By now, you’ve probably worked with tons of different dog grooming clients. Or, if you’re just starting out, you’ll be meeting them pretty soon! Either way, there are a few things to note about every customer that comes to your salon…
Is it really enough to meet your clients and be on a first-name basis? Check out the top 6 things that you should understand about dog owners if you want to run a successful grooming business!
1. They love their pets – fiercely!
This goes without saying, but we’re going to say it anyway! Pet owners are dedicated to making their dog’s lives greater than their own. Dogs are precious and pure, and each owner wants to make sure you know that their pal is the most important one in there.
Now as a groomer, you know that every dog in your salon deserves the utmost respect and care. But it’s important to let your clients know that their dog is special to you – you will put a lot of effort into making him look handsome. He is, after all, a part of the family!
This also means that you need to watch your boundaries. Although you’ll work hard to make sure each animal is 100% safe, you should tell owners up front that there is no absolute guarantee that a fluke accident won’t happen. This way, if there’s a minor problem during the groom, your clients won’t rage at you and storm out! They’ll know that you have taken the necessary precautions.
2. They might mistake you for a vet
And that’s not to patronize any of your customers, but they might expect that you know more about animal medicine than you really do. You probably have some first-aid training from your online grooming course (or you should get some, at least!) but you have to let your clients know that your opinion is not the same as a visit to the vet.
You can let owners know when you think something’s up, or if there’s a condition that requires medical attention – but don’t try to diagnose a dog just to make your clients happy! This will earn you a one-way ticket to losing your business.
The best way to avoid this? Network with local vet offices so you always have somewhere to refer your clients.
3. They worry about bad conditions
Everyone is afraid of leaving their loved ones in a bad place, and this includes furry family members. Especially with some of the horror stories they’ve been told, owners want to be diligent in researching dog groomers and salons!
Here’s a trick: have your clients take a peek at your grooming salon and setup when you first meet them. They don’t need to invade your space, but giving them a quick look for themselves will give them peace of mind. They’ll know their pup is in good hands!
4. They like being in the know
Obvious, yes – but so true! Dog owners want to make sure they know everything that you will be doing. They want to know how long it will take, how you deal with any problem areas, where their pet will be staying, and so on. The best thing you can do is give them answers.
Now, it can be extremely time-consuming to explain the complete process to every single customer. You’re way better off writing up a complete list of frequently asked questions and posting it in your salon. You can also put it up on your website, so potential clients can learn more about your grooming techniques!
This won’t answer all of your customer’s questions, but it will save you a bunch of time. They’ll know the basics and will only be inclined to ask questions that are specific and uncommon.
5. They are smart
Your dog grooming clients know how a business should be run, and they most likely have some knowledge of proper grooming. It’s in your best interest to level with them, and never talk down to your customers.
Providing information is vital – but if you act as though your clients don’t have any common sense, you’re in for a world of trouble. No one likes being patronized, especially when their beloved pet is involved.
We trust that you have great people skills, so inform and be polite – always!
6. They appreciate the advice
With that last point in mind, don’t be afraid to offer advice to your clients. Dog grooming is an essential part of keeping pets happy and healthy, and it should never be neglected. A few tips and tricks to help your customers better care for their pal will help both of you in the long run.
Not only will it prevent matting and other problems, you’ll be spreading proper techniques that will pass through the grapevine!
Getting to know your dog grooming customersis super important if you want to run a successful business. You need a solid client base for your grooming salon to both maintain and grow your credibility (and your referrals!). Put an emphasis on learning about each client and furry friend that comes through the door!
Find out the top questions your dog grooming clients will ask, and be prepared to give them a good answer!
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