We want to make a difference…starting with ourselves.

Recent events have shone a bright light on the critical need to banish racism, violence and any/all shortcomings of opportunity for the Black community. These events have also shone a bright light on Strategies’ part in this mission, as well.

We have not done enough to understand and support the unique challenges that Black entrepreneurs face compared to others. But we are committed to learn, and to adjust our practices to support them through these challenges to the best of our ability.

We will also be looking inward to ensure all policies, practices and opportunities within our organization are diversified and free of racism. We know we can do better at this, because we have not put in the effort to ensure that we are not.

The same holds true for our role in our community. We can do better.

The lesson we have learned with Black Lives Matter is that change has to begin with each and every one of us. We must listen and learn, so that we are better prepared to offer our support to those that desperately need it…as equals.... Read More

Last week’s blog post was about the importance of “resilience” — the ability to become strong, healthy, or successful again after something bad happens.

This week, I write about the “courage” to implement long-overdue change.

As the reopening begins, my biggest fear is that many salons and spas will reopen with the same flawed systems they shut down with. Throughout this crisis, I’ve been saying, “If your business wasn’t in good shape at shut down, it’s going to be tough when you reopen.”

Reopening and getting your business financially healthy requires a heck of a lot more than getting employees back on payroll, implementing safety protocols and rescheduling clients.

A house must be built on a solid foundation. If the foundation is weak, floors will sag, walls will crack, and the house will be unsafe. Simply put, if the foundation is weak, everything it supports is compromised.... Read More

A short personal story

On June 7, 2017, I was hit by a van while on a training ride. I spent 20 days in the hospital, had surgery to fix a fractured left hip socket, broken ribs, and lots of high-quality bruises. Never before had I experienced such incredible pain.

Hell yes, I was angry that a distracted driver made me another “cyclist hit by vehicle” statistic. I also knew that anger and being a “victim” wouldn’t get me out of that hospital bed and walking again. That’s when my focus shifted to recovery and getting back on my bike.

That summer was brutally tough. I worked with my physical therapist and gradually regained my strength. That Labor Day, with my surgeon’s permission, and balancing help from Joanne, I got on my bike trainer and lightly pedaled. It was a small victory that felt hugely wonderful.

Four months after the accident, on October 1st, I did my first ride outside. Words can’t describe the many emotions I felt during that short ride.... Read More

First, some background…

My passion is for business and the leadership and systems that make a business productive and profitable.

I believe in transparency, shared accountability and the unlimited potential of a team-based culture.

The salon/spa industry has been the focus of my career for over 50 years. My track record, and the 26+ year track record of Strategies, of helping owners build the companies, cultures and profitability they never thought possible, is impeccable.

I’m sharing all the above not to boast, but to get your attention and to understand what I need to share…because I believe this may be the most important blog post I’ve ever written.

FACT: Salons and spas are historically known for their lack of profitability and high employee turnover.

Fast forward to today

Since mid-February, our industry and economy has been shaken to its core by COVID-19. All previous national crises and recessions pale in comparison. Never before have all non-essential businesses been ordered to close for a month or more. Never before have such massive federal loans and relief funds been poured into small businesses and individuals.... Read More

These are truly surreal times we’re going through — and the ride appears far from over.

The good news is that all but a few states are relaxing “stay at home” orders and allowing businesses, including salons and spas, to reopen.

Overnight, the conversation shifted from PPP forgiveness to reopening safety protocols.

Today, the big question is: What exactly is it like to reopen your salon/spa?

To answer that question, I interviewed Andrea Birst, owner of Glance Spa & Salon, located in Bismarck, ND.

In addition to winning the Team-Based Pay Business of the Year Award in 2017, Andrea became a Certified Strategies Coach in 2018.

Neil: You reopened on May 1st. What was that like?

Andrea: I was surprised at the overwhelming feelings of emotion I had, and still do. Transitioning from home life and taking care of three kids to going back to work isn’t like flipping a light switch. We were told we could reopen on April 28th and it became a mad dash to prepare the salon/spa.... Read More