Friday, July 22, 2016

How to Have a Successful Pet Grooming Business

                                        [Credit http://cornerstonemakeover.evetsites.net/sites/site-5265/images/yorkie.jpg]


Making a pet grooming business work is no different from any other; it takes time, commitment and dedication to make it work. In this article I look at some key points on how to make sure your pet grooming business flourishes.

1. Goals

As a business owner it is important to set achievable goals. Planning out targets for a day, a week, a month or a year is sensible, and a good way to make sure you achieve targets.

2. Employees

Hiring the right type of staff is key to your success. Whether you hire experienced employees, or you are willing to invest your time to train those new to the industry, the most successful pet grooming businesses have a workforce which cares about the animals and the entire business almost as much as you do.

[Credit: https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/05ecb8df/dms3rep/multi/desktop/cropped_12214629_1984286866_RhZN_177250517-groom-ban-1915x1114.jpg]

3. Networking

Join national, local and online groups related to your business, as well as any relevant small business groups which exist. These provide a great source of advertising, support, information and professional development.

4. Customer service

Make it a habit to communicate with your customers, talk about their pets, see if there are any problems and follow up on your services to make sure that they are happy with what you have to offer. Happy clients are the backbone of a strong business.

[Credit: http://www.mrnoggin.com/wp-content/uploads/11.jpg]
                            

5. Quality standards

Make it a priority to always deliver a high standard of service to all of your pet grooming customers. Always be punctual with your appointments, offer an outstanding service, and try to always go the extra mile. Training your staff to do the same is also important, to maintain the same quality standard at all times.

6. Make extra money

When you have a pet grooming business your main income will be driven by the standard relevant services provided. However, adding a few extras to the menu won't hurt. In fact, a few additional options available to clients could add up to a tidy sum at the end of the month.

Things that you could try are:

6.1 Accessories and toys:
Having a small stock of pet accessories, food, treats, and toys on hand encourages impulse buying.

 [Credit: http://usadogshop.com/skin/light_responsive/images/custom/dog/store-photo.jpg]

6.2 Affiliate marketing
Explore options for promoting certain third party services in your pet salon which will pay you a commission every time you send a customer to one of those service providers. These could include local veterinary clinics, independent pet stores and similar.

7. Pricing

The most successful pet grooming businesses charge realistic but financially viable rates for the services offered. Keep an eye on the rates your competition set by all means, but avoid price wars where you cut profit to the bone. Most pet owners are willing to pay a realistic fee for a top class service with a pet grooming service that cares about their animal.


Establishing and running a successful pet grooming business does take time, effort and dedication, but with thought, planning and determination the sky could well be the limit for your venture.

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