beauty services. Business Benefits of Inclusivity: Embracing body positivity and inclusivity can lead to increased client retention, referrals, and overall profitability. BEST MOMENTS "If you don't love what you do, it's very, very hard to stay in a good place mentally with it." - Amy "We live in a society where the size of your body is really important... and there's so much negative emotion and anger towards bigger bodies." - Amy "You are very right about the images when you just sort of think about it." - Susan "Businesses that are actively inclusive are 33% more likely to outperform businesses that are not inclusive." - Amy
SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 11 Nov 2024 | From One Treatment Room to Multi-Site Success: Sara Shoemark's Inspiring Journey in the Beauty Industry | 00:36:09 | |
In this episode of "Beauty Business Matters," Susan Routledge sits down with the inspiring Sara Shoemark, founder of the multi-award-winning Glow Salons. Sara shares her journey from a young beauty therapy student to a successful salon owner with multiple locations. The conversation delves into her experiences in the beauty industry, the importance of training and supporting her team, and the little things that set salons apart in a competitive market. They discuss the significance of creating a welcoming environment for clients, the value of communication, and the power of flexibility in the workplace. Sara also highlights her commitment to continuous learning and development, both for herself and her team, while sharing insights on managing a multi-site business effectively. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice for anyone in the beauty industry.
KEY TAKEAWAYS Emphasis on Personal Connection: Simple gestures like using a client's name, offering a warm welcome, or providing small comforts can significantly enhance the customer experience. Importance of Training and Development: Offering opportunities for professional development not only helps retain staff but also ensures high-quality service for clients. Flexibility in Work Environment: Providing flexible working hours and understanding individual team members' needs can lead to a happier workforce. Learning from Experiences: Both positive and negative experiences in the industry can provide valuable lessons. Community and Support: Maintaining connections with former team members and supporting their journeys fosters a sense of community.
BEST MOMENTS "I always say I was never the best therapist but I was the only one. So I became extremely popular because there was no one else around." - Sara "I always think as well, Susan, does it matter when they're in work as long as they're fully booked?"- Susan "It's those small things that those clients see... It's a smile, it's feeling welcome, it's somebody just taking a moment to look up at you."- Sara "I always say to my team, you know, the thing is, if something happens, just say. It doesn't matter. It's real, isn't it?" - Susan "I do need to... get back into training as well... to keep my teams motivated and progressing with me." - Sara SPONSOR https://share.hsforms.com/1Z3Q1VRM8TNqfn11f4cZyPA1c4ta HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass
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| 20 Oct 2024 | An Introduction: What is Beauty Business Matters? | 00:03:46 | |
In this Introductory episode Susan a seasoned beauty industry professional with over 36 years of experience, introduces listeners to the podcast's mission of empowering beauty business professionals. With a multi-award-winning beauty clinic owner and business consultant background, Susan shares her passion for helping salon owners thrive.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "If you are a beauty business professional and you want to have a thriving business, then this is the podcast for you." "I have been in the beauty industry for over 36 years as a multi-award winning beauty clinic owner." "We started doing network events where we took really successful salon owners to share their insights with other salon owners." "In Beauty Business Matters, you can expect weekly interviews with top supplier CEOs and salon owners who've really taken their businesses to a whole new level." "I'd love to hear from you. So if you're ready to take your business to a whole new level, then hit the subscribe button."
DESCRIPTION "Beauty Business Matters" is an essential podcast for ambitious beauty salon and skin clinic professionals. Host Susan Routledge delves into the heart of industry success, interviewing global business experts, outstanding beauty professionals, and leading CEOs from skincare, beauty, and aesthetic equipment companies. Each episode uncovers invaluable insights on thriving in the dynamic and competitive beauty market. From cutting-edge trends to time-tested strategies, listeners gain practical knowledge to elevate their businesses. Whether you're a seasoned owner or an aspiring entrepreneur, this podcast delivers the expertise needed to stay ahead in the ever-evolving beauty industry. Tune in to transform your passion into a flourishing enterprise and join the ranks of beauty's elite.
Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty and the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 27 Jan 2025 | Six Skills a Business Owner Requires | 00:59:35 | |
Susan Routledge engages in an insightful conversation with leadership expert Sue Ingram, who shares her extensive experience in helping beauty business owners enhance their leadership skills. The discussion revolves around the six essential leadership skills necessary for success in the beauty industry, including the importance of having a clear vision, understanding different personality types, and the value of coaching individuals. Sue emphasizes the need for curiosity in managing clients and teams, as well as the significance of involving staff in decision-making processes to foster a collaborative environment.
KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Vision: Business owners need to have a clear vision of who they are, what they deliver, and what differentiates them from competitors. Understanding Personality Types: Recognizing and adapting to different personality types is crucial for effective communication and teamwork. This skill allows business owners to connect with clients and manage diverse teams effectively. Coaching Skills: Developing coaching skills is essential for getting the best out of individuals, whether they are team members or clients. Helping others feel good about themselves enhances their performance and satisfaction. Inclusion in Decision-Making: Involving team members in decision-making fosters a sense of ownership and accountability. This approach prevents a parent-child dynamic and encourages a collaborative work environment.
BEST MOMENTS "If you put out wishy-washy, you get wishy-washy. You'll get clients who don't turn up on time. You'll get clients who don't know what treatment they want." - Susan "Curiosity has to be number one. When someone buys, why are they buying? When someone doesn't buy, why are they not buying?" - Sue "You need to have a vision. You need to know who you are, what you're delivering, and what makes you different from the business down the road." - Sue "I always think you can teach someone skills, but how they present themselves and their attitude is really, really important." - Susan
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/
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| 16 Dec 2024 | Behind the Scenes of Professional Beauty: The Art of Event Management with Mark Maloney | 00:51:01 | |
Susan Routledge sits down with Mark Maloney, the CEO and founder of Professional Beauty Magazine and Trade Exhibitions. They delve into the origins of Mark's company, discussing the challenges faced during its early years, including a lack of profit for the first seven years. Mark shares insights on the evolution of the beauty industry, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration among salon owners and therapists. The conversation highlights the significance of education, the impact of recent economic changes, and the growing demand for advanced treatments. KEY TAKEAWAYS Industry Evolution: The beauty industry has transformed significantly over the years, becoming more democratic and inclusive, with a diverse range of professionals and clients engaging in beauty treatments. Importance of Community: Building relationships within the industry is crucial. Salon owners and therapists often support one another. Value of Education and Events: Events like trade shows and educational sessions are vital for professional growth. Challenges and Adaptability: The industry faces challenges such as rising costs and economic pressures, but these can also lead to innovation and adaptation.
BEST MOMENTS "The salon sector, beauty and hair, but particularly beauty, have a real care about their customers as their teams. And as well as some very savvy business people." - Mark "I always think, you know, clients, if you get your branding right and get your ethos and what your business is about, right and show your expertise, clients are attracted to that." - Susan "I think there'll be even more of a move to results-driven treatments and advanced treatments. I think that's still happening." - Mark "I always like to say, fill in the application. It's like it's one of the best business plans you'll do." - Susan HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://mag.professionalbeauty.co.uk/
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| 19 Mar 2025 | How I Raise My Profile | 00:12:42 | |
In this midweek episode, Susan shares valuable insights on how salon and clinic owners can raise their profiles through the act of giving back. She emphasises the importance of community involvement, highlighting various ways to engage with local charities, schools, and colleges. Susan discusses the benefits of organising charity events, participating in local fairs, and offering mentorship to students, all of which can enhance one's reputation in the beauty industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "Giving back doesn't cost anything. And it is just such a great way to get a great reputation in the industry." "If you are involved with your local colleges, it does mean that you can cherry pick the best students to come and work with you in the future." "Rather than having a moan and a groan about what you think's wrong in the industry, do something positive about it." "We had a competition where the children had to draw what they thought our beauty salon would be like inside." "Even if it's just an hour, it makes such a difference." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR | |||
| 13 Jan 2025 | Building a Beauty Empire: Katie Lowndes Discusses Her Role in Elemis' Australian Expansion | 00:42:26 | |
Susan Routledge sits down with Katie Lowndes, a former therapist from the northeast of England who has carved out an impressive career in the beauty industry. Now based in Melbourne, Australia, Katie shares her remarkable journey from working as a therapist to becoming a key figure in Elemis, where she has played a pivotal role in building distribution in Australia and New Zealand. The conversation delves into Katie's experiences on cruise ships, her transition into training and management, and her passion for continuous learning and personal development. With valuable insights on sales, team dynamics, and the importance of asking the right questions, this episode is packed with golden nuggets for anyone looking to thrive in the beauty business. KEY TAKEAWAYS Embrace Continuous Learning: Always seek opportunities to learn and grow, whether through formal education, training, or personal development. This mindset can lead to new career paths and enhance your skills. Value Feedback: Be open to receiving feedback from others, whether it's from colleagues, mentors, or clients. Listening and reflecting on this feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and personal growth. Utilize Questions in Sales: Effective consultation and sales hinge on asking the right questions. Engaging clients with thoughtful inquiries allows you to understand their needs better and tailor your recommendations accordingly. BEST MOMENTS "Questions are your biggest ally... If you just took the time and actually genuinely asked what's going on and what do you use, they feel amazing because someone's listened to them." - Katie "Sales has left till the very last end thing... But it has to be where not only asking questions, but listening to the answers as well." - Susan "Don't be scared to invest money... Sometimes people are scared to address things that could really make a big difference." - Katie USEFUL LINKS https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. | |||
| 20 Apr 2025 | How Elegant Touch Became the UK Professional Beauty Large Salon of the Year | 00:40:00 | |
Susan welcomes Dan and Anna Inglis, directors of Elegant Touch, who recently achieved the remarkable feat of winning the UK Professional Beauty Large Salon of the Year award on their first attempt. The episode delves into their inspiring journey, from Anna's early passion for beauty and her initial foray into the industry to the couple's strategic growth of their salon, which now boasts a team of 12. They discuss the challenges they faced during the pandemic, the importance of maintaining high standards, and the unique touches that set their salon apart. Listeners will gain insights into their award application process, the significance of teamwork, and how they balance their thriving business with family life. This episode is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in the beauty industry. KEY TAKEAWAYS Passion for the Beauty Industry: Anna has had a long-standing passion for the beauty industry, starting from a young age and continuing through her education and career. Team Development and Growth: The couple emphasizes the importance of building a strong team. They have successfully grown their team from one to twelve members, utilizing a mix of experienced therapists and apprenticeships to ensure quality and consistency in service. Recognition and Awards: Entering and winning industry awards, such as the UK Professional Beauty Large Salon of the Year, has been a significant milestone for Elegant Touch. Work-Life Balance: The importance of maintaining a work-life balance is highlighted, especially after experiencing a health scare. BEST MOMENTS "I chose hair, childcare and beauty, and beauty was the one that I absolutely loved." - Anna "I said yeah go on then, I'll come and see you, forget paying those sorts of fees." - Dan "I think it was a reset for us. I feel like we've never been stronger since then." - Anna "We've looked after people very well from day one. The way Anna looks after them and the empathy that you show them." - Dan
HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.
https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://www.tiktok.com/@beautybusinessmatters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters | |||
| 11 Dec 2024 | The Hidden Dangers of Discounting: Why It Might Hurt Your Salon's Reputation | 00:10:36 | |
In this episode, Susan broaches the topic of discounting in the salon and clinic industry. While she acknowledges that discounts can sometimes attract new clients, she emphasises the potential pitfalls of relying on them as a marketing strategy. Susan shares insights on how deep discounting can devalue treatments and harm a salon's reputation, urging owners to focus on retaining existing clients instead. She offers alternative strategies, such as using add-ons and planning promotions around popular treatments, while also highlighting the importance of understanding the reasons behind client retention issues. KEY TAKEAWAYS
BEST MOMENTS "I'm not saying never discount, but it has to be very, very carefully planned and not something that is just part of your marketing structure." "Discounts can inadvertently show a client that you can afford to do the treatment at a far lesser price, or else why would you be doing the discount?" "It's far easier to make past clients raving fans again with just a little bit of TLC rather than constantly chasing new business." "Instead of thinking of discounts, use add-ons instead. A far better idea is to run a promotion on a busier treatment, linking it to an add-on." "Always have a reason around it, but always as well, plan ahead, so make sure that you're proactive rather than reactive." HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS | |||