What to Do When Business Is Slow During the Holidays: Prep Your Business for a Successful 2025

1. Build Your Online Presence: Be Found Where Clients Are Searching
If your business doesn’t have a website—or if your current one is outdated—this is the perfect time to create or revamp it. A professional, well-designed website ensures that potential clients can easily find you and book services. Think of it as your 24/7 business card!

Why It Matters:
-Most clients search for services on Google before deciding where to book.
-A website builds credibility and positions you as a professional.
-It allows you to showcase your work, list your services, and make booking simple.

How to Get Started:
Use pre-made website templates like the ones we offer to simplify the process. These templates are designed for hairstylists and business owners, with easy plug-and-go setups that save you time and money. https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheSarahCollective

Include essential elements on your website:
-A portfolio of your best work.
-An easy-to-use booking form.
-Client testimonials to build trust.
-A blog or FAQs to share your expertise.

2. Create Systems for Client Inquiries: Save Time and Reduce Back-and-Forth
Are you spending too much time answering the same questions via DMs or emails? A slow season is the ideal time to implement systems that streamline client communication and reduce the need for constant back-and-forth.

Why It Matters:
-Systems save time and create a smoother experience for you and your clients.
-Professional communication helps convert inquiries into bookings.
-Automation allows you to focus on delivering great services rather than administrative tasks.

How to Get Started:
1. Automate FAQs and Bookings:
-Add a FAQ section to your website to address common questions like pricing, policies, and extension options.
-Use a booking platform that integrates with your website to automate appointment scheduling.
2. Create Pre-Written Responses:
-Draft response templates for common inquiries and save them in your email or social media platforms.
Example: “Hi [Client Name], thanks for reaching out! You can find my availability and book directly through this link: [Website Link]. Let me know if you have any questions!”
3. Set Up an Inquiry Form:
-Add a form to your website where potential clients can fill out their details and needs. This ensures you have all the information you need to respond efficiently.

3. Plan Your Content Strategy: Stay Consistent to Attract More Clients
Consistency is key to growing your brand and staying top-of-mind for your audience. The slow season is a great time to map out a content calendar for 2025, so you’re always prepared with ideas and posts.

Why It Matters:
-Consistent posting builds trust and keeps your business visible.
-A clear content strategy helps you connect with your ideal audience.
-Planning ahead prevents the stress of last-minute posts.

How to Get Started:
1.Define Your Audience:
-Think about who you want to target in 2025. Are they new clients? Other stylists? Returning clients looking for specific services? Tailor your content to their needs.
2. Outline a Content Calendar:
-Plan your posts for each week or month. Include: Tutorials and transformation videos, behind-the-scenes content, FAQs and tips for clients.
– Use scheduling tools like Later or the Plann app to automate posting and stay on track.
3. Batch Create Content:
-Take a day to shoot photos and videos or write captions for upcoming posts. This ensures you always have content ready to go.
-Incorporate Seasonal Themes: Highlight New Year transformations, upcoming trends, and reasons to book early for 2025.

4. Use Downtime to Learn and Grow
Slow periods are the perfect time to invest in your professional growth. Take an online class, attend a workshop, or explore ways to improve your skills and services.

Why It Matters:
-Learning new techniques keeps your business competitive.
-Offering unique services attracts new clients.
-Growth ensures you’re ready to meet new trends head-on.

How to Get Started:
1. Look for online courses in areas you want to improve, like extension installation, color techniques, or social media marketing.
2. Block out time each week to dedicate to learning something new.

5. Prepare for 2025 with Goal Setting
Finally, use this time to reflect on what worked in 2024 and set clear goals for the upcoming year. Think about what you want to achieve in terms of revenue, client retention, and personal growth.

Why It Matters:
-Setting goals gives you direction and focus.
-It helps you measure success and stay motivated.
-Prepping early ensures you start the year strong.

How to Get Started:
1. Break your goals into categories:
-Business Growth: Increase new client bookings by 20%.
-Skill Development: Learn a new installation technique.
-Revenue: Introduce a new service or retail product to boost income.
-Write down actionable steps to achieve each goal and track your progress throughout the year.

The holiday season doesn’t have to feel unproductive. By focusing on building a website, creating systems, planning your content, and setting goals, you’ll be setting your business up for success in 2025. Remember, the effort you put in during slower times pays off when clients come rushing back. The first 2 chapters of my 40 Day Business Makeover book are available on the homepage if you want to dig deep into what’s working and not working for your career!

With love and gratitude, Katie Agahi