How to Negotiate a Pet Groomer Commission Split with Salon Owners

By Team GroomLink Published on October 16

How to Negotiate a Pet Groomer Commission Split with Salon Owners

Whether you’re running a pet grooming business or employed by a grooming salon you will have to navigate the balance of compensation, workload, and client satisfaction. One key area where many groomers face challenges is in negotiating their commission split with salon owners. A fair and transparent commission structure can lead to mutual success, motivating groomers while ensuring the salon remains profitable.

If you’re a pet groomer considering a new position or looking to renegotiate your existing contract, here are some tips to help you navigate the process and get the compensation you deserve.

1. Understand the Industry Standard Commission Rates

Before entering any negotiation, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what’s typical in the pet grooming industry. Commission splits for pet groomers typically fall between 35% and 60%, with the salon owner taking the remainder. However, these percentages can vary significantly depending on location, the salon’s reputation, and the volume of clients they bring in.

Research what other salons in your area offer to get a ballpark figure. Networking with other groomers or checking local job boards can provide insight into what’s reasonable and competitive for your area.

2. Consider the Salon’s Expenses and Reputation

Salon owners have their own financial considerations. Understanding their perspective can help you approach the negotiation in a more strategic way. Keep in mind that the salon typically covers many overhead costs, such as rent, utilities, marketing, supplies, and staff. If the salon is well-established and has a steady flow of clients, they may be in a position to offer you a higher commission split. However, if it’s a new or struggling business, the salon might not be able to provide the same lucrative terms.

By asking questions about the salon’s expenses, reputation, and client retention, you can better understand their financial position. This knowledge can give you leverage to negotiate a higher split or additional benefits, such as better tips or bonuses.

3. Highlight Your Experience and Skillset

When negotiating, be prepared to highlight your experience, skills, and work ethic. If you have years of experience, certifications, or a loyal client base, make sure to emphasize these points. A highly skilled groomer can increase a salon’s reputation and customer loyalty, which in turn can bring in more business. If you have a specialized skill (e.g., dealing with difficult dogs, breed-specific cuts, or pet health grooming), be sure to bring this up as it can justify a higher commission rate.

Additionally, if you have any reviews, testimonials, or client referrals, these can be helpful to present during your negotiation. If the salon owner knows that you can bring in new clients or enhance the reputation of the salon, they may be more inclined to offer a better commission split.

4. Factor in Client Referrals and Retention

Salons often set commission rates based on a variety of factors, including how many clients a groomer brings in. If you have an established clientele that follows you from location to location, it’s worth discussing how those client referrals should factor into your pay. You might propose a higher commission rate for clients who book specifically for you, or request a bonus structure for retaining long-term clients.

If you’re starting fresh in a new salon, ask the salon owner if they are willing to help you build a client base through their marketing efforts. On the other hand, if you’re responsible for your own marketing, social media presence, or client outreach, you may be able to leverage this for a higher commission split.

5. Discuss Benefits and Perks Beyond the Split

Negotiating isn’t just about the base commission rate. It’s important to think about other benefits that could improve your overall compensation package. Some of the perks to consider include:

  • Bonuses: Ask if the salon offers performance-based bonuses, such as for exceeding sales goals or maintaining high customer satisfaction.
  • Tips: Discuss how tips are handled. Some salons take a portion of tips, while others allow groomers to keep the entire tip. If the salon takes a cut of tips, negotiate how that will work in your favor.
  • Schedule Flexibility: If work-life balance is important to you, consider negotiating for more flexible hours or the ability to set your own schedule.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO): If you’re employed by the salon, ask about any potential for PTO or sick days. This might be a negotiating point if the salon has an employee compensation package.
  • Continuing Education: If the salon offers to pay for grooming workshops or certification courses, this can be a great perk for your professional development.

6. Understand the Structure of the Split

Commission splits can take several forms, so it’s important to clarify exactly what you’ll be paid for and how the split is calculated. Some key points to address include:

  • Percentage of Service Fees: Are you being paid a commission based on the total service price (e.g., bathing, cutting, and styling) or just a specific portion of the service (e.g., the grooming fee minus supplies)?
  • Add-on Services: If clients request additional services (nail trimming, teeth brushing, etc.), will you receive a higher percentage of these add-ons? Ensure that add-on services are factored into the negotiation.
  • Product Sales: If the salon sells pet products (shampoos, brushes, etc.), will you receive a commission on these sales? This can be an important part of your income, especially if you’re a skilled salesperson.

Make sure the terms are laid out clearly and that you both understand how the payment structure works. Putting everything in writing will protect both parties and minimize any potential confusion down the line.

7. Know When to Walk Away

Not every negotiation will go in your favor, and that’s okay. If the commission split or overall compensation isn’t in line with what you’re looking for, or if you feel like the terms aren’t fair, don’t be afraid to walk away. There are plenty of grooming salons out there, and you deserve a compensation package that reflects your skills and value to the business.

If you’re just starting your career, you might need to take a slightly lower split to gain experience and build your client base. But as your skills and reputation grow, don’t hesitate to renegotiate for a better deal.

Conclusion

Negotiating your commission split with a salon owner can be a delicate but rewarding process. By doing your research, understanding both your value and the salon’s needs, and considering the full compensation package, you can arrive at a fair agreement that works for both you and the business. Don’t forget to communicate openly and professionally, and always make sure the terms are clear in writing.

Ultimately, a fair commission split is key to fostering a positive working relationship, which will help ensure your success as a pet groomer and contribute to the salon’s growth.