039 The Importance of Website Design and Digital Marketing

We live in a world where, to varying degrees, everyone is connected by technology. I heard a statement recently that was "Every business is now a technology business!" and I believe that statement to be true. The hub of technology in the salon industry is the salon website and social media platforms, and all things reach out from that. So, having an effective website and marketing strategy that incorporates social media is essential if you want to be in business today. When I had salons, my frustration was finding a website designer who didn't just make something look good but also made it work from a technology, and most of all marketing point of view, because they are 3 very different skills. My guest on today's Podcast is Phil Evans Founder of Salon Guru, a website design and digital marketing company with a global client base. In today's episode, we will discuss: Website design Digital Marketing SEO And lots more! In This Episode: [01:37] Welcome to the show, Phil! [02:07] Phil shares his background, what Salon Guru is all about. [04:44] What are the biggest mistakes you see with salon websites? [08:01] Salon websites are a tool and should be all about the functionality. [09:37] Phil shares his five top functions; a salon website must have to bring in customers. [11:07] Phil believes that SEO is the most important thing you need to be seen. [13:48] Why do salons need a website? Why can't they use social media? [16:24] Phil says that if you are a salon of one, a website is necessary if you want to grow. [18:17] How important is it to have an online booking function on their website? [21:40] Phil speaks about how he works with salons and how they decide what they want on their website. [23:03] Phil shares that they do not use templates for websites because the content is different for each one. [25:23] When you build a website, is it possible for the salon owner to make changes? [29:07] Phil discusses online stores for salons and whether they make money for the salon. [31:24] Phil speaks about how he has advised salons to keep in communication with their clients on their websites. [33:46] How often do you suggest salon websites be updated? [36:01] Phil shares what he thinks websites will look like in five years. [38:35] Phil speaks about social media integration on the websites. [40:44] Do you have a favourite site that you have designed? [42:49] Phil discusses the most effective campaign he has ever done. [46:10] Thank you so much for being on the show today. Links and Resources Grow My Salon Business  Find Phil Phil Evans @salonguru Facebook  @philip-evans LinkedIn