Why a Salon Owner Needs a Mentor By Joe Cignetti

At the beginning of 2024 I took on a mentor, I have had them in the past and I believe it has given me valuable assistance along the way. Its easy to get overwhelmed or lost in your business and here’s some points on why I believe its important.

1. Mentors Have Greater Experience and Provide a Fresh Perspective

As a business owner, having a mentor can be a game-changer. The wealth of experience a mentor brings is invaluable. They’ve navigated the ups and downs of the industry and can offer insights that I might not see. My mentor, for example, often provides perspectives I hadn’t considered, helping me avoid potential pitfalls and broaden my business understanding. While challenges still exist, their guidance accelerates my growth and helps me avoid easily avoidable mistakes.

2. They Help You Find More Opportunities for Networking

Networking is essential in any business. A mentor can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Through my mentor, I gain access to a network of business professionals, people don’t have to be in your industry to be helpful. I find I enjoy talking to people outside my industry, I then try and apply points learnt back into my business. Leveraging these connections has created numerous opportunities for collaboration and growth.

3. Mentors Assist in Building Your Culture

The culture within any business is critical to its success. A positive culture keeps my team motivated and committed. My mentor plays a pivotal role in me developing trust and to this has shown me to delegate more. It’s easy to think you do it faster and better however by handing off jobs this has helped me build strong relationships with my team, clients, business partner and freed up more time for me to work on my business.

4. They Help You Make More Decisive Decisions

Running a business involves making quick, impactful decisions. In these moments, my mentor’s advice has been invaluable. They help me weigh my options and make informed choices, minimizing potential negative consequences. This support has been crucial in navigating the daily challenges of owning a business.

5. They Help Hone Your Management Skills

Managing a business requires a diverse set of skills, from communication and planning to strategic thinking and problem-solving. My mentor has been instrumental in helping me develop these skills and to stay focused (which at times is my weakness). Their guidance has equipped me to lead my team effectively and drive my business forward.

The Importance of Finding the Right Mentor

Finding the right mentor is essential. A good mentor should align with your values and be willing to invest their time and effort in your growth. The search for a mentor is like finding a life partner; it requires expanding my network and approaching someone who you resonate with. Platforms like LinkedIn and mentorship-matching services can be helpful in this process.

It’s important to remember that not all mentorships work out, and that’s okay. The key is to understand what you want from the mentorship and pursue your goals.

For me personally the accountability I am held to, the structure and goal setting really keeps me on track.

I hope this can help you to see the positives in having a mentor.