What You Need to Know Before Reopening Your Barbershop After a Closure

Understanding Reopening Requirements for Barbershops

So, your barbershop’s been closed for a while—maybe due to renovations, a pandemic, or just an extended vacation. You’re itching to get back to business, but what are the actual steps to take before you throw open those doors?

You might think that a big grand reopening sale could cover everything, but guess what? That’s not the only—and definitely not the first—thing you need to do. When it comes to reopening after a temporary closure of 90 days or longer, there’s a critical requirement you must satisfy: Notify the department in writing and be inspected. Let’s break this down, shall we?

Why Notification Matters

It might sound a little bureaucratic, but notifying the department ensures that everything is up to snuff regarding safety and health regulations. Can you imagine the chaos if a shop reopened without meeting the minimum safety standards? Yikes! This step is all about making sure you, your staff, and your returning customers are safe and healthy.

Think of it like prepping for a big family dinner—cleaning up, making sure everything’s in working order, and double-checking that you have all the right ingredients for a successful meal. In the case of your barbershop, those 'ingredients' include complying with health codes and checking your equipment.

What About Rehiring Employees?

Now, many barbershop owners might ask if they need to rehire all previous employees upon reopening. The answer is a resounding “no.” While you might want all your old crew back, that decision is entirely up to you and your business needs. Some might be ready to jump back into their clippers, while others may have moved on. It’s like assembling a band—sometimes you get the whole team back, and sometimes you need new talent to add something fresh.

Business License Considerations

You’re probably wondering about your business license too. If your license is still valid, you don’t need to apply for a new one. Applying again would only be necessary if the previous license expired during that closure period. Keeping tabs on your licenses is crucial—it’s like keeping your car registration up to date. Forgetting one can cause all sorts of trouble down the line.

Making the Most of Your Reopening

While hosting a grand reopening sale isn’t a requirement, let’s face it—it can be a fantastic way to get people excited about returning to your barbershop. Think about enticing offers or promotions that show your commitment to quality and service. After all, who doesn’t love a good deal? It’s also a great way to remind your community that you’re back in business.

Holding Yourself to Standards

Ultimately, reputation matters in this business. Taking these steps shows that you’re serious about maintaining high standards and fulfilling your responsibilities. This not only protects your clients but also positions you as a trustworthy provider in your community.

As you prepare to reopen your doors, remember: safety comes first, but great service will keep your clients coming back. You’re ready to ride the wave of excitement from reopening, but first, lay a strong foundation. Do you have everything you need in place? Are you ready to welcome your customers with a smile?

Follow these steps, and you'll be well on your way to a successful reopening, steadying the ship on this exciting journey. Good luck, and happy cutting!