In the inaugural episode, Susan welcomes Ronan Perceval from Phorest Software, marking a significant reunion after 12 years since their first meeting. Susan and Ronan discuss the challenges salon owners face, the importance of enthusiasm and energy in business, and how innovative solutions like text message reminders transformed the industry. They also touch on the evolution of salon practices, the impact of technology, and the significance of fostering a positive company culture.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. The journey of Forrest Software began with a genuine love for the salon industry, highlighting the importance of enthusiasm and energy in driving business success.

2. The foundation of Forrest was built on identifying and solving specific problems faced by salon owners, such as appointment no-shows and marketing challenges.

3. Successful salon owners exhibit a willingness to learn and adapt, which is crucial for growth.

4. Establishing clear values within a business helps attract like-minded individuals and fosters a positive work environment.

5. Events like the Forrest Summit create opportunities for salon owners to connect and share experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"I want to tell us a little bit about the phorest journey. Everyone starts with a wild dream and one customer, and then it's what happens from there."

"I fell in love with the industry... People were coming in, really looking forward to coming in. This was like the highlight of their day or week."

"We found out that was the first ever SMS promotion ever in the world for her beauty salon. But we didn't know that at the time."

"What are some of the things that you see that make that big difference and that big shift between a salon that's just coasting along and the ones that are flying?"

"If you lose that, I think the soul of your business kind of goes out."

HOST BIO

Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication.

Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive.

Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty and the Best" 1 and 2.

She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars.

Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.

USEFUL LINKS

https://susanroutledge.com

https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/

https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters

https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/blueprint-masterclass

SPONSOR

https://www.phorest.com/

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