THE IMPORTANCE OF PRE-BOARDING IN THE HAIRDRESSING, COSMETOLOGY, AND BEAUTY INDUSTRY

The Hairdressing, Cosmetology, and Beauty industry in South Africa thrives on creativity, innovation, and a strong focus on client satisfaction. To maintain excellence in this vibrant field, businesses must pay close attention to their onboarding strategies—starting with pre-boarding.

Pre-boarding is the stage between a new employee's acceptance of a job offer and their first day at work. It is important to ensure a smooth transition and setting the foundation for long-term success.

Why Pre-Boarding is Important

First impressions matter, and pre-boarding is the first opportunity for a Salon, Spa or Beauty Establishment to make new employees feel welcomed and supported. For stylists, nail technicians, makeup artists, and skincare specialists who often deal with specific tools, techniques, and client-facing roles, a tailored pre-boarding process ensures they are adequately prepared and equipped to excel.

Beyond building confidence, pre-boarding helps ensure compliance with the Collective Agreement for the Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty and Skincare Industry, and occupational health and safety requirements, supporting a seamless integration into the workplace.

Key Steps in a Successful Pre-Boarding Process

Implementing an effective pre-boarding strategy involves clear communication and careful planning. Here are some important steps:

Personalised Welcome: Kick off the pre-boarding process by sending a warm and personalised welcome letter or email to the new employee. Include an outline of what they can expect in their initial days at the salon or spa and the resources available to help them.

Paperwork Completion: Ensure that all necessary documents, such as employment contracts aligned with the Collective Agreement, Registration with the Bargaining Council, Tax forms are finalised before the employee's first day. This reduces administrative burdens and allows the employee to focus on their first day.

Highlighting Employee Benefits: During pre-boarding, clearly explain the industry-specific benefits that come with employment in this industry such as the Sick Pay Fund, Verso pension fund and Maternity Benefits

Clarification of Deductions: Provide transparent information about required deductions:

1.3% Bargaining Council Levy (paid by both employer and employee)
0.5% Sick Pay Fund contribution (from both employer and employee)
6% Pension Fund contribution, 6.5% Pension Fund contribution (KZN) (with employer matching 6% or 6.5%)
UASA (Union) or Agency fee of R168.00 (2025)

Introduction to the Workplace: Share details about the salon's/spa's culture, values, and policies to give the employee an understanding of the environment they'll be joining. This could include a virtual tour, a welcome video showcasing previous work, or a handbook with the establishments signature techniques and styles.

Training and Development: Provide access to training resources ahead of time. Materials covering hygiene protocols, product knowledge for brands, customer service standards, or specific styling and treatment techniques help employees enter their roles with confidence.

Preparing Their Workstation: Ensure the employee's station is ready with the tools, supplies, or equipment they'll need whether that's a styling chair, nail station, or treatment room so they can start working effectively from day one, in compliance with the minimum equipment standards set out in the Collective Agreement.

The Benefits of Pre-Boarding for your establishment

An efficient pre-boarding process offers numerous advantages for your salon or beauty establishment:

Boosts Retention: New stylists and therapists who feel welcomed and prepared are more likely to stay with the salon long-term, reducing the high turnover common in the industry.
Enhances Productivity: Beauty professionals who enter the workplace with the right tools and training can contribute effectively from day one.
Strengthens Workplace Culture: A well-structured pre-boarding process reflects positively on the establishment, showcasing its dedication to employee success and fostering a positive work environment that clients will notice.
Ensures Compliance: By familiarising new employees with industry regulations and the Collective Agreement during pre-boarding, businesses can avoid potential disputes and penalties from the Bargaining Council or the Department of Labour.

How the EOHCB can Assist

The Employers' Organisation for Hairdressing, Cosmetology and Beauty (EOHCB) offers valuable support for salon owners during the pre-boarding process:

Standard Documentation: The EOHCB provides standardised employment contracts and templates that comply with the Collective Agreement, saving salon owners time and ensuring legal compliance.
Compliance Guidance: Expert advice on meeting all regulatory requirements, including minimum wage standards, working hours, and health and safety protocols.
Dispute Resolution: Support in preventing and resolving workplace disputes through proper documentation and clear communication from the pre-boarding stage.
Regular Updates: Information on changes to the Collective Agreement or industry regulations that may affect your pre-boarding process.

Pre-boarding is important but, overlooked step in building a skilled and satisfied team in the hairdressing, cosmetology, and beauty industry. By prioritising this process and leveraging the resources available through the EOHCB and the Bargaining Council establishments can prepare new employees for success, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and enhance their overall experience.

Investing in pre-boarding isn't just about welcoming new employees—it's about setting them and your establishment up for growth and excellence in an industry where talent, skill, and regulatory compliance are met.