ist magazine January 2023

Notes from the Road

New Year, NewGoals By Lisa Saavedra

As we begin 2023, it’s time to reflect on the years past, as well as look forward to what is ahead. The best way to set yourself and your salon up for success is to have a clear plan. “How?” you ask? The ideal type of planning includes setting achievable goals for yourself, your staff and your business. This month, we will explore goal-setting so you have a clear vision of what “success” means for you in the New Year. Define your version of success. What does success mean to you? It’s imperative to evaluate your previous year – what were your weaknesses? Was it low customer counts or per-person sales averages? EFT conversion rates? That is the great thing about “success” – it is whatever you define it to be. Achieving success can mean devoting energy to improving any aspect of your business; but as long as you’ve clearly defined your version of success, it will become far more attainable. Communicate your goals to your team. Clear and achievable goals will not only motivate your staff, but help them

stay on track to accomplish them. If they do not know your core values, what they are working toward, you can’t expect your team to be mind-readers and just guess what is expected of them. Create clear and concise goals and establish rewards that are not only attainable, but also quantifiable – and you may just be surprised by the results you achieve. Make room for evolution. It is okay if other things come up throughout the year that you feel are in need of your attention; this is a normal part of business operation. There is no rule stating that you can only have one singular goal. It is acceptable (and encouraged) to pivot your focus and re evaluate – in fact, regularly reevaluating and setting new goals will also help keep your team engaged and motivated. Managing a business has many challenges, but preparing for potential roadblocks is critical to the success of any infrastructure. Planning and execution need to go hand-in-hand in order to improve in any aspect of life; but especially in a business environ ment. The best way to position yourself

for a successful future is to reflect on the past. If you don’t know where you came from, how can you know where you are going … and how to get there? As long as you’ve clearly defined your version of success, it will become far more attainable.

My best wishes for a successful and Happy New Year! n

About the Author: As Director of Brand Development for Devoted Creations’ family of brands, Lisa brings 17 years of industry experience, knowledge and

enthusiasm to all aspects of the business, including social media, product development, training, customer relations, public speaking and marketing strategies. Lisa worked at the salon level managing a large chain of salons, which infuses her sales training and brand concepts with real world experience.

Lisa has been chosen the IST Magazine “Person of the Year” five times.

Visual Generation / stock.adobe.com

Commit to Your Tan

32

January 2023 istmagazine.com