Measuring What Matters: Why Performance Conversations Build Stronger Salon Teams

At MySalonManager, we often remind owners that performance coaching your team isn’t something to avoid; it’s part of salon life. When done well, it builds trust, confidence, and authenticity, the same qualities that make any relationship work.

Words like “trust” and “authenticity” have made their way into workplaces, and that’s no bad thing. But just like in relationships outside of the salon, brushing problems under the rug doesn’t create happiness; it creates distance. Performance management gives you a safe space to be honest about what’s working and what’s not, so your team can grow together.

“Talking about performance isn’t pressure, it’s care in action.” - Raymond (Co-Director)

Focus on One Thing First: Track New Clients in Your Salon

If you’re not already tracking your salon’s new client percentage, this is a simple, meaningful place to start. It tells you how visible your salon is and how effective your marketing really feels to clients.

A healthy benchmark is around 10–20% new clients each month. Below that, you may be too reliant on regulars. Above it, you might need to focus more on retention and rebooking.

Practical Ways to Use New Client Data in Your Salon

Once you’re tracking new client numbers, the real value comes from how you use them. Here are a few quick ways to turn those figures into focus and growth:

• Spot your quiet months.

  Compare new client numbers across the year. Use quieter times to test offers or awareness campaigns.

  
  

• See where they come from.

  Track how new clients find you, Google, social media, and referrals, so you know where to double down.

  
  

• Keep it part of the conversation.

  Discuss results with your team. When you bring performance into regular chats, it stops being scary and starts building trust.

Salon KPIs That Strengthen Performance and Culture

Performance coaching isn’t about catching people out; it’s about helping them thrive. A quick review of your numbers, even just one, whether it’s rebooking, takings versus target, retail versus takings, or treatment sales, can open up the kind of honest, grounded conversations that make your salon stronger, calmer, and more connected.

Measure what matters to strengthen your people, your profit, and your purpose. Benefits of Being a MySalonManager Member

Members can catch up with our full November discussion in the Members’ Area and enjoy access to our complete library of courses designed to help you grow your business with clarity and confidence.

Not a member yet? We offer a free 20-minute strategy call with our Directors, a relaxed chat to help you understand how we can support your salon, talk through your biggest challenge, or explore your next stage of growth.

👉 Book your free call here