Nail salons are often individually owned and operated businesses and the industry is booming.  There are more than 500,000 nail technicians in the United States. Because of the low start up costs, readily available training and large demand, business owners are finding the nail salon business extremely rewarding.

According to many nail salon owners, the key to success in this lucrative industry is to create bonds with your clients. If your employees can connect with customers, then customers are more likely to remain loyal to your salon and will become regular customers.

As a result, a customer’s first impression of your salon is essential to how often they come back. So you want to make the best first impression possible. Aside from training your employees to be personable and communicate with clients, a big factor in first impressions is the physical surroundings in a salon.

One thing people look for when selecting a nail salon is the cleanliness of the space. Unfortunately, the industry is plagued by bad press about salons that have not followed proper cleaning protocol. In order to avoid being associated with these stores, make your store sparkle.

Using light colors, such as white or light gray keep customers at ease because lighter colors visually look cleaner and don’t hide dirt. Most nail salons keep decorations simple. This is because it is easier to keep the store clean and clutter free when you employ a minimalist style.

Also, use glass display cases and register counters. These clear cases can be easily cleaned and brighten up your store by showing off different nail polishes and finishes.

Your customers spend all of their time sitting at your salon, whether in the waiting area, in the pedicure chair or while getting a manicure. Keep this in mind when selecting seating for your salon. Stay away from fabrics that can’t be cleaned (accidental nail polish spills and smudges happen very often) but consider spending a little extra on comfortable seating.

Remember, people come into a nail salon to be pampered, so by making sure your chairs, displays and counters are clean and welcoming, your clients are bound to become repeat customers.