ZOE CONNOR, THE SOCIAL HAIR + BEAUTY

There's always emerging trends in the hair and beauty industry, but not many salon owners (if any) can claim to have rolled out an entirely new business model, which helps empower stylists, while giving clients exactly what they want. Sounds too good to be true, but that's what Zoe Connor has done with The Social Hair and Beauty. Being a small business owner, in-demand hairdresser, and mum of two little ladies, Zoe is crazy busy, but we managed to nab her for a brief chat about life, business, and mugs of tea in bubbly baths.

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What inspired you to open The Social Hair and Beauty?

It was a natural next step for me, having owned and run a boutique salon in Byron since 2017. There's been a shift over the last few years in the hair and beauty industry, partly to do with the world of social media. People can find a stylist directly now, look at their profile of work, and choose which stylist suits them, rather than choosing a salon. This changed the game for industry experts, not only allowing freedom to work independently, and grow clientele, but also financial growth within an industry that's so undervalued. I had lots of friends in the industry leaving their place of work, one by one, and not seeking employment, but rather a chair to rent. This is what led me to opening The Social Hair and Beauty, to create a space solely for freelancers.

So that makes The Social Hair and Beauty quite different from traditional salons then?

Yeah, we're a co-working hub of highly trained freelancers. The space allows independent hair and beauty experts to have a team environment and support, while choosing which hours and days they want to work. Our website has a stylist directory, where each team member can be booked, which allows the client to find the right stylist for them. This diversity brings a wide range of skills together, and ensures we stay current in all the latest techniques, attracting stylists from all over the world.

The Social is exactly what the name implies – it's a social place for creatives to work together, while only being responsible for themselves and their clients. We're also part of a fantastic movement called Sustainable Salons, which, among other amazing things, means the salon has six bins – one for metals, plastics, paper, chemicals, sharps, and a bin for all hair cuttings or old extensions. All these bins are collected by Sustainable Salons, and they recycle everything. How cool is that!

What's your process for picking your talented team of freelancers?

I’m very particular. They have to be very skilled and go through the same quality checks and trials as employees. I have very high standards and look for a good fit in the team. Creating and sustaining a good atmosphere in the salon is very important to me. Clients should leave delighted with the service they received, but also having enjoyed being in the chair. A lot of work goes into creating a relaxed, professional, fun environment and each team member is a key element to that. I'm really lucky to have such a great team.

Your favourite product or service at the moment?

This has to be extensions with the most beautiful European hair. It’s a service that clients are so committed to, and it can transform how they look and feel. When people take the plunge, and get their first set, they tend to become completely addicted.

What's an important lesson you've learnt in business?

Take nothing for granted. Continued success is about hard work, not missing opportunities, and being prepared to take a chance. What works today can quickly become yesterday’s news, so I’m always thinking about tomorrow, next week, and next year.

Best bit of advice you've been given by a client?

Don’t forget to tell yourself, “well done" occasionally. As human beings, we tend to focus on what needs improving all the time. Giving yourself the thumbs up now and then does make you feel good.

How do you typically start and end your day?

I wish I could answer this by saying I jump in the ocean, or do a Pilates class, but the truth is I have a one-year-old and nearly three-year-old, so my day usually starts around 6am with my girls demanding breakfast. At the end of the day, we like to have dinner as a family. And when all's quiet, a lovely soak in the bath, with lots of bubbles, and a big mug of tea!

If you could only share one beauty or hair tip, what would it be?

Come see us at The Social Hair and Beauty.

Outside the salon, what are you passionate about?

My husband and I love to travel. Before having our two girls, we did a lot of Southeast Asia and Europe. My favourite place being the Perhentian Islands, off the coast of Malaysia – it's still the best scuba diving I've done. We've got our sights on Central America next.

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Treat yourself with a visit to The Social in Suites 4 & 11, Building B1. Learn more about their amazing team of stylists on their website or Instagram.