Holiday Prep
Published: October 06, 2008
By Laurel Smoke

We often don’t think of this time of year as a time to build business. Usually, specials, upselling and client contests are saved for January, when business is slow. However, now is actually the best time to boost business. You can punch up your revenues with these three steps:

1. Have a special consultation. Talk to your client about what’s going on in her life during this holiday season. Have her list any office parties she has to attend, any gatherings she’s hosting, family get togethers, etc.
   
   
2. Create a schedule. Explain to her how busy your schedule is this time of year and encourage her to prebook appointments now, so she’ll have fresh color and a new cut for important events over the holidays. You should also encourage her to prebook mani/pedi appointments and even an appointment for an updo if she has a formal affair to attend.
   
   
3. Retail, retail, retail. These holiday appointments are a great opportunity for retailing. Does she need a last-minute gift for her son’s teacher? Show her your gift sets. Stocking stuffer for her daughter? How about a bottle of nail polish? And don’t forget to sell her the products she needs to maintain the gorgeous look you just gave her!