Beauty
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A Chat With Vagaro’s Women in Leadership
7 Mother’s Day Marketing Ideas
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This is probably a question you ask your customers daily, but how often do you check in with yourself? As a business owner, juggling the needs of staff and customers can be overwhelming, and may leave you feeling physically and mentally wiped out. In fact, studies have shown that 62% of business owners feel depressed at least once a week! (smallbiztrends.com) That’s surprising considering entrepreneurs carry so much responsibility for their staff and clients. With this in mind, it’s extremely important for business owners to look after their own mental health problems and adopt a healthy work-life balance to keep yourself and your business thriving. Here are four ways to care for your and your employees' mental health:Whether you are a single business owner, or manage a small enterprise, creating a healthy work-life balance is essential. Doing so can prevent a potential burnout, leaving you and your business to suffer. Choosing a specific range of hours for work and leisure is key. Consider turning your phone and other communication channels off once your workday is over. You can also schedule time on your calendar for yourself or family, in order to ensure you get the downtime you need. Take a break from social media as well, freeing up more time to focus on yourself. You can also celebrate World Mental Health Day (October 10) and take a personal day! Insider Vagaro Tip 1: In your Vagaro calendar, there is an option to book personal time for yourself.
Me Time is Important
As the saying goes, “if you’re going to talk the talk, you better walk the walk.” Leading a healthy work-life balance will set an example and help raise awareness about the importance of good mental health. Modeling healthy behaviours will inspire your team and family members to do the same. Organize a retreat for your staff in honor of World Mental Health Day, exercise, take walks or share that you’re going to a therapy appointment. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and have conversations about mental health issues in order to raise awareness and advocacy around it. Insider Vagaro Tip 2: Vagaro offers Gusto integration to businesses for payroll ease.
Be a Model of Mental Health
Stay Productive, My Friend
It may sound counterintuitive, but staying productive is a great way to relieve mental stress. As stated above, exercise is a sure way to maintain your overall health; but tackling mundane work projects can be just as useful to keep extra stress at bay. Learning a new business-related skill or completing that big project you’ve been putting off can boost your mood and mental well-being, giving you a sense of purpose and accomplishment.Treat Yourself, Don’t Cheat Yourself
If you are in the beauty, fitness or wellness industries, you spend most of your time caring for others’ health and well-being. But, when was the last time you treated yourself to a spa day or set aside a whole afternoon to yourself? Pampering yourself or celebrating small victories like gaining three new clients can be a huge motivator in increasing your mood. When you reward yourself, your brain produces feel good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, decreasing the chance of depression and loss of motivation. Running a business can be extremely rewarding, but also very stressful. The health and wellbeing of your employees and customers often come before your own, which can lead to mental health fatigue. In fact, business owners are more likely to experience mental illnesses or health issues more frequently than nonbusiness owners. (smallbiztrends.com) The solution is to create a sustainable work-life balance to maintain good mental health. Scheduling personal time, leading a healthy lifestyle, staying active and giving back to yourself are just a few ways to promote mental health. For more support, you can also speak with a mental health professional to ensure you stay on the path to wellness. After all, we see professionals for our physical health. What makes our mental health any different? Here are a few online mental health resources: https://www.betterhelp.com https://moodhealth.com https://www.talkspace.com [post_title] => Why Your Mental Health Matters for Your Business [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => why-mental-health-matters-business [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-10-08 22:08:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-10-08 22:08:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://vagaro-blog2.azurewebsites.net/uncategorized-en-gb/why-your-mental-health-matters-for-your-business/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => btb_post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10499 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2021-08-25 23:20:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-08-25 23:20:24 [post_content] => Operating a studio or health club is a rewarding opportunity to serve and transform your clients’ lives by improving their health. During this Covid era, many heart-leading wellness entrepreneurs have moved elements of their businesses from in-person to online. In order to operate your business safely, here is a legal crash course with 4 core tips you should keep in mind.1. Get insurance
Business insurance is like a seat belt for a car. You don’t need it until you do. Like a seatbelt, insurance can be a lifeline for your business. Especially with all the new rules and regulations around Covid-19, there are various risks that come with running a studio or gym. Insurance gives you peace of mind from the risk of getting sued by someone who acted on your advice and was disappointed with the outcome or someone who was injured.2. Understand employment law
Because you run your business with other people, you will need to understand the difference between an independent contractor and an employee. This distinction is critically important in order to avoid getting in trouble with the tax regulatory agency (i.e the Internal Revenue Service). Contractors work independently and pay their own taxes, while employees work under your direction and you are responsible for withholding taxes from their pay and paying government taxes on their behalf.3. Understand your need for legal documentation
If you are operating an in-person or online business, you will need the proper legal documentation to formalize your relationships and waive your client’s right to sue you. Without these legal agreements, you run the risk of being sued and held liable for data breaches, improper use of personal information, and losing the trust of your clients. Just downloading a generic privacy policy template or terms and conditions template does not adequately protect your business. Here is what you need to know:a) Terms and Conditions
Terms and Conditions are the rules your visitors must agree to in using your website and buying your products and services. Since your website does all the talking for you, you have to make sure it is saying all of the right things to protect you and ensure that you are participating in relationships the way you would like. Some of the common items you’ll find in terms and conditions or terms of service include: Copyright, purpose, links to third-party websites, license to use materials, limitation of liability, disclaimers, and no guarantees.b) Privacy Policy
A privacy policy outlines how a business, website, or person collects, uses and discloses personal information that they receive about people. Privacy policies are required by several regulations (such as California Online Privacy Protection Act, Privacy Shield, EU General Data Protection Regulation, Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule) any time you collect personal information (like email address, billing info, phone number, etc.) from website visitors.c) Disclaimer
A disclaimer is any statement that is used to specify or limit the scope of obligations and rights that are enforceable in a legally recognized relationship. A social media disclaimer is important to keep your business protected from the activity that takes place on your social pages. Disclaimers are important to protect your customers. Since you are advising people in using your heart-leading business services, you’ll want to be open and honest about your qualifications, what services you are providing or what is in the product that you are selling. Make sure to be realistic about the outcomes your customers can expect by including a ‘no guarantees’ clause, otherwise dissatisfied customers could file a claim against you and your business.d) Waiver of Liability
This document is a must have for anyone who facilitates yoga, fitness or other physical activities you offer. It explains the risks and possible outcomes of participating in activities with you, and allows clients to absolve you of liability. Without a customized and professionally drafted waiver of liability (aka a generic template you download off the internet), there is a high likelihood that your waiver will be unenforceable, which defeats the purpose of having a waiver in the first place. Make sure your waiver addresses the unique and specific nuances of your business. When someone signs a waiver of liability, they forfeit their legal right to hold you liable for what might happen when they are in your care. Waivers protect your company, or instructor, from being sued if someone gets injured.4. Protect your Intellectual Property
Not only do you need to protect your own intellectual property, you also need to ensure your business does not infringe on the Intellectual Property of others. Owning and running a health club or a studio requires you to be present for your clients. With the help of a trusted legal professional, you can set the right agreements in place so your business (content, assets, etc.) and your students are protected. I know the last year and a half has been a whirlwind. Just know you are not in this alone, and that the law is not such a scary place. By understanding a few basic fundamentals and getting proper agreements in place, you can relax with peace of mind, knowing you are secure, confident and safe. With Love & Protection, Cory Sterling Do you need legal support for your business? Click here to book a free legal consultation with me and I’d be more than happy to guide you in the right direction. You can also reach me at cory@consciouscounsel.ca. Mention you are a Vagaro member and you will receive 10% off your legal agreements if you choose to purchase any. Bio Cory Sterling is the founder of the heart-leading law firm Conscious Counsel, which was awarded the Most Innovative Fitness & Wellness Law Firm of 2021 (Legal Elite Awards.) Cory is a lawyer, yoga teacher, and group fitness instructor. He wrote ‘The Yoga Law Book’ and has served hundreds of yoga, fitness & wellness professionals and studio owners around the world. He won the award for "Highest Rated Session" at MindBody Bold and stays committed every day to teach about the law in a FUN and practical way. P.S. If you own or manage a business that charges rent and fees, learn more about how you can do that with Vagaro's new Automatic Rent & Fees feature. [post_title] => The Core 4 Legal Essentials Every Studio Owner Must Know [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => the-core-4-legal-essentials-every-studio-owner-must-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-08-25 23:20:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-08-25 23:20:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://vagaro-blog.azurewebsites.net/the-core-4-legal-essentials-every-studio-owner-must-know/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => btb_post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10507 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-10-27 16:34:51 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-27 16:34:51 [post_content] =>Massage therapists and bodyworkers are one of the many close-contact professions that have been profoundly impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. Despite the pandemic, many massage therapists have been able to pivot their business model and adapt to the circumstances, finding safe, alternative ways to continue working. Here are some tips to help you re-imagine your massage therapy business, add virtual services to your menu, and bring in more clients.
Reassure Customers of Their Safety
Like many other regulated hands-on professions, sanitation and hygiene have always been a significant part of the daily workflow. The only difference is that before COVID-19, performing sanitation practices behind the scenes was vital to the customer experience. Now, sanitation and hygiene are part of the customer experience – and customers expect transparency about how you’re keeping them safe. Making small adaptations to your daily workflow reassures clients, which leads to positive reviews – and the Vagaro COVID-Ready badge!
- Automated emails and text reminders keep clients informed about your business sanitation, safety, and distancing practices.
- Touchless forms make it easy to pre-screen customers and send liability waivers before appointments.
- Encourage online prepayments and use Vagaro’s COVID-Clean checkout for in-person payments.
Pro Tip: Download the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) guidelines PDF, created specifically for your industry.

Ask Your Clients What They Need Right Now
One thing that everyone’s experience of the pandemic has in common is that change has come in ways both big and small. It’s easy to assume that you know what your clients need – but why not just ask them? You might just be surprised by what you find out! For instance, clients may be more open than you’d guess to learning ways to de-stress from home, through virtual appointments or social distance instructional sessions. By sending a contactless form, you can gain insight to what your massage clients need and want. This will give you a clear vision for how to pivot your business, the digital services to offer, and how to personalize the client experience.
Diversify Your Business Model with Virtual Services
Did you know that human beings can become “touch starved”? It’s true! Human beings are hard-wired for touch, which is why massage is such an important service in times of stress. Surprisingly, studies show that virtual chats deliver 80% of the benefits of in-person contact, which makes adding digital massage services a useful way to diversify. Many massage therapists are trained in other wellness disciplines, like yoga, personal training, meditation, nutrition, or life coaching. Based on the results of your client survey, you may find that you’ve got a built-in client base for new additions to your service menu.
Virtual One-on-One Appointments. Offer live stream appointments with clients to teach them massage techniques that they can perform at home, to decompress and keep themselves limber.
In-person Instructional Sessions. Maintaining a safe 6-foot distance, you can teach clients self-massage tricks, review their form, and instruct them in more complex, tension-relieving stretching and mobility exercises.
Online Group Sessions. These are a great way to attract new clients, especially when offered at a lower price point, on a sliding scale, or hosted for free. You can organize a group session to talk about overall wellness, to teach a specific technique, or as a Q & A conference. Massage, guided imagery, mediation, yoga, stretching, and relaxation techniques are topics sure to attract a crowd, leading to new client relationships down the road.

Use YouTube to Get Bookings for Your Live Streams
YouTube’s content-on-demand format makes it an ideal platform to attract new clients to sign up for your live stream sessions. By filming short videos for YouTube – which you can then use across multiple social media platforms – you let new clients “try before they buy.” YouTube videos let you introduce yourself and your massage business to clients and take a virtual tour of your facilities. Teaching viewers a skill on YouTube might prompt them to sign up for future workshops and one-on-one sessions, attracting new clients with ease.
Introduce Yourself! Let new clients learn about you, your credentials, your business, and why you love being a massage therapist. You can also talk about other wellness disciplines you’re passionate about, so new clients will know about other services you may offer.
Virtual Tour of Your Practice. Welcome new and virtual clients to your clinic with a virtual tour. This lets new clients get acquainted with the space and know what to expect when they visit.
Sanitation Showcase. Create a video that walks viewers through your sanitation protocols and provides reassurance that they’re in safe hands when they book a massage.
Teach Them a Trick. Think of the most common issues you help new clients with – especially if they’ve been working from home in a less-than-ergonomic workspace. By focusing on one stress or pain-relieving technique, you can inspire viewers to sign up for a virtual session or one-on-one appointment, in-person or online.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to include a call-to-action that links to your website, upcoming digital sessions, and booking page in your YouTube clips, and make sure to mention them at the end of your video. That way, viewers can become clients with just a few clicks!

Human Beings Need Physical Contact
The benefits of massage encompass both the physical and the emotional. With the widespread adoption of working and attending school from home, there is more need than ever for massage to relieve stress and body pain. Despite the obstacles presented by social distancing, massage therapy remains an in-demand profession that’s easily adapted to perform online and in-person. Massage is part of the “big picture” of wellness, so it’s time to adapt your business to the changing needs of customers.

If you’re ready to pivot your massage business to a wellness business combining in-person and virtual services, we’ve got the tools to get you started! Use Vagaro forms to learn what your customers want, host virtual sessions via live stream, and use Vagaro’s marketing tools to promote your new services.
Header Image: Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels
Body Images: Photo by Thom Holmes on Unsplash
Photo by Gustavo Fring from Pexels
Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels
[post_title] => Tips for Massage Therapists Working in the COVID-19 World [post_excerpt] => Massage therapists and bodyworkers are– one of the many close-contact professions that have been profoundly impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. Despite the pandemic, many massage therapists have been able to pivot their business model and adapt to the circumstances, finding safe, alternative ways to continue working. Here are some tips to help you re-imagine your massage therapy business, add virtual services to your menu, and bring in more clients. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => tips-for-massage-therapists-working-in-the-covid-19-world [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-27 16:34:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-27 16:34:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://vagaro-blog.azurewebsites.net/tips-for-massage-therapists-working-in-the-covid-19-world/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => btb_post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10509 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-10-19 14:01:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-10-19 14:01:50 [post_content] =>
Taking the steps necessary toward healthier living can be difficult when you don’t know where or how to start.
Fortunately, the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) has made health education an annual holiday, which can make help your clients begin their fitness journey.
Started by the SOPHE in 1995, National Health Education Week (NHEW) has been instrumental in raising awareness regarding health issues for over 20 years. The third week of October is dedicated to better understanding healthier living, both mentally and physically. From October 19-23, 2020, make a plan to incorporate NHEW into your business and attract new clients through education.
Why Is Health Education Important?
It’s one thing to know the proper steps for healthier living, but it’s another to apply them.
Mental health has recently become a focal point, with more and more fitness instructors placing emphasis on mental wellbeing and how it can affect physical health. Meditation and positivity exercises can influence your productivity, social skills, and overall mood. As society has become more self-aware, people are beginning to value the importance of treating mental health. Health Education Week is the perfect time to learn more about how you can be more mindful of mental-health practices.

Physically, maintaining a healthy diet and workout regimen can help with energy levels and focus. Regardless of age, being active and using body movement promotes brain activity, but it’s especially vital for children whose minds are still developing. Here are some benefits associated with physical activity according to the CDC:
- Encourages accomplishing goals
- Plays an important role in creating positivity
- Helps build self-confidence
- Improves hand-eye coordination and motor skills
- Reduces feelings of anxiety or depression
- Helps maintain healthy bones and joints
It’s easy to forget about self-maintenance when there’s a lot going on, but NHEW is about being mindful, which is crucial in 2020.
Health Education Streamed Directly to Your Home
It’s easy to make excuses to avoid working out, but it’s not hard to plan them into your schedule.
Personal trainers and health education specialists are finding new and innovative ways to keep you active both mentally and physically. Yoga classes and at-home workouts are increasingly popular because of their availability.
- If your business doesn’t offer live streaming, there’s a multitude of ways you could garner more clients through virtual services. Here are just a few ideas: Webinars about mindfulness
- A guest speaker to discuss career tips
- Host a virtual race
- Social media challenges

Educate Your Clients to Keep Them Invested in Their Health
Health Education week is a good way to get your clients started on their revamped lifestyle but keeping at it and establishing a routine is what’s important. Accountability is key when it comes to working out, so help your clients stay on their path with encouraging messages and info throughout the week.
- Send a message based on the NHEW theme of the day
- Monday: Health equity and advocating for change
- Tuesday: Emergency preparedness
- Wednesday: Mental health and mindfulness
- Thursday: Health literacy
- Friday: Setting goals for your career and personal life
- Text and email your clients health tips every week
- Live stream one-on-one coaching sessions
- Host a virtual health education “listen & learn” on different health topics
- Use livestream for a digital Q & A session on different health topics
- Use social media (YouTube, Twitter, TikTok) for health tips and then boost social media with email and text reminders
Start Your Health Education with These Blogs
SOPHE and the CDC offers a wealth of information when it comes to monitoring your health, but don’t hesitate to search for more information.

National Health Education Week is your opportunity to capitalize on some new workout plans and reach out to your clientele. Whether it’s through text, email, or by phone, reminding your clients about staying on top of the mental and physical health is imperative. Stay positive and continue to serve as a support system for your customers. For more information on how to market your brand, check out Vagaro’s marketing tools!
Header Image: Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
Body Images: Photo by Amber Faust from Pexels
Photo by JESHOOTS.com from Pexels
[post_title] => Incorporate National Health Education Week Into Your Business [post_excerpt] => Started by the SOPHE in 1995, National Health Education Week (NHEW) has been instrumental in raising awareness regarding health issues for over 20 years. The third week of October is dedicated to better understanding healthier living, both mentally and physically. From October 19-23, 2020, make a plan to incorporate NHEW into your business and attract new clients through education. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => incorporate-national-health-education-week-into-your-business [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-10-19 14:01:50 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-10-19 14:01:50 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://vagaro-blog.azurewebsites.net/incorporate-national-health-education-week-into-your-business/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => btb_post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10514 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-09-15 17:35:29 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-09-15 17:35:29 [post_content] =>
National Online Learning Day, observed on September 15, honors America’s online learning communities – which is especially important in 2020! This national day originated to celebrate the accessibility, personalization, and convenience of online learning. This year, COVID-19 has prompted many schools – to take the classroom online, expanding the horizon of possibility. Here’s how beauty and fitness professionals can go online to renew, expand, and keep their skill set up to date.

Online Cosmetology Education Makes Learning Convenient
Are you looking to renew or earn a cosmetology license online? It’s important to keep up with continuing education in order to keep your license valid. Every state’s board of cosmetology’s licensing and accreditation regulations vary, so before you decide on an online cosmetology school, make sure you know your state’s requirements. You may need to earn additional hands-on hours through an apprenticeship to meet your state’s licensing standards.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many states have temporarily granted cosmetology schools permission to migrate in-person training to online training. However, before enrolling in any online cosmetology school, make sure that it’s accredited by at least one US Department of Education recognized organization.
Remember, you’ll need to renew your license every 2-3 years. Staying on top of your online coursework saves time, and it’s also cost-efficient!

Online Education for Fitness Professionals
If you’re on the fitness side of things, online certification is a convenient way to start a career in personal training, sports medicine and nutrition, yoga instruction, or nutritional counseling! Online education is also available for specialized fitness disciplines, such as strength coaching, indoor cycling (spin cycling), group fitness instruction, DNA-based fitness, and corrective exercise. If you’re already fitness certified, online education is a great, low-cost method of continuing your education, adding new areas of specialization, and expanding your skill set. Here are a few of the top nationally accredited fitness organizations who offer online certification across a variety of fitness professions!
To maintain a competitive edge in the fitness industry, adding new skills helps expand your client base and keeps you from falling into a professional rut. Who knows – you might even discover a new discipline that redirects your whole career!
Online Continuing Education
Learning is an action verb, and in dynamic professions like cosmetology and fitness, continuing education is vital to maintaining a professional edge. Additionally, depending on your state requirements, you may need to perform a certain number of continuing education hours when renewing your license. There are also scores of voluntary certification courses available – from cosmetology and fitness to graphic design and digital marketing – available online through Udemy and Coursera. These options are flexible, affordable ways for working professionals to expand their horizons.

Not all learning happens in a classroom! Online learning can happen anywhere that you’ve got a mobile device and a WiFi connection. Vagaro’s Support Forums, Blog, Facebook Community, and YouTube channels Vagaro Videos and Vagaro Support are full of tips, tricks, and information to give your business a boost!
Images: Giorgio Trovato via Vagaro
[post_title] => Keep Your Skills Sharp or Start a New Career with Online Education [post_excerpt] => National Online Learning Day, observed on September 15, honors America’s online learning communities – which is especially important in 2020! This national day originated to celebrate the accessibility, personalization, and convenience of online learning. This year, COVID-19 has prompted many schools – to take the classroom online, expanding the horizon of possibility. Here’s how beauty and fitness professionals can go online to renew, expand, and keep their skill set up to date. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => keep-your-skills-sharp-or-start-a-new-career-with-online-education [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-09-15 17:35:29 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-09-15 17:35:29 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://vagaro-blog.azurewebsites.net/keep-your-skills-sharp-or-start-a-new-career-with-online-education/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => btb_post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10515 [post_author] => 3 [post_date] => 2020-09-11 17:40:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2020-09-11 17:40:31 [post_content] =>
Staying motivated during the extended social distancing of COVID-19 is challenging, and your customers can always use a little extra encouragement. This is especially true when it comes to working out! While both you and your clients’ daily and weekly routines may be thrown out of sync, reestablishing the goals and activities they enjoy can help restore their motivation levels. Let’s explore some ways you can help your customers feel a renewed sense of purpose on National Encouragement Day!
Send Friendly Reminders
The adjustment to COVID life has been difficult for many, allowing some healthy habits to fall by the wayside, like self-care and workouts. We can all be a little forgetful at times, which is why a friendly reminder to your customers can go a long way toward achieving their fitness goals. Use Vagaro’s email marketing feature to connect with customers who haven’t checked in for a while to give your clientele a gateway to jump-start their routine again. Send an email or text to help customers remember how much they enjoyed their yoga sessions, spa treatments, or personal training appointments. Your personalized message can be inspiring and help your business stay top-of-mind!
Offer Promo Codes
While some customers can be encouraged by a simple reminder, others might need an added incentive to get re-invested in their old habits. Get customers back in the door with a discount code, such as “StayPositive15.” Remember, your encouragement can be reassuring to customers who’ve let their routine lapse, letting them know they’re on the right path or the validation they need.

Share Motivational Messages
You’ve successfully encouraged your customers to engage with your business, but how do you keep them inspired?
It’s simple! A motivational welcome message sets the tone for their session, whether they’re in-store or checking in virtually. Once a customer scans themselves in using the Vagaro Check-In app, a customized message of your choosing will be displayed on your tablet, starting their experience on a positive note. Leaving customers satisfied is your priority but going the extra mile to make them feel empowered is a bonus. Upon departure, one parting checkout message congratulating them on a job well done is the perfect send-off for the rest of the day.
Bright Idea: In your message, consider saying “Keep up the good work!” or “Enjoy yourself!” These messages can be expanded on in texts and emails, but for in-store customers a jovial banner on your display screens is very welcoming.

The COVID world has redefined the way many of us approach everyday life and makes rediscovering the things that make customers feel “normal” more challenging. A little motivation can create big results. National Encouragement Day is about uplifting one another and many of us could use a pat on the back, now more than ever. When it comes to fitness goals, always keep your eye on the prize and help your customers remain focused with Vagaro by your side!
Images: Giorgio Trovato via Vagaro
[post_title] => How to Spread Positivity on National Encouragement Day [post_excerpt] => Staying motivated during the extended social distancing of COVID-19 is challenging, and your customers can always use a little extra encouragement. This is especially true when it comes to working out! While both you and your clients’ daily and weekly routines may be thrown out of sync, reestablishing the goals and activities they enjoy can help restore their motivation levels. Let’s explore some ways you can help your customers feel a renewed sense of purpose on National Encouragement Day! [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-spread-positivity-on-national-encouragement-day [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2020-09-11 17:40:31 [post_modified_gmt] => 2020-09-11 17:40:31 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://vagaro-blog.azurewebsites.net/how-to-spread-positivity-on-national-encouragement-day/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => btb_post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) ) [post_count] => 6 [current_post] => -1 [in_the_loop] => [post] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10547 [post_author] => 12 [post_date] => 2021-10-08 22:08:47 [post_date_gmt] => 2021-10-08 22:08:47 [post_content] => Hey, how are you feeling today? This is probably a question you ask your customers daily, but how often do you check in with yourself? As a business owner, juggling the needs of staff and customers can be overwhelming, and may leave you feeling physically and mentally wiped out. In fact, studies have shown that 62% of business owners feel depressed at least once a week! (smallbiztrends.com) That’s surprising considering entrepreneurs carry so much responsibility for their staff and clients. With this in mind, it’s extremely important for business owners to look after their own mental health problems and adopt a healthy work-life balance to keep yourself and your business thriving. Here are four ways to care for your and your employees' mental health:
Me Time is Important
Whether you are a single business owner, or manage a small enterprise, creating a healthy work-life balance is essential. Doing so can prevent a potential burnout, leaving you and your business to suffer.
Choosing a specific range of hours for work and leisure is key. Consider turning your phone and other communication channels off once your workday is over. You can also schedule time on your calendar for yourself or family, in order to ensure you get the downtime you need. Take a break from social media as well, freeing up more time to focus on yourself.
You can also celebrate World Mental Health Day (October 10) and take a personal day!
Insider Vagaro Tip 1: In your Vagaro calendar, there is an option to book personal time for yourself.
Be a Model of Mental Health
As the saying goes, “if you’re going to talk the talk, you better walk the walk.”
Leading a healthy work-life balance will set an example and help raise awareness about the importance of good mental health. Modeling healthy behaviours will inspire your team and family members to do the same.
Organize a retreat for your staff in honor of World Mental Health Day, exercise, take walks or share that you’re going to a therapy appointment. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and have conversations about mental health issues in order to raise awareness and advocacy around it.
Insider Vagaro Tip 2: Vagaro offers Gusto integration to businesses for payroll ease.
Stay Productive, My Friend
It may sound counterintuitive, but staying productive is a great way to relieve mental stress. As stated above, exercise is a sure way to maintain your overall health; but tackling mundane work projects can be just as useful to keep extra stress at bay. Learning a new business-related skill or completing that big project you’ve been putting off can boost your mood and mental well-being, giving you a sense of purpose and accomplishment.Treat Yourself, Don’t Cheat Yourself
If you are in the beauty, fitness or wellness industries, you spend most of your time caring for others’ health and well-being. But, when was the last time you treated yourself to a spa day or set aside a whole afternoon to yourself? Pampering yourself or celebrating small victories like gaining three new clients can be a huge motivator in increasing your mood. When you reward yourself, your brain produces feel good chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, decreasing the chance of depression and loss of motivation. Running a business can be extremely rewarding, but also very stressful. The health and wellbeing of your employees and customers often come before your own, which can lead to mental health fatigue. In fact, business owners are more likely to experience mental illnesses or health issues more frequently than nonbusiness owners. (smallbiztrends.com) The solution is to create a sustainable work-life balance to maintain good mental health. Scheduling personal time, leading a healthy lifestyle, staying active and giving back to yourself are just a few ways to promote mental health. For more support, you can also speak with a mental health professional to ensure you stay on the path to wellness. After all, we see professionals for our physical health. What makes our mental health any different? Here are a few online mental health resources: https://www.betterhelp.com https://moodhealth.com https://www.talkspace.com [post_title] => Why Your Mental Health Matters for Your Business [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => why-mental-health-matters-business [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2021-10-08 22:08:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2021-10-08 22:08:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://vagaro-blog2.azurewebsites.net/uncategorized-en-gb/why-your-mental-health-matters-for-your-business/ [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => btb_post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 9 [max_num_pages] => 2 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => [is_tag] => [is_tax] => 1 [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_privacy_policy] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_favicon] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => 1 [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => 53ba02a7cef179792c2a0765b057ee90 [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => 1 [thumbnails_cached] => [allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) )Wellness
Why Your Mental Health Matters for Your Business
Hey, how are you feeling today? This is probably a question you ask your customers daily, but how often do you check in with yourself? As a business owner, juggling the needs of staff and customers can be overwhelming, and may leave you feeling physically and mentally wiped out. In fact, studies have shown that 62% of business owners feel depressed at…
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Incorporate National Health Education Week Into Your Business
Started by the SOPHE in 1995, National Health Education Week (NHEW) has been instrumental in raising awareness regarding health issues for over 20 years. The third week of October is dedicated to better understanding healthier living, both mentally and physically. From October 19-23, 2020, make a plan to incorporate NHEW into your business and attract new clients through education.
Keep Your Skills Sharp or Start a New Career with Online Education
National Online Learning Day, observed on September 15, honors America’s online learning communities – which is especially important in 2020! This national day originated to celebrate the accessibility, personalization, and convenience of online learning. This year, COVID-19 has prompted many schools – to take the classroom online, expanding the horizon of possibility. Here’s how beauty and fitness professionals can go online to renew, expand, and keep their skill set up to date.
How to Spread Positivity on National Encouragement Day
Staying motivated during the extended social distancing of COVID-19 is challenging, and your customers can always use a little extra encouragement. This is especially true when it comes to working out! While both you and your clients’ daily and weekly routines may be thrown out of sync, reestablishing the goals and activities they enjoy can help restore their motivation levels. Let’s explore some ways you can help your customers feel a renewed sense of purpose on National Encouragement Day!
About Vagaro
Vagaro is a cloud-based scheduling software commonly used by beauty, fitness, and wellness businesses to manage booking, credit card payments and processing, marketing, payroll, inventory management, reporting, and much more.