Beauty Business in a Staff-Shortage: How to Get Started

Posted on June 2nd, 2025.

In the ever-evolving beauty industry, there are countless opportunities waiting to be seized. With boundless creativity and room for innovation, this field offers a chance to make your mark.

However, one notable hurdle stands in the way: a shortage of staff. This obstacle, though challenging, presents a chance for salon owners and beauty entrepreneurs to evaluate and reinvent their methods and strategies.

So, let's take a closer look at the dynamics shaping the beauty industry and explore how to thrive in the face of these challenges.

Understanding Beauty Business Amid Workforce Shortages

As beauty entrepreneurs, particularly women from Hispanic and Black communities, enter this field, they may find both challenges and opportunities. With a limited workforce, even established salons may experience slower service times and reduced client satisfaction if they cannot find skilled workers to meet demand. Consequently, newcomers need to find creative solutions to attract and retain talent.

Such strategies may involve offering competitive wages, fostering a supportive work culture, or even investing in training to upskill their staff. It’s imperative to understand that while the shortage can cause operational hiccups, it also presents a chance to innovate how beauty services are delivered. If you are just starting, it might be worth considering a business model that leverages digital tools and platforms to reach a wider clientele base or incorporates flexible staffing arrangements that appeal to those seeking a less traditional work schedule.

Women looking to enter the beauty industry during these times may have to rethink traditional paths to building a successful business. Given the widespread shortage of skilled beauty professionals, it is crucial to prioritize the development of robust employee development plans. You might explore partnerships with educational institutions to create pipelines for talented graduates who are eager to work in such a dynamic industry.

Having clear communication around your business’s mission is crucial to attracting like-minded professionals who are drawn to your vision. At the same time, it's beneficial to offer varied apprenticeships and internships, which could serve as a stepping stone for many starting professionals. Given the focus on diversity and inclusion in workplace culture, emphasizing these aspects in your training and operational procedures can also help set your business apart and attract talent looking to work in more progressive environments.

While the hurdles are real, they can be navigated effectively with strategic planning and proactive engagement. It's important not to let the challenges of workforce shortages discourage your entrepreneurial aspirations. Instead, focus on what differentiates your potential business—whether it’s unique services, innovative marketing strategies, or a strong community connection—especially in reaching underserved areas.

The relationship you build with your team is just as important as the services you offer. By nurturing an environment where staff feel valued and involved, you’ll be in a better position to weather the storm of workforce shortages and come out with a thriving business. These efforts can transform potential obstacles into opportunities for long-term success in the beauty business. 

Attracting and Retaining Talent in Beauty Businesses

Creating an attractive package for potential employees in the beauty sector can make a significant difference in your ability to build a team. To attract and retain employees in your beauty business during these challenging times, you’ll want to adopt a multipronged approach.

Competitive compensation is fundamental. This doesn’t mean only the wages but also includes benefits and work-life balance considerations. A flexible schedule can be a magnet for talent who value personal time. Moreover, offering health benefits and continuous education stipends can make your package even more enticing.

Employees today are looking for more than just a paycheck—they seek a workplace where they can grow and feel supported. Incorporating professional development opportunities, such as workshops, certifications, or mentorship programs, sends a clear message to potential employees: you’re investing in their future, not just hiring them to fill a gap. Encouraging creativity and acknowledging achievements through rewards or recognitions can foster a positive work environment, enhancing retention.

Despite the odds, it's important to dig deeper into the quality of the workplace environment you’re pitching. An inclusive work environment is not just about diversity statistics but about creating a culture where all employees feel respected and valued. This can be particularly appealing to professionals from diverse backgrounds, making your beauty business a welcoming place. Here’s where being bilingual or culturally knowledgeable can really make your business stand out in neighborhoods with rich, diverse populations.

When young women feel represented and supported, they’re more likely to stick around. Moreover, equity in opportunities and fair treatment must be woven into the very fabric of your operations. Celebrating cultural events, recognizing multicultural beauty trends, and engaging in community outreach reflect a commitment beyond the walls of your salon. Each individual has a unique contribution to offer, and by valuing these, you create loyalty among your team members, who become your brand champions.

In addition to building workplace culture, leveraging workforce strategies such as apprenticeship opportunities or strategic partnerships with beauty schools can help maintain a steady flow of fresh talent. Get creative—host monthly meet-and-greets or career nights to connect with potential hires and showcase what makes working for your boutique or salon special. Cultivating relationships with vocational schools not only supports the education of future cosmetologists and nail technicians but also positions your business as a go-to employer.

Innovative Strategies for Launching and Growing Your Beauty Brand

One innovative approach is to differentiate your brand through entrepreneurial strategies that highlight your unique value proposition. Standing out in the market requires a clear understanding of what you bring to the table that others don’t. Start by identifying gaps in the market or unmet needs within your target demographic. Perhaps your target audience is seeking natural and organic products or specific services that reflect cultural beauty practices. Positioning your brand as a leader in these niches can cement your presence.

In addition, storytelling plays a pivotal role in brand differentiation. By sharing your brand’s story and mission, you can evoke an emotional connection with your customers, who are increasingly looking to support businesses that align with their values. This narrative can be woven into everything from marketing materials to the training you offer to your staff, ensuring consistency and authenticity. It’s also important to utilize visual storytelling. Invest in professional branding that speaks to your identity and values, from logo design to product presentations. This visual coherence helps create a memorable brand that stands out in a crowded marketplace.

Technology is a crucial ally when launching a beauty brand. By incorporating tech solutions, you can streamline operations and enhance customer experience. For example, utilizing a robust booking system can help manage appointments effectively, even when dealing with limited staff. This not only reduces administrative burdens but also ensures clients receive timely service, which is key for customer satisfaction and retention. Moreover, digital platforms and social media are indispensable for marketing and building a community around your brand. Through a strong online presence, you can reach a wider audience and engage directly with potential customers. 

Community engagement is key to fostering sustainable business growth, particularly in underserved areas. Building a network within your community can enhance your brand’s visibility and establish loyalty. Hosting workshops or beauty classes allows you to educate your audience while showcasing your expertise. These events can generate interest and excitement around your brand, attract new customers, and strengthen existing relationships. They also offer opportunities for potential partnerships with local businesses, schools, or community organizations, further embedding your brand in the local scene.

Social responsibility should be an integral part of your brand ethos. Committing to affordable yet quality services in areas that need it most shows that you care about more than just profit, which can deeply resonate with your clientele. Partnerships with organizations that share your values, such as those focusing on women's empowerment or vocational training, can extend your impact beyond the immediate business gains.

Such collaborations not only provide invaluable networking opportunities but also enhance your brand’s reputation, attract media attention, and drive word-of-mouth referrals. Lastly, make sure that your brand reflects the diversity of the community it serves, fostering an environment that is inclusive and welcoming to all.

Related: Creating Beauty: Balancing Creativity with Professionalism

Looking for Expert Help?

Are you ready to turn your passion for beauty into a thriving business, even amid workforce shortages? At AM Academy, we provide expert coaching tailored to help you navigate the challenges of starting your own beauty business.

Our comprehensive programs cover everything from market research to branding and marketing strategies, ensuring you have the tools you need to succeed in this competitive industry. Don’t let the current landscape hold you back—take the first step towards your entrepreneurial dream today!

Contact us now to learn more about our coaching services for beauty businesses and start your journey to success!

Reach us directly at (317) 480-7268 or via email at [email protected] for tailored guidance.