Collaboration in Business

Susan Wos, founder of Salonspa Connection. (Credit: Courtesy of Salonspa Connection) In 2017, Susan Wos launched Salonspa Connection with the goal of assisting salon owners with finding the perfect staffers for their businesses. By 2019, Wos had noticed a huge gap in the industry: There was no platform addressing owners’ real-estate needs. As requests began to pour in in increasing amounts, Wos tapped into her insider knowledge – and her own experience selling a salon space in 2001 – to meet that need. Today, the Kansas City, Missouri-based entrepreneur is running a full-fledged brokerage and marketing platform that provides salon owners across the United States with a full suite of resources to expand their business, find the right employees, or move on to their next (ad)venture. Here's our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project. How is your business different from others in your industry? While other businesses offer similar recruitment and marketing services, no one has been successful at incorporating business brokerage as well. We are truly one of a kind. Tell us about your biggest success so far. Selling a two-location children's salon! That was by far the most difficult sale I have encountered. What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? Connecting with people who are not tied to big salon brands – or competitors. There are many people in the industry who are loyal to manufacturers, or swayed by influencers. That said, I have found several independent consultants, not to mention many salon professionals, whose attitudes align with our mission, and who find our independence refreshing. Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions? I have become very good friends with a woman in Boston who has a business similar to mine. Instead of viewing each other as competition, we have been helpful, supportive and collaborative with one another – in our professional and personal lives. Our friendship has brought about so many positive things for both of our businesses. In fact, we are considering a partnership that may greatly impact both of our futures. What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? Be ready to fail and struggle. But also, be ready to celebrate the small wins. Everything takes longer than you think it will, but the climb to the top is worth it! How do you find inspiration on your darkest days? My children keep me mentally afloat. They are my reason for just about everything, and their need to see their mom thrive is very inspirational. What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? “Big Time” by Peter Gabriel. Who is your most important role model? Investor and management consultant Kyle Musser. I met him through a mastermind group. He is very diligent, motivated, well balanced and extremely intelligent – and younger than me! Instagram: @salonspaconnectionFacebook: @salonspaconnectionTikTok: @Salonrecruiter Share your story! Check out our Advice + Tips for entrepreneurs starting-upWatch our latest videosSubscribe to our podcast

Collaboration in Business

Here’s How She Helps Salon Owners Scale Up

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