Thriving Stylist Podcast: Episode #391 - My Rough Start as a Salon Leader

Release Date: June 23, 2025
Host: Britt Seva

Introduction

In Episode #391 of the Thriving Stylist Podcast, host Britt Seva delves into her personal journey of navigating the tumultuous beginnings of her role as a salon leader. This episode offers invaluable insights into the challenges faced, the lessons learned, and the strategies developed to overcome obstacles in salon management. Britt's candid storytelling provides a roadmap for aspiring and current salon owners seeking to build a resilient and thriving business.

Background of Britt's Salon Leadership

Britt begins by setting the stage of her early days in the beauty industry. Joining a well-established salon in the San Francisco Bay Area in 2007, she stepped into a role that was far more complex than initially anticipated.

“I joined as an assistant, but soon it was clear that my natural skills positioned me to take on more responsibilities.” (00:02)

The salon was co-owned by a CEO and a Chief Training Officer (CTO), alongside a manager responsible for front desk operations. The CEO, a visionary who had built the salon since the early '90s, was beloved for his loyal clientele but did not partake in hairstyling himself. The CTO, a powerhouse in revenue generation, was primarily seen as a mentor and the public face of the company rather than a traditional executive.

Challenges Faced as a New Leader

Britt recounts the significant challenges she encountered when unexpectedly thrust into a leadership position due to the departure of the former manager.

“There was a lot that had taken place... I got to a place where I just couldn't do it anymore.” (00:47)

The sudden need to step in as the interim manager led to a chaotic environment. Britt highlights the lack of preparation and support from the salon owners, which exacerbated the difficulties of her new role.

“If you as an owner are ever telling your team members to lie or keep secrets, you're probably doing something wrong.” (Timestamp not specified)

This episode underscores the toxic culture that can emerge when leadership lacks transparency and honesty. The owners' decision to handle the manager's departure behind closed doors without proper communication led to distrust and a fractured team dynamic.

Leadership Lessons Learned

Through her adversities, Britt gleaned several crucial leadership lessons that shaped her approach to managing a salon effectively.

1. Honesty and Transparency:

   Britt emphasizes the importance of honesty in leadership. She reflects on her mistake of being put in a position where she had to cover for the owners' lack of transparency.

   “There has to be trust and honesty in everything that you do.” (Timestamp not specified)

2. Prioritizing the Team:

   Drawing inspiration from Simon Sinek's Leaders Eat Last, Britt highlights that as a salon owner, prioritizing the team above clients and oneself is paramount.

   “Their priorities always have to come first. So those I had been in the trenches with already knew me and knew that I'd have their back.” (Timestamp not specified)

3. Servant Leadership:

   Adopting a servant leadership mindset, Britt focused on making her team’s lives easier rather than exerting authority.

   “Trust and support is what Good Leadership foundation is built upon.” (Timestamp not specified)

Steps for Effective Leadership

Britt outlines actionable steps that salon owners and leaders should take to foster a positive and productive work environment.

1. Establish Clear Job Descriptions and KPIs:

   “If you have anybody working in your building right now without a job description and KPIs, you're already set up to fail.” (Timestamp not specified)

2. Implement a Structured Training Plan:

   A formal 90-day training plan ensures that new leaders are well-prepared to handle their responsibilities.

   “There was an idea, but I basically had to tape this whole thing together because there was no firm and set processes for really anything.” (Timestamp not specified)

3. Conduct One-on-One Listening Sessions:

   Personal meetings with each team member help gauge their feelings and address their concerns effectively.

   “How do you feel about me coming on as a leader?” (Timestamp not specified)

4. Lead by Example:

   Britt underscores the importance of leaders being willing to “get in the trenches” and assist with day-to-day tasks.

   “I'm down to get dirty. If a manager comes into your business and they don't spend the first 30, 60, 90 days with a broom in their hand... probably the wrong person.” (Timestamp not specified)

5. Foster Trust and Support:

   Building a foundation of trust encourages team members to remain loyal and committed.

   “Good leaders care truly about those they're privileged to lead and understand that the true cost of leadership privilege comes at the expense of self-interest.” (Timestamp not specified)

Conclusion

In wrapping up, Britt reflects on her tenure as a salon leader, acknowledging both her mistakes and the successes that followed. Despite the rocky start, her commitment to servant leadership and organizational improvement led to significant revenue growth and a stronger team dynamic.

“If you're willing to do the work as a leader and you're willing to put systems and processes in place and be humble and accountable, anything is possible in leadership.” (Timestamp not specified)

Britt's journey serves as a testament to the importance of honest leadership, continuous learning, and prioritizing the well-being of the team. Her experiences provide a valuable blueprint for salon owners aiming to create a supportive and thriving work environment.

Key Takeaways

• Honesty is Non-Negotiable: Transparent communication fosters trust and prevents toxic work environments.

• Prioritize Your Team: A successful salon is built on the foundation of a happy and supported team.

• Structured Leadership: Clear roles, responsibilities, and training plans are essential for effective management.

• Lead by Example: Demonstrating willingness to handle all aspects of the business encourages team respect and loyalty.

• Continuous Improvement: Always seek ways to make your team's work life easier and more fulfilling.

Britt Seva's Thriving Stylist Podcast Episode #391 offers a profound exploration of leadership within the salon industry, highlighting the intricate balance between managing business operations and nurturing a dedicated team. Aspiring salon owners and leaders can draw inspiration and practical strategies from Britt's honest and insightful narrative.