The Daily Groomer: The Biggest Takeaway from Dara Forleo

Hey there Daily Groomer fans, Alex here! I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with the amazing entrepreneur Dara Forleo on our latest episode. If you haven't listened yet, let me give you a quick background on our guest.

Dara Forleo is a true powerhouse in the grooming industry, with over two decades of experience and education backing her up. Not only has she founded multiple successful grooming businesses, but she's also running a nationwide mentor program for other grooming business owners. Trust me when I say, this woman knows her stuff!

Now, onto the biggest takeaway from our conversation. Throughout our discussion, Dara emphasized the importance of setting yourself up for success as a salon owner. And by that, I mean transitioning from being solely a pet stylist to also being a business owner.

It's all too easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks of grooming, focusing solely on making pets look their best. But Dara reminds us that in order to truly grow and thrive, we must also dedicate time and effort to working on the business, not just in it.

This realization can be a game-changer for those of us in the grooming industry. It means understanding the value we bring to the table beyond our grooming skills, and recognizing the importance of building a solid foundation for our businesses.

Building that foundation starts with having a well-thought-out business plan, serving as a roadmap for progress. Without it, progress can be uncertain and challenging, like trying to roll a snowball uphill. Dara stresses the need for us to have our "shit together" and present ourselves as confident, knowledgeable business owners.

But it doesn't stop there. Dara also urges salon owners to think about the future. Setting intentions and thinking ahead can make all the difference in staying ahead of competitors and ensuring long-term success.

Another significant takeaway was the importance of education and continuous learning. Dara herself holds a bachelor's degree in business, and she firmly believes that education in this field is crucial. It took her time to fully invest in the business side of things, but now she thrives on the growth and opportunities it brings.

Now, I know that taking the leap from pet stylist to business owner can feel overwhelming. But fear not! Here at The Daily Groomer, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way. Sign up for our newsletter to receive valuable insights, tips, and tricks from industry experts, and stay tuned for more amazing episodes.

Stay groomed and stay tuned,

Alex Martin