Salon IQ

The Sick Pay Shift: New Rules for Salon Businesses in 2026Big changes are coming for UK employers and salon owners need to be prepared. From April 2026, statutory sick pay will apply from the first day of employment, introducing new financial and administrative considerations for salon businesses. In this episode, business coach Caroline Sweeney explains what these reforms mean in practice, from understanding the cost of sick pay to preparing your contracts, policies and record keeping.We also explore the wider changes within the Employment Rights Act 2025, including updates to unfair dismissal rights and why clear documentation and processes will be essential for protecting your business. If you run a salon, this episode breaks down what you need to know to stay compliant, manage risk and plan ahead for the changes coming in 2026.

Why Salons Choose SalonIQ We could talk all day about what SalonIQ can do, but the people who say it best are the salons using it every single day. In this series, we’re bringing together real salon owners to share why they chose SalonIQ, how it supports their business, and the tools they couldn’t live without.From smoother bookings and smarter reporting to support that’s always there when you need it, hear directly from the salons behind the success. Because when salons thrive, so do we.

What if your salon schedule could think for itself?In this episode, we explore how AI is transforming salon scheduling from a daily juggling act into a powerful profit-driving strategy. Think less gap time, smarter appointment placement and more balanced, productive days, without the manual stress.We discuss:Why traditional diary management is costing salons revenueHow AI identifies hidden inefficiencies in your columnThe impact of smarter scheduling on team productivity and client experienceHow technology turns reactive booking into proactive optimisationWhy intelligent scheduling is becoming a competitive advantage in 2026If you want fuller days, smoother operations and a diary that works harder than you do, this episode will show you how AI is playing Tetris with your schedule and winning.

In this episode, we explore how seamless payments are redefining the modern salon experience. From refined checkout journeys to intelligent tipping solutions, discover how elevating your payment systems not only enhances client perception but also drives stronger team performance and sustainable revenue growth. Because true luxury lives in the details.

Big changes are coming for UK employers and salon owners need to be ready.From April 2026, statutory sick pay will apply from day one of employment, bringing new financial and administrative considerations for salon businesses. In this episode, business coach Caroline Sweeney breaks down what these reforms mean in practice, from understanding the costs of SSP to preparing your contracts, policies and record keeping.We also explore the wider changes within the Employment Rights Act 2025, including new unfair dismissal rules and the importance of protecting your business as regulations evolve.If you run a salon, this is essential listening to help you stay informed, compliant and prepared for what’s ahead.

Being fully booked no longer guarantees a healthy salon.In this episode, we explore how 2025 salon benchmarks are reshaping smarter growth strategies for 2026 and why “busy” is not the same as “balanced.”We break down:The key performance benchmarks every salon owner should be trackingWhy profit, productivity and team performance matter more than packed columnsHow data reveals hidden inefficienciesThe shift from reactive management to strategic leadershipHow SalonIQ insights help turn numbers into confident decisionsIf you’re ready to move from constant pressure to controlled, sustainable growth, this episode will show you how to use real benchmarks to build a stronger, more profitable salon in 2026.Download your copy here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rptQk0

In 2026, your salon’s reputation isn’t built by advertising, it’s built by reviews.In this episode, we unpack why five-star feedback has become one of the most powerful growth tools available to modern salon owners. With rising costs, tougher competition and clients researching more than ever before, your online reputation is no longer optional, it’s essential.We explore:Why clients trust other clients more than your marketingThe direct link between reviews, Google rankings and bookingsHow negative or outdated feedback can quietly reduce revenueWhy social proof now influences spending habits and service upgradesHow SalonIQ and salonspy automate verified reviews to fuel growthPlus, we share simple, proven strategies to multiply your reviews, from QR codes at reception to automated post-visit requests and explain why silence online in 2026 is riskier than a bad review.If you want fuller columns, stronger team morale and a reputation that works for you 24/7, this episode will show you how to turn five stars into

An elevated conversation with Sam CEO of SalonIQ and TashCEO from Hob Salon Group, on building more than just a salon - but a brand defined by vision, leadership, and long-term impact. From strategic growth to cultivating culture, this episode explores what it truly takes to scale with intention, refine your craft, and create a business that stands the test of time.A masterclass in modern salon excellence.

Welcome to today's episode where we dive into the fascinating world of AI, self-service technologies, and robots. Today, we are exploring what these innovations mean for consumers, businesses, and how these could transpire into the Hair & Beauty industry

Join us for an inspiring episode as we sit down with Kimberley, an accomplished salon owner who has mastered the art of team motivation. Discover practical tips and heartfelt stories that will elevate your leadership skills and invigorate your team's performance. Key Highlights: Building a Positive Culture: Learn how to cultivate a supportive and creative work environment. Motivational Techniques: Explore proven strategies to keep your team engaged and motivated. Overcoming Challenges: Hear real-life stories of triumph over common salon industry hurdles. Leadership Insights: Gain valuable wisdom on becoming a more effective and approachable leader. Tune in for an episode packed with actionable advice and success stories that will leave you and your team motivated and ready to achieve new heights.

Join us as we dive into Sizzling Summer Salon Strategies. As the summer heats up, so does the competition. Discover innovative marketing campaigns that will not only attract clients to your salon but also keep them coming back.

The Importance of an Online Presence for Salons: Insights from Sam and Cara. In today's digital age, establishing an online presence is crucial for the success of any salon business. Sam, our COO, and Cara, our Operations Manager, share their insights about the transformative impact of being online.

We speak with our special guest Cara who is an educator at SalonIQ. Cara has been at the forefront of working and helping many, many Salon Owners during the pandemic of Covid-19 and lockdown.  Cara gives her view on what salons have been doing during this time as well as a little personal tip which we love, listen to find out more!

How many times have you heard the saying, life is what you make it? I know I have heard this so many times, but only recently has the true meaning of this statement really meant something to me. Listen to SalonIQ's amazing start to 2021...

Yes 2020 has ben a very different year but that doesn't mean to say we can't have a great Christmas.  If you haven't done so already now is the time to plan, plan your rosters, party packages (albeit virtual parties) and much much more!

What is your retention percentage? If you don't yet know then you could be missing out on looking after your existing clients. This episode looks at a sequence of SMS and emails that truly work and are working right now for many salons using SalonIQ.

Our latest podcast talks through the various ways you can manage your cancellations during lockdown.  We may not have the green flag right now to re-open our doors however, you can certainly start planning for it to ease the pressure a little when you do re-open. Editorial and video also available on this subject here -> https://saloniq.com/managing-your-cancellations/

Do you want the busiest Christmas you have ever had? If your answer is yes then you need to listen to this Podcast to make sure you have everything covered and more!

I'm sure you are like me in that if something isn't written down or you do not get a reminder there is a chance you will forget? This episode takes you through clients that you have looked after in the last 6 months and what you should do to get them into the salon for the last quarter of 2019

If this is you, then you need to re-think... Christmas is fast approaching now we are on the later part of this year, so no doubt you will only be working more and more hours over the festive season.  Be prepared this Christmas and try not to burn yourself out. This episode talks you through what you need to think about when it comes to your salon opening hours and team rosters...