We recently connected with Katey Hodge and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Katey thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later

If I could go back in time, I would have started my business sooner. I opened my salon suite in 2016 after working in a chain salon in the mall for eight years. I started in that salon straight from cosmetology school, and other than my internship, it was my only experience in the salon world. It’s a scary leap going from commission based pay to renting your own space and buying supplies. At least you had a minimum wage to fall back on just incase was always a thought in the back of my mind. But, once I realized how much money I was actually making for someone else, vs what I could be bringing home, I was ready to make that leap. Thankfully I had coworkers who were also ready branch out as well, making the process less scary.
When I left my original salon, I had a full book of clients that I’m very proud to say all followed me to my new salon space. That was for sure something that was holding me back, would they follow me or would I have to build a new following. If I would have trusted my gut more, I could have left a few years earlier, given myself much more freedom to enjoy life, a better work/life balance, and the ability to retain the money I was making.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I own and operate a private salon suite in Dayton Ohio. I have been a licensed advanced cosmetologist for 15 years. My specialties are short hair cuts and vivid colors. I am very proud that my salon is an inclusive gender neutral safe place. I want everyone who comes into my suite to feel welcome and have a good time!

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

Word of mouth has been the most effective strategy for growing my clientele. In the beginning of my career I offered referral discounts for my clients and anyone new they sent to me. Also, having unified social media handles that are easy to remember. Mine is @kateythestylist, makes it super easy for a client to share when they are out and about and get a compliment on their hair!

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I lesson I had to unlearn when I opened my own salon is that sometimes you have to tell your client no if the intended results are not possible. I started in a salon where no wasn’t said a lot, instead a waiver was signed, because they never wanted to turn a client away. It definitely was a hard lesson at first, but if a situation makes you uncomfortable, it’s not worth your mental wellness.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kateythestylist.com
• Instagram: www.instgram.com/kateythestylist
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/kateythestylist
• Other: https://pin.it/2TpK8MJJc