How to book more of your Instagram followers as a hairstylist or esthetician
As a beauty professional, you might wonder why so many of your Instagram followers remain just that—followers. They seem to be interested, yet they’ve never booked an appointment with you. What gives? A significant reason could be their hesitation, shyness, or even social anxiety about stepping into a new salon or spa environment. But fear not; there’s a way to turn those hesitations into excitement with a few strategic tweaks to your marketing approach.
Understanding the Hesitant Follower:
According to research, about 30% of the population is introverted, often feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of new social interactions. Walking into a new salon or meeting a new esthetician can be daunting, even for the extroverts among us. Recognizing this challenge means you're halfway to creating a comforting and welcoming environment for your potential clients.
Creating a Safe Haven Online:
Firstly, consider offering a ‘New Client Special’ that feels more like an invitation rather than just another service. Pin this offer to the top of your Instagram feed and include it in your story highlights. Think of it as a welcoming package that speaks directly to those who might be anxious—full of goodies and educational tidbits about what to expect.
Candid Story Sharing:
Employ a personal approach to demystify the first appointment experience. Share a video tour of your salon, walking potential clients through every step of their visit. Show them where they’ll park, how they’ll be greeted, and what the appointment will entail. Visual familiarity can alleviate much of the initial anxiety.
Personalized Communication:
Make your DM interactions feel warm and personal. Ask questions, send voice messages, and provide detailed responses that match the energy and personality they would experience in person. Being approachable and engaging in messages helps bridge the gap between online presence and real-world engagement.
Sharing Your Story:
Reveal a bit of you. Clients want to connect with a real person, not just a business. Share stories and experiences that highlight your journey, your expertise, and even your hesitations. This authenticity can make you relatable and approachable, especially to those introverts who need a little extra encouragement to reach out.
Conclusion:
Your followers are just like you and me—they have reservations, questions, and insecurities. By implementing these strategies on platforms like Instagram, you ensure that these barriers crumble away, leaving room for curiosity and, eventually, commitment to book an appointment. So take these steps, engage authentically, and watch as those shy followers become your most enthusiastic clients. Share your experiences or any techniques that you've found helpful in nurturing these relationships. Let’s build a community where clients feel both welcomed and cherished.