The Hair Industry New Normal

After the Pandemic, The New Normal for the Beauty Industry

Whether you are a barber, cosmetologist, esthetician, massage therapist, makeup artist, tattooist, Nail tech or etc., The Covid -19 Pandemic turned the beauty industry upside down. We did not know what hit us and for some of us we were not prepared. I understand money is limited and at some point, we all will have to return to work. When we return it will not be the same, we will be faced with a new unfamiliar normal that we must adhere to. For some of us we won’t know where to start an that’s why reading this article and Chapter 5 infection control of your Milady Cosmetology Book is so important on giving you a few pointers on adjusting to the “New Normal”.    

Let us refer to this pandemic as a game of Chess.  I have always loved the game of chess.  I have solved many problems by knowing how to play this game. In this game of chess, the King represents your business. Your King is under attack and every possible move if not performed correctly by the King will also put it in check. If your king is checkmated, you lose everything that you have worked hard for and you miss out on opportunities to help your business grow. You can prevent this by ensuring that your business is better prepared for the future and the” New Normal”. Remember knowledge is power especially in the game of Chess. This article will not only help you be better prepared for the new normal but also give you insight on some programs available to you.

The first thing that you want to do is establish control of your business by making good opening moves:

1. Hire an accountant knowledgeable of the tax laws

2. Do not operate your business like an enemy.

3. Obtain an EIN number.

4. Register with the Secretary of State.

The number one reason why some businesses did not get the Paycheck Protection Program money is because of the flaws in their business structure. An EIN and Secretary of State registration will be beneficial to the structuring of your business. Please note that Secretary of State registration fees are paid annually. You must stay active with the state, there is just no way around it. You do not want to be left behind any longer. Get with some real chess players; associates that are knowledgeable of the business and that can be of help to you.

Secondly in the game of chess, you don’t want to give away anything free;

You want to refer to your state board website for guidelines and addtional requirements regarding you and your client safety during the COVID 19 pandemic. You might have to charge your clients for mask or other safety things you might have to purchase and remember your business cannot afford to give them away for free nor can you afford a fine or a lawsuit by not adhering to these new guidelines.

If you know the game chess then you know that you cannot usually checkmate the king with just one piece, it takes many pieces working together to checkmate. Often you will need a piece to check the king, and at least one piece defending the checking pieces so the king cannot take it. Remember the enemy is this virus and your staff is the other pieces. You and your staff must come up with a plan to protect the king.

Example plan: Rene keep the towers clean at all time; Betty makes sure the floor is clean; Sara make sure all counter surfaces stay disinfect; Kathy make sure the trash is empty; Mike make sure all bathroom is clean; .As Hair Stylist I know about your favorite comb. But your favorite comb is not an option in this game of chest, purchase a box of disposable combs that you can throw away. Also invest in the disinfectant spray that barbers use to spray clippers.

Thirdly, you want to watch the safety of your own king….

Sometimes players get so focused on their opponent's king that they forget to watch

their own. This virus is dangerous you cannot get caught up in been careless!

You must wash your hands, Disinfectant your chairs, and shampoo bowl after every client.

Always Remember, the other player is playing too and will also be attacking your king. (coronavirus the other player) Make sure to look at the threats created by every move your opponent makes by staying educated on what is going on. One of the best ways to make your king safe is to place your king behind some defensive pawns. (Mask, Gloves, Disposables Capes, Disposable combs, Shield etc.).

Remember if you want to be a Chess Champ It does not happen overnight; it takes a lot of learning and practicing. It is so crucial to have your paperwork in order. You can also enroll in some continuing education classes to keep your salon operating at State Board Standards. These classes are currently being offered online by Touch by angel beauty School. https://www.touchedbyanangelbeautyschool.com/ I pray for all Hairstylist, Barber, Nail Technician, Esthetician, Makeup Artist etc. I would never have thought in a million years we would be at a serious time in our career