A photo of Lonnie McGowen, a Franchisee of IMAGE Studios, smiling and seated against a black background. Lonnie is a Black man wearing a navy blue suit and red tie.
From centering relationships in his leadership style to empowering fellow franchisees, Lonnie McGowen utilizes several unique business strategies as a Franchisee of IMAGE Studios. — Photo Courtesy of Lonnie McGowen

If you could create your own fantasy board of directors, who would be on it? CO— connects you with thought leaders from across the business spectrum and asks them to help solve your biggest business challenges. In this edition, we ask an accomplished entrepreneur and business leader to share his unique business strategies.

In this edition of “Ask the Board,” we feature Lonnie McGowen, a Franchisee of IMAGE Studios, an exclusive studio suite concept that provides modern, high-end spaces to entrepreneurs, in Richardson, Texas. Lonnie shares the out-of-the-box business strategies that allowed him to succeed and can help you do the same.

I began my career at Sherwin-Williams in an entry-level role, and with dedication, vision, and leadership, I rose through nine or 10 promotions and eventually became the company’s first African American male Vice President.

After decades of corporate success, my wife and I decided to fulfill our shared dream of owning a business. The beauty industry’s dynamic growth and IMAGE Studios’ innovative, forward-thinking approach made it the perfect fit for our entrepreneurial goals.

While my corporate background emphasized structured processes and traditional strategies, my experience with IMAGE Studios has transformed my mindset, inspiring me to embrace out-of-the-box thinking and develop innovative strategies that distinguish my business from the competition. Here’s what I did:

Innovative recruiting

Leveraging organic recruiting strategies, I utilize social media to connect with beauty professionals. I recognize that many in the industry use these platforms to promote themselves and their individual businesses, making it the perfect medium to start conversations with potential candidates.

Community impact and philanthropy

I actively support local nonprofits like Hope’s Door by providing complimentary beauty services to women and helping to rebuild their confidence in preparation for milestones such as job interviews or the first day of school.

Entrepreneurship empowerment

We’re all in this together. I view my role as more than just a business owner. I’m a mentor and partner to beauty professionals, empowering them to achieve their personal and professional goals while growing their individual businesses.

...[M]y experience with IMAGE Studios has transformed my mindset, inspiring me to embrace out-of-the-box thinking and develop innovative strategies that distinguish my business from the competition.

Lonnie McGowen, Franchisee of IMAGE Studios

Relationship-centered leadership

I firmly believe that strong relationships are the foundation of success. I stay deeply connected with beauty professionals by offering personalized tours tailored to their unique needs, maintaining open communication, and regularly checking in to ensure their goals align with the studio’s vision. My approachable and hands-on leadership style fosters trust and collaboration, creating a supportive environment where professionals thrive.

Collaboration with other franchisees

I enjoy participating in the validation calls of franchisee prospects and/or candidates to help recruit new owners into the fold. I also spend a lot of time visiting with franchisees regarding on-site tours, guidance, and assistance with business processes. This is such a fun engagement opportunity for me as well.

Networking events

My wife and I host networking events that foster the salon culture and collaboration between our beauty pros. A few examples that have worked are listed below:

  • Happy Hour Networking Event during early months of operation.
  • Holiday Party (2023) that included a wine-tasting event and four-course pairing dinner. We also set up a photography section for professional headshots for all of our pros.
  • Holiday Party (2024) that included a Pre-Party Shop and Sip event. We followed that up with an exclusive dining experience. Both aided in fostering an open culture of dialogue and familiarity with all our pros,
    new and current.

CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, here.

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