Sustainable Salon Software: 3 Steps to Get You Started
Going green requires effort, but not as much as you might think. In fact, adopting modern technology saves you time and money, and can save the environment at the same time.
It can be hard to change the way we do business. We get so used to doing things a certain way. In our modern world however, there are tools available that can make our lives, and businesses, run much more smoothly. These tools also reflect society’s shifting priorities: to reduce our environmental footprint in the workplace.
Here are a few examples of modern technologies functioning to serve a greater good:
1) Communicate with customers online
Emailing customers has become commonplace for businesses today, but that’s not the only way you can communicate online. Have a quick think about any places you might still be using paper. Do you print invoices? Mail payments? Send out flyers? Print coupons? All of these things can (and should) be done online.
Salon Software examples: Mailchimp, Campaign Monitor.
If you’re still advertising with print materials, it’s time to consider your online options. Digital marketing is the new standard, and there are so many options available to you. Check out our blog post on different digital marketing activities for your business.
Salon Software examples: Google AdWords, Facebook Ads.
Going paperless will lower costs, increase margins, and speed up your processes. You’ll look more modern and professional, and both existing and potential customers will notice this. More importantly though, you’ll be operating a more sustainable business.
2) Implement Online Office Tools
Many businesses have taken the plunge and moved their documentation into the cloud, meaning staff members can access their files from any location. As well as providing a permanent backup, certain cloud services allow companies to attend meetings, collaborate on projects, and even work from home.
Salon software examples: Google Hangouts, Slack, Skype.
Cloud software is secure, private and allows organisations to determine who has access to particular tools and documents. Best of all, it’s paper free. You’ll save money on printing and photocopying while doing the environment a favour at the same time! We’d be willing to bet your business operates more effectively as well. If it’s a possibility for your business, doing some of your jobs from home will also reduce emissions and save you travel costs.
Salon software examples: Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox.
3) Offer Digital Products
If you sell physical products, make sure you offer them online as well. It’s often said that selling things on your website is like hiring a 24/7 salesperson at no cost. Make the most of it! It’s not just good business, it’s good for the environment as well. Customers won’t need to drive to your store just to pick up a new product.
Have a look at your stock and determine which physical products can be converted to digital downloads. Things like vouchers can easily be purely digital. As well as converting existing products, brainstorm new things you might be able to sell on your website. This could be training videos, helpful ebooks, product manuals, audio recordings, and other content that your customers may find valuable. Your knowledge and expertise is marketable, so capitalise on it!
Salon Software examples: Shopify, WooCommerce.
Many businesses find success in running a series of blog posts or adding videos to their online profiles. You’ll be surprised how willing your customers are to contribute the discussion, perhaps even adding their own tips in the comments areas or rating their favourite content.
Salon Software examples: YouTube, Facebook, Twitter.
Like salons, more companies are taking a sustainable approach to business for many of the same reasons. It’s because of this that eco-friendly products and methods are becoming more ubiquitous. The ‘green option’ is no longer the most expensive, and when given the choice consumers will favour eco-friendly businesses.
Sustainability and eco-friendliness are now common, and widespread goals. It’s important to note that sustainable practices are not adopted by the business, but by the people who run them. Consumers notice when a business owner has a genuine interest in operating sustainably and because of this, your customers will engage better and attract like-minded people to your business.
Engage with customers around common eco-friendly goals, and consider creating a press release to generate positive media attention. Start small. Use the tools we’ve suggested to make your business as environmentally friendly as possible. Once your customers see you as an environmentally conscious business, engage with them in ways that benefit them, your organisation and most importantly: the environment.
