The Salon Hiring Playbook
Recruit, interview, and retain stylists in a tight labor market.
8 min read
Where to recruit — local cosmetology school graduations, Instagram outreach, employee referral bonuses (most effective).
Working interview — paid half-day on the floor; you see real skill and bedside manner, they see your culture.
Compensation models — commission, booth rent, hybrid. Commission attracts juniors; booth rent attracts established stylists with their own books.
Retention — continuing education budget, predictable schedules, and a path to senior pricing.