“Soft Selling” Eye Protection


istcovernov2016-1Recently, a salon owner ranted in an online salon owners’ forum about how unfair it is that she has to ask her guests to show eye protection and turn them away if they won’t wear it, after they have paid for unlimited tanning. Of course, none of us wants to engage in a pitched battle over eye protection with a salon guest. There are several ways to “hint” to your tanners without saying a word, and they will be prepped when you ask to see their eyewear or suggest it’s time that they buy another pair. One way to prepare your tanners is to display a colorful window cling on your front door that says, “Eye Protection is Required.” As your tanners walk in, they will know that you’ll be asking them about it.

What are some other ways you can prepare your tanners for the “big ask?” I’d suggest using social media and your salon website. Occasionally post an eye protection message. This can be in several forms; a pic of really fun, colorful goggles with, “Free this week with any $15 purchase!” Or, you can choose from dozens of related social media posts from eye protection manufacturers or your distributor. You can share a past “Eye to Eye” article from ISTMagazine.com. Another fun way to “get the message out” is to have your staff take some selfies wearing disposables or goggles.