Background:
In early 2022, a solo stylist running a modest neighbourhood salon in Singapore approached us. The business had a monthly revenue of just S$6,000, no online presence, and minimal foot traffic outside their existing walk-in customer base.
Their goal? To survive and grow — in one of the most competitive and regulated markets in Southeast Asia.
The Challenges:
As we dug deeper, we realized the problems were not just digital — they were operational too.
• Zero online presence: No website, no Google listing, no social media.
• Manual operations: Paper-based bookings, accounts, and customer data.
• Hiring limitations: Struggles with staffing due to local government hiring restrictions.
• Lack of digital culture: Staff unfamiliar with online tools, marketing, or customer experience workflows.
• No social proof: No reviews, no before-after photos, no feedback loop.
👉 Read: fixing-bad-google-reviews-proven-strategies-to-rebuild-your-online-reputation/
Our Strategy & Execution:
We approached this project as a full-stack business growth challenge — not just SEO or social media.
🔹 Phase 1: Digital Foundation
• Built a conversion-optimized website with booking system.
• Set up and verified Google Business Profile.
• Performed local SEO optimization targeting salon-specific queries.
🔹 Phase 2: Visibility + Credibility
• Created active Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook profiles.
• Produced and posted before/after transformation videos.
• Actively encouraged and collected customer Google reviews.
• Launched lightweight content & hashtag strategy to grow organically.
🔹 Phase 3: Operational Support & Internal Training
• Helped management systematize customer data and operations.
Trained staff on:
• Customer handling for digital era (e.g., photo consent, review requests).
• Capturing content (photo/video) during appointments.
• Set up internal process for analyzing feedback and improving services.
🔹 Phase 4: Momentum & Growth Loop
• Used positive customer feedback to fine-tune services.
• Promoted UGC (user-generated content) and happy stories.
• Ran occasional festive promotions with clear ROI tracking.
Results in 24 Months:
| Metric | 2022 (Before) | 2024 (After) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Revenue | S$6,000 | S$60,000+ (+900%) |
| Google Reviews | 0 | 400+ |
| TikTok Followers | 0 | 20,000+ |
| Branches | 1 | 2 |
| Local SEO Ranking | Not Visible | Top 3 for Key Services |
| Online Bookings | Manual (Paper-Based) | 80%+ via Website |
Reflection:
This project proved that digital marketing alone isn’t enough — real growth happens when marketing, operations, and customer experience work together.
“We didn’t just give this salon visibility — we helped them evolve into a brand.”
Even the smallest local business can become a community favourite when the right strategy is combined with heart and consistency.
Tools & Platforms Used:
• WordPress
• Google Business Profile
• Instagram, TikTok, Facebook
• Google Analytics + Search Console
• WhatsApp Business
• Canva
• Customer Feedback Framework (internal)
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you’re a local business looking to scale with clarity and structure, let’s talk 📞 WhatsApp us for more details.
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