Shearious Question: Are “Quick” or “Express” Services Worth My Time? Some of my salon friends have suggested I create a quick or express menu with shortened versions of my most popular services (I.e. a blowout.) I’m concerned though that I’ll end up spending too much time or using too much product because I want it to be done right and lose money in the process. How can I make sure I make a profit from these services?

Express services can certainly be lucrative for many salon professionals. The concept behind express services is quite simple: they are a modified version of a full treatment. 

Express services are a great way to introduce customers to new treatments, as it provides busy professionals options to enjoy services while fitting into their busy schedules.  These Express Services can also be a great way to fill your appointment books. If you find you have a few 30-minute appointment slots available, what better way to fill them and generate additional revenue?

Many salons or spas create an Express Service Menu that showcases "shortened" versions of their most popular menu services. An example would be your signature blowout, but instead of using a curling or straightening iron to add styling at the end like you might for a full blowout, the express version simply includes the wash and blow drying. You can also add a section to your current menu or create an additional “express” menu that can easily be stuffed into product bags, handed out as your guest's check-in for their appointments, etc.

To be successful and see a profit when offering “express” services you must take into consideration two critical factors. #1: How much time you’ll book for the service/treatment.  #2: How much product or supplies you will use to excite the treatment. If you crunch your numbers, you might find you can have the ability to generate more revenue by offering express services, than full treatment services.  

I highly recommend you stay clear of cutting prices when creating your menu. After all, the goal is to generate additional revenue, not give your time away and products away for free.

Photo: alekso94  

Breaking It Down

In this post, we talked about the benefits of having an express service menu for your salon, spa, or shop so that you can increase your profits and let clients "sample" some of your signature services. Here are two tools that can help you implement this service menu:

Persuasive Speech and Communication Online Class
Sometimes a client could really use a service but they might be unsure about the price tag or time involved. An express service would be perfect for them, but how do you convince them? This online class will walk you through communicating persuasively.

Sales and Marketing Basics Online Class

Believe it or not, launching an express service menu requires quite a bit of good marketing. This online class will teach you the basics needed to successfully launch your express menu.