5 Low-Cost Ways to Attract New Clients to Your Salon

Whether you're running a new salon or trying to fill empty spots in your books, growing your clientele doesn't always require a big ad budget. Here are five low-cost (and high-impact) ways to bring in new clients and build lasting relationships.

1. Referral Cards That Reward Loyalty

Happy clients are your best promoters. Create simple referral cards offering a discount to both the current client and the friend they refer (e.g., “Get $10 off your next service when your friend books!”). Make it easy to share—digital or paper.

2. Post More "Behind-the-Scenes" Content

People buy people. Share more raw, in-the-moment videos of you setting up for the day, mixing color, or educating a client. These types of posts create connection and trust, and they help potential clients feel like they already know you.

3. Partner with Local Businesses

Reach new people by teaming up with other small businesses—think coffee shops, yoga studios, boutiques. Offer exclusive deals to their customers or host a joint event. You’ll get in front of a whole new audience, without spending a dime on ads.

4. Optimize Your Google Business Profile

If you haven’t claimed and updated your Google profile, do it now. Add photos, list your services, respond to reviews, and post weekly updates. Most people search “hair salon near me” before they ever visit Instagram.

5. Offer First-Time Client Specials

Give people a reason to try you. A limited-time promo like “$20 blowout for first-time guests” can bring in volume—and once they sit in your chair, your talent will keep them coming back.