Sandy Chong CEO Australian Hairdressing Council and 2023 COSBOA Small Business Champion on pathways from a trade to business ownership.

Show Notes

@Sandy Chong brings 39 years experience as a salon owner to her current role as CEO at @The Australian Hairdressing Council. She's the current @cosboa #smallbusinesschampion and has multiple other board and advisory roles that involve advocacy and improving effectiveness for industry bodies.

Sandy sold her own salon during 2023 to focus on her CEO role. In that role she is actively involved in advocating for small businesses and shaping the future of the industry. Her extensive background as a business owner gives her valuable insights to guide those aspiring to venture into entrepreneurship and business ownership after completing their trade apprenticeships.

In our discussion we talk about;

• the crucial role industry bodies play in supporting and advocating for small businesses
• the importance of education and training in helping #apprentices into skilled professionals and business owners
• how vital apprenticeships are for the growth and sustainability of industries.
• why small businesses, like hairdressing salons, have such a significant impact on the community and contribute to people's self-esteem and mental wellness
• nurturing and developing homegrown talent
• navigating the impact of Government Regulations on hairdressers
• addressing #skillshortages and Workforce Sustainability in trades
• what she learnt running a salon with up to 45 staff (all but 1 apprenticed by Sandy!) over 39 years
• shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities within the hairdressing industry
• inspiring entrepreneurs in the trades industry

I think hairdressers often give back and I think that's one thing that really stands out for me, is they have really incredible business structures. They're incredibly generous to their staff, but it's the community generosity. - Sandy Chong

Visit the Australian Hairdressing Council website at www.ahc.org.au to learn more about the organization and its initiatives.

Timestamped summary of this episode:

00:00:12 - Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 
Michael Ker introduces the Small Business Banter podcast and its relevance to business owners, especially those looking to sell or buy a new business. He emphasizes the stress, emotions, and challenges involved in these processes.

00:01:21 - Sandy Chong's Background and Role 
Sandy Chong shares her extensive background as the CEO of the Australian Hairdressers Council and her experience as a past salon owner for 39 years. She highlights the importance of developing relationships with clients and the unique challenges of the hairdressing industry.

00:07:20 - Career Opportunities in Hairdressing 
Discussion on the potential career opportunities in the hairdressing industry, including the potential for financial success, international work, and diverse roles beyond salon ownership. Emphasis on the importance of education and training for career growth.

00:09:50 - Apprenticeship and Business Ownership 
Sandy Chong reflects on her commitment to apprenticing her staff and the importance of finding the right buyer for her salon. She discusses the need for a pathway to guide talented practitioners toward business ownership and the challenges of running a business.

00:14:59 - Industry Support and Sustainability 
Sandy Chong emphasizes the role of industry associations in educating and supporting business owners, particularly in navigating complex issues such as industrial relations and HR. The importance of belonging to an association for access to industry-specific information and support is highlighted.

00:16:25 - Migration Review and Industry Concerns 
Sandy discusses the release of the migration review and expresses concern for the hairdressing industry's exclusion due to high sponsorship costs. She highlights the industry's need for sustainability and lower tismet.

00:17:37 - Challenges and Solutions for the Industry 
Sandy addresses the skill shortage in the predominantly female hairdressing industry and emphasizes the importance of investing in apprenticeships and adapting to the changing preferences of younger workers. She also mentions the potential benefits of new jobs and skills councils.

00:19:38 - Encouraging School-Based Apprenticeships 
Sandy discusses the potential of school-based apprenticeship programs and the benefits of group training organizations for higher completion rates. She also highlights the challenges faced by single operator salons and the financial barriers for young people entering the industry.

00:21:41 - Financial Management and Small Business Challenges 
The conversation shifts to the financial challenges faced by small business owners, particularly in managing cash flow, profit and loss, and the complexities of industrial relations. Sandy emphasizes the need for education and support in understanding basic finances and business value.

00:32:01 - The Value of Small Businesses in Communities 
Sandy and the host highlight the vital role of small businesses, including hairdressing, in supporting community well-being and mental health. They emphasize the personal and social aspects of the hairdressing experience, going beyond just a haircut.

00:33:05 - Passion for Small Business and Cosboa Small Business Champion Award 
Sandy Chong discusses her deep passion for small business and receiving the Cosboa Small Business Champion Award in April. She highlights her role as an ambassador and her commitment to lobbying and advocacy work for small businesses.

00:35:36 - Driving Force behind Small Business Ownership 
Sandy Chong shares her motivation for becoming a small business owner, emphasizing the inclusivity and culture of the hairdressing industry. She also discusses her desire to be a successful business person and contribute to the industry through education and training.

00:37:01 - The Mindset of Small Business Owners 
The conversation delves into the mindset of small business owners, highlighting their humble beginnings, lack of strategic planning, and the drive to seize opportunities. The discussion also touches on the purpose, financial benefits, and challenges of small business ownership.

00:40:38 - Small Business Heroes and Inspirational Figures 
Sandy Chong mentions several inspirational figures in the hairdressing industry, recognizing their ethical standards, charitable work, and community generosity. She emphasizes the impact of these individuals on the industry and their ability to inspire the next generation of small business owners.

00:43:22 - Reaching Out to Sandy Chong 
Sandy Chong provides information on how to reach out to her as the CEO of the Australian Hairdressing Council and the current small business champion. She encourages individuals to visit the council's website and emphasizes her accessibility for inquiries and support.

Thanks for listening.  Visit the Small Business Banter website to subscribe, listen back, or check out any resources or information mentioned on the show.

Search @SmallBusinessBanter on your favorite podcast player to subscribe and listen to the episodes.

Reach out to Michael Kerr via the website if you need personal assistance or advice for your small business.

michael.kerr@kerrcapital.com.au

www.smallbusinessbanter.com.au