build your brand Guide

Your brand is your reputation—it’s what people think of when they hear your name or see your work. In today’s connected world, your brand already exists, whether you’re actively shaping it or not. So, why not take control and make it a true reflection of who you are?

This guide offers a step-by-step approach to build a brand intentionally, one that aligns with your values, resonates with your target audience, and helps you reach your business goals. Let's get started!

 
 

Identify Your Niche:

Focus on defining what makes your services unique and who your ideal clients are. Ask yourself:

  • What specialty services do you excel at, and what problems do you solve for your clients?

  • Who are your ideal clients, and what qualities make them the right fit for your business?

Action Step: Create a list of the top 3 specialty services you offer and the top 3 client problems you solve. Use this list to create marketing messages that speak directly to your ideal clients.

Why It Matters: Identifying a niche allows you to tailor your services and marketing, making it 2x more likely that you'll build strong, lasting relationships.

Create Your Brand Story:

Your story is what makes your brand relatable and trustworthy. Sharing your journey helps clients connect with you on a personal level.

  • Your Journey: Why did you enter the beauty industry, and what fuels your passion?

  • Your Mission: How do you serve your clients in a way that sets you apart?

Action Step: Write a 3-4 sentence brand story that includes your journey, mission, and what makes you unique. Share this story on your website, social media, and during client consultations.

Why It Matters: A compelling brand story increases client trust and loyalty. Brands with a strong story can see a 40% higher retention rate among clients.

 

Define Your Brand Values:

Your core values influence every part of your business. Whether it's creativity, authenticity, or luxury, these principles shape your brand.

Action Step: List the top 3-5 values that define your brand. Next, identify one way you can integrate each value into your client interactions. For example, if "luxury" is a core value, offer complimentary scalp massages during appointments.

Why It Matters: Demonstrating your values consistently creates a cohesive experience that resonates with clients, leading to a 20% increase in customer referrals.

 

Focus on the Unscalable:

Incorporate personalized touches that show clients you care. It's the little things that set you apart and create loyal customers.

Action Step: Choose at least one unscalable action to perform every week. Examples include:

  • Sending 5 handwritten thank-you notes to new clients.

  • Offering a small complimentary add-on service, like a scalp massage, during appointments.

  • Providing a personalized product recommendation based on each client’s hair or beauty needs.

Why It Matters: Personalized gestures can boost client retention by up to 30% and encourage word-of-mouth referrals, growing your clientele organically.

Set Clear Branding Goals:

Your branding should align with how you want to be perceived. Defining these goals keeps your brand consistent and focused.

Action Step: Choose 3 branding goals you want to achieve over the next 6 months. Examples:

  • Become known for exceptional customer service.

  • Increase social media engagement by sharing behind-the-scenes content.

  • Provide highly personalized consultations for every client.

Use these goals to guide your marketing and client interactions. Review your progress monthly to stay on track.

Why It Matters: Clear branding goals provide direction and help you measure impact. Businesses with defined branding goals can see a 25% increase in client bookings within six months.

 
 

To inspire and provide a benchmark, we’ve highlighted successful branding examples:


Stylist A:

Luxury Balayage Specialist


Brand Focus:

A stylist known for creating high-end balayage looks and providing luxury hair treatments. Their branding emphasizes the use of premium products, cutting-edge techniques, and a personalized approach to consultations.


Brand Building Efforts:

This stylist frequently shares client transformations on social media, detailing the process and products used, which positions them as an expert in the field. They send personalized product recommendations and follow-up messages to clients post-appointment, creating a premium, tailored experience that resonates with their target clientele.


Results:

Over time, this strategy has built a loyal clientele that regularly refers friends, drawn by the stylist’s reputation for luxury and attention to detail.


Manicurist B:

Sustainable Beauty Advocate


Brand Focus:

This manicurist specializes in eco-friendly nail services, using organic, cruelty-free products, and promoting sustainability in all aspects of their work.


Brand Building Efforts:

They use social media to educate clients on sustainable nail care practices, share product recommendations, and offer tips for maintaining healthy nails at home. They also provide reusable nail care kits for clients and offer discounts on refills, reinforcing their role as a trusted, eco-conscious advisor.


Results:

By consistently aligning their brand with eco-friendly values, they’ve built a niche following of clients who prioritize sustainability, creating a loyal customer base that actively supports and promotes their brand.


Industry Icons:

Betina Goldstein (@betina_goldstein)


Brand Focus:

Betina Goldstein is known for her minimalist, art-inspired nail designs and her use of non-toxic, cruelty-free products. She has positioned herself as a manicurist who values both beauty and the health of her clients, making her a leader in the sustainable beauty movement.


Brand Building Efforts:

Betina uses her social media platform to showcase elegant nail art that aligns with her minimalist aesthetic. She shares tutorials, product recommendations, and tips for maintaining healthy nails using eco-friendly products. Additionally, she educates her audience on the benefits of clean beauty in nail care and often collaborates with clean beauty brands to emphasize her commitment to sustainability.


Takeaway:

Her branding demonstrates how focusing on a niche (in this case, minimalist and sustainable nail art) and educating clients on product choices can set a manicurist apart. By sharing her expertise and personal values, Betina has created a loyal following of clients and peers who admire her for her commitment to clean, beautiful nail care.

 
 

Industry Icon:

Tracey Cunningham (@traceycunningham1)


Brand Focus:

A renowned colorist in the beauty industry, Tracey is known for her expertise in creating natural, sun-kissed color looks, particularly balayage and highlights.


Brand Building Efforts:

Tracey shares her color transformations and formulas on social media, providing both inspiration and a peek into her artistry. She positions herself as an educator by offering online masterclasses, showcasing her dedication to sharing her knowledge with both clients and peers.


Takeaway:

Tracey’s branding illustrates the power of transparency and education in building trust and recognition as an expert, resulting in a loyal following of clients who seek her out for her signature, natural-looking color styles.