Professional or Hobby Groomer: Why does it Matter?

The way that a groomer looks at their business (as a professional or as a hobby) allows Savvy Groomer to guide them in a specific way.

 A Hobby Groomer is less about the money and more about the fun, they may invest their skill set into something that may not have a strong or immediate return.  Which is fine, it’s a hobby! 
 
A Professional Groomer may need to be more focused and reserved in their investments.

YOUR MONEY WILL NEED TO BE HANDLED IN A DIFFERENT WAY!
 A Hobby Groomer is probably in a stage of life where they are retired, have dual income (maybe a stay at home mom or live with their parents), or enjoy grooming part time.  While this money will still need to be budgeted less of the net profit will need to go back into the business to grow and expand.. unless that's what you want to do!
 
A Professional Groomer may need to look at their bottom line and make harder choices.  Do I need to let go of one of my employees and take on those tasks to increase my income?  What can I do to change my bottom line?  Professional Groomers live their dream as their career; sometimes that means making uncomfortable, calculated sacrifices to achieve what needs to be done.
 
A GROOMER IS DECIDING IF THEY ARE A HOBBY GROOMER OR A PROFESSIONAL GROOMER, THEY ARE EMBRACING WHO THEY ARE AND WHERE THEY ARE IN LIFE.
A Hobby groomer should tell their clients, “I groom as a hobby; I’m amazing at what I do but I do not do this for the money.  I may charge you less than a professional salon but I am providing you with the same or better care.”  Embrace your hobby and enjoy it, you don’t have to compete with a business; you do not have to make a living!  
 
Professional groomers embrace that you need to make a living, there is nothing wrong with pricing appropriately for your skill, experience and desired lifestyle.  Stop feeling guilty for providing for your family.  I have yet to hear a professional plumber or mechanic tell me he was sorry for what he charged. 
 

YOU ARE IN CONTROL OF YOUR FUTURE, DECIDE WHICH PATH YOU ARE ON AND ENJOY THE JOURNEY!