6 Ways to Help Independent Beauty Professionals Feel Connected

As an independent beauty professional, maintaining a strong network is essential for growth. Networking not only expands your reach within the beauty industry but also helps you build a support system in other aspects of life, enhancing your sense of belonging and community.  

Why is it important to network as an independent beauty professional?  

• Combat Isolation – Stay connected and build a sense of belonging to support your mental well-being. 
• Receive Emotional Support – Share experiences with others who understand the industry's challenges. 
• Foster Community – Build relationships that reduce stress and promote a positive outlook. 
• Learn & Grow – Gain insights, feedback, and resources to elevate your career. 

Here are some simple ways to help you connect with fellow beauty professionals and create lasting bonds that will nurture your career and salon business:  

✔️ Follow your Sola neighbors on social media 

Engage with fellow beauty professionals on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Make sure to follow your local Sola social media pages, too! By following and interacting with your peers, you can stay updated on their work, support their achievements, and build meaningful connections. Plus, they might return the favor and engage with your content! 

✔️ Organize a happy hour or get-together 

Organize a gathering for 2-5 people you've been wanting to connect with or who would enjoy each other's company. If space isn't limited, consider hosting an open invitation event at a community table in a restaurant or a large food hall that can accommodate everyone interested from your Sola location. If possible, make your gatherings a regular happening. Consistent interaction helps strengthen connections and fosters a sense of community! 

✔️ Welcome and support fellow Sola pros  

Building connections starts with simple gestures, like inviting a new Sola neighbor for coffee or lunch! Offer support by introducing them to others in your location, lending a hand with their move-in or decorating, or just being available to answer questions. Being the newbie can be overwhelming, and your kindness will be remembered! 

✔️ Attend (or organize!) education events 

Education is key in our industry, so why not host or attend education events with your Sola neighbors? Whether local or traveling somewhere new, these experiences foster collaboration, expand your skills, and help you build lasting connections within and beyond the Sola community. 

✔️ Explore the possibilities of a shared double suite 

Consider opening a shared double suite with your Sola bestie – or let your beauty friends outside of Sola know about this opportunity! It can be a more cost-effective way to test out the salon suite concept. Sharing a workspace can deepen your connection and inspire creative collaboration beyond what you might have ever imagined. Double the studio... double the fun! 

✔️ Cheer each other on 

Celebrate one another's wins, promote each other’s services, or stop by to tell somebody how great their last appointment’s hair looked! Remember that you have 20,000+ people in the Sola community who can be your peers, support network, cheerleaders, educators, confidants, and most importantly – friends. So, when a client is looking for a killer brow artist or a new nail technician – make sure to recommend your Sola peers down the hall, especially if you genuinely love their work. And who said you can’t do a little service swap for each other while you’re at it?! 

_ 

Networking is not just about meeting new people; it's about building meaningful relationships that can lead to opportunities for growth and success. As an independent beauty professional, it's important to take the time to invest in yourself and your business by building a strong network of like-minded professionals.  

By embracing these networking ideas, you can cultivate a community of peers who empower and inspire one another. So go out, connect with your fellow beauty professionals, and discover the limitless possibilities that come with a strong network. 

Not a part of the Sola Family yet? Check out our salon suites for rent – here, you're in business for yourself but never by yourself.