Seizing Missed Opportunities: How to Push Yourself and Your Team Forward
In business, particularly in the hair industry, we often talk about growth, skills, and success. But what about the opportunities we miss? The ones that, if recognized and acted upon, could lead to incredible personal and professional growth?
In episode 160 of our podcast, we discussed how easy it is to become complacent, especially when things seem to be running smoothly. But entrepreneurship is about constantly evolving. The key to long-term success is recognizing and acting on opportunities, even when it's uncomfortable, especially when it's uncomfortable.
The Value of Pushing Beyond Your Comfort Zone
It’s natural to settle into a routine, especially when you’ve been doing something for a while. But comfort can lead to stagnation. We recently saw this with a few members of our team who had become a little too comfortable with their routines. We decided to push them by introducing a new skill: hair extensions. The initial response? They were uncomfortable—to be expected—learning something new is difficult.
However, by the end of the class, they were excited about learning a new technique. The lesson here? Growth only happens outside of your comfort zone. It's easy to avoid challenges, but pushing through discomfort is where real progress happens.
Empowering Your Team: Passing the Torch
One of the most powerful moments in business is recognizing that leadership doesn’t always mean doing everything yourself. Prior to the hair extension class, our staff member Gianna expressed a desire to teach. Instead of Jen just leading the class, she decided to let Gianna take the reins. Watching Gianna grow into that role was a proud moment—not just for Jen, but for our team.
As a business owner, it’s important to recognize when it’s time to pass the torch. You can’t do it all, and that’s okay. By empowering others, you not only free yourself up for other opportunities but also help your team grow into new roles.
Why Overlooking Basic Services Can Be a Missed Opportunity
A common mistake we see in the hair industry is the focus on big-ticket, glamorous services like complex color corrections or extensions. While these services are great, don’t overlook the value of perfecting the basics. Clients often come to us not because of an elaborate transformation but because we offer consistent, high-quality services that fit into their busy lives.
We’ve had clients say they would pay whatever it costs just to avoid spending their entire day in the salon. Efficiency and attention to detail in basic services like haircuts and simple color treatments can build incredible loyalty. Don’t miss the opportunity to become the go-to expert for services clients need regularly. They may not be as flashy, but they are the backbone of a thriving business.
Learning When (and When Not) to Take on New Skills
Another theme we touched on in the podcast is knowing when it's time to learn a new skill—and when it’s better to hold off. It’s tempting to jump into every new trend, but if you’re not solid on your fundamentals, learning something advanced may actually hold you back. Focus on mastering the basics first, then build from there.
For example, we’ve had to tell newer team members to hold off on certain classes until they had honed their foundational skills. By taking this approach, we ensure that when they do tackle new techniques, they are fully prepared and confident in their abilities.
The Importance of Client Experience Beyond the Chair
A missed opportunity for many salons and barbershops is focusing too much on the service and not enough on the client experience. While doing great hair is important, it’s the overall experience that keeps clients coming back. The little details matter—the cleanliness of the salon, the atmosphere, and even how your team communicates with clients.
Your salon should be a place where clients feel valued and taken care of, from the moment they walk in until the moment they leave. Creating a welcoming environment, paying attention to decor, and even offering small gestures like a coffee or a smile can go a long way.
Continuous Growth and Learning: The Key to Avoiding Stagnation
If you’re not growing, you’re regressing. Complacency is the enemy of success. While it’s important to take breaks and avoid burnout, ongoing learning and development are critical. Whether it’s attending classes, reading industry materials, or networking with other professionals, continuous education keeps you ahead of the curve.
However, it’s just as important to recognize that growth doesn’t always mean learning a new technique. Sometimes, it’s about refining the skills you already have, improving client communication, or learning how to lead and inspire your team.
Seize Opportunities: Don’t Let Complacency Set In
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as an entrepreneur is allowing yourself to become too comfortable. Whether it’s missing out on improving basic services, not pushing yourself to learn new skills, or failing to empower your team, missed opportunities can hold you back.

In business, there’s always room to grow and improve. Keep looking for ways to challenge yourself and your team. Whether it’s through learning new skills, improving client experience, or simply being more strategic in how you approach your day-to-day operations, seizing these opportunities can take your business to the next level.
Ready to Take Your Business Further?
If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about where to focus your energy, we’re here to help. Book a call with us to explore how you can grow your salon, strengthen your leadership skills, and avoid the common pitfalls that hold businesses back.
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