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 Maintaining relationships with ex-employees can lead to their return, as they may realize their new choices were not ideal. Keeping in touch can facilitate easier reintegration into the salon. Clearly define the qualities and skills you are looking for in potential employees. A well-defined job specification attracts the right candidates and helps avoid wishy-washy applications. Build a strong reputation through awards, social media presence, and engagement with local colleges. This makes your salon a desirable place for therapists to work. Encourage your current team and clients to recommend potential candidates. They may know talented therapists looking for new opportunities or those who are moving into the area. Use a multi-step selection process that includes initial Zoom interviews, trade testing by team members, and self-assessment of skills. This helps ensure that the chosen candidate is both competent and a good fit for the team. 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://susanroutledge.com https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ SPONSOR https://www.phorest.com/

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