Ugh… more social media advice? We get it.
But hang with us for a minute — this article includes tactical strategies, real scripts, templates, and systems that have been tested across hundreds of salons working with FillYourBooks.com.
You can start using these today in under 10 minutes.
Social media can be one of the most powerful tools for salon growth. But if you’ve ever thought, “Is this actually working?” — this is for you.
These five strategies will help you get in front of more ideal clients, build trust with your audience, and turn your content into real bookings.
No burnout. No influencer pressure. No fancy tech.
Strategy 1: Use Instagram as a Digital Referral Engine
We all know word-of-mouth is powerful. But those conversations aren’t just happening over coffee anymore — they’re happening on Instagram.
People tag, post, and share what they love with their friends every single day.
Here’s a system we teach at FillYourBooks.com that makes this easy and repeatable:
After a stylist finishes an appointment, they snap a selfie with the client.
1. They post it to their Story or feed and tag the client.
2. Then (this is key), they ask the client to reshare the post.
3. That share is the modern-day referral. Now their friends, family, and coworkers see the transformation — along with your stylist’s handle and salon name.
One stylist doing this once a week = hundreds of new impressions monthly. Free, organic growth through trusted circles.
Strategy 2: Pin with Purpose
Instagram lets you pin 3 posts to the top of your profile — use them wisely. This is your digital storefront.
At FillYourBooks.com, we teach salons to use these 3 types of posts:
1. Transformation Compilation
Bold before-and-after photos or videos that show range and skill. Think dramatic color shifts, extensions, or total makeovers.
2. Educational Post
A “3 tips” or “3 myths” video that shares helpful advice. This builds authority and starts the trust cycle.
Example Script:
“Hey! If you’re in the [City Name] area and need a salon you can finally trust, here are 3 reasons our clients love us… (1, 2, 3). Curious what we can do for you? Send us a message!”
3. Client Experience Tour
Show what it’s like to walk into your space, get pampered, and walk out glowing. Film the full experience, then overlay a friendly voiceover.
Done right, this makes booking feel like a no-brainer.
Strategy 3: Stop Posting. Start Planning.
At FillYourBooks.com, one of the biggest wins we give our clients is a real content system — not more ideas, but structure.
If content feels like a hamster wheel, this is why. You’re chasing, not planning.
Step 1: Build a Plan with AI
Use ChatGPT or any AI tool with this simple prompt:
“Hey ChatGPT, I own a salon. What makes us unique is [insert 2–3 things]. We want a 30-day content plan to attract new local clients and build trust. We shoot content on iPhones. Please make it easy and repeatable.”
Step 2: Schedule Creation Time
Know what to post AND when to make it.
Example:
Tuesdays = photo/video day
Wednesdays = tips & Canva carousels
Fridays = testimonials
Step 3: Delegate or DIY
Even if it’s just your front desk person handling Canva, consistency is the goal. (We even show salons how to outsource it inside FillYourBooks.com.)
Once it’s on the calendar, it’s no longer a “chore” — it’s a system.
Strategy 4: Language Matters More Than You Realize
Your words shape the way people feel about your brand. And feelings impact decisions — including whether someone books with you.
Let’s Use a Dating Example:
Imagine you meet someone at a coffee shop.
Bad text: “Wanna come over tonight?”
Too much, too soon. You ghost them.
Good text: “Hey, it was nice meeting you earlier — thanks for making my day.”
Polite, respectful, zero pressure.
See the difference?
Now apply that to your captions and Stories.
High-pressure CTA: “DM us to book an appointment.”
Low-pressure CTA: “If you’re curious what we could do for you, message us to ask about our complimentary consultations.”
The second one opens the door without pushing someone through it.
At FillYourBooks.com, we call this “neutral invitation language.” It builds trust without sounding desperate.
Strategy 5: Send DMs (the Right Way)
Let’s clear the air: DMs aren’t spam if they’re real, human, and simple.
Here’s how we recommend you approach it inside your salon:
WHO to DM:
– New followers
– Recent likers
– Anyone who tags or mentions you
– Locals in your target audience (like realtors, moms, fitness influencers)
WHAT to Say:
Keep it honest and friendly.
“Hey [Name], I’m [Your Name] at [Salon]. Thanks for following — it means a lot!”
Or for locals:
“Hey! We’ve helped a bunch of local real estate agents in the area feel amazing in the chair — figured I’d introduce myself. Hope business is good!”
HOW Often:
Start with 5–10/week. That’s 250–500 personal brand touches a year — for $0.
This is still one of the highest-leverage, no-cost moves in your salon marketing playbook.
Final Word from FillYourBooks.com
Social media doesn’t need to feel like a second job. When you bring clarity, structure, and brand intention to the table — it becomes a growth engine.
At FillYourBooks.com, we help salon teams implement strategies like these (and a whole lot more) so they can stop guessing, get booked out, and grow with confidence.
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