Susan Routledge welcomes her friend and business mentor, Tony Bache, known for her expertise in scaling seven-figure businesses. The conversation delves into the transformative role of AI in the beauty industry, exploring how it can streamline operations and enhance marketing strategies for salons. Tony shares her extensive experience with AI tools, including ChatGPT, and discusses the importance of maintaining a human touch in client interactions. They also touch on effective social media strategies, emphasizing the need for authentic content that resonates with audiences.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Human Connection is Irreplaceable: In the beauty industry, the personal touch and connection with clients are crucial.

Content Quality Over Quantity: Instead of posting frequently with generic content, focus on creating fewer, high-quality posts that resonate with your audience.

Utilize AI for Ideation: AI can be a valuable resource for brainstorming content ideas and drafting posts.

Engagement and Community Building: Actively engage with local businesses and your audience on social media.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think it's like, for me, it's like the fact it's an accelerator, it's an amplifier... what else could have you spent that time on?" - Toni

"If you're in the beauty industry, probably your least favourite thing to do is all of the admin... that's the stuff that's going to be automated." - Toni

"I think we are in such a fortunate industry where... human contact and the connection that we have with clients, you're never going to be replaced with that." - Susan

"You need to be the flamingo in the sea of seagulls. If you want people to actually see your stuff, it's got to be a bit different." - Toni

HOST BIO

Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication.

Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive.

Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Bea And the Best" 1 and 2.

She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars.

Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide.

USEFUL LINKS

https://susanroutledge.com

https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/