Episode 03: Why a Grooming VA Is an Asset to Your Business

Written By Jess

Welcome back to Beyond the Table — the podcast for pet professionals ready to explore what’s possible after the grooming table. Hosted by River Lee (Step Away From the Table, Savvy Groomer) and Jess Frangos (Groomer Support Services), this episode shifts focus to grooming business owners (or as we call them, supervisors). We’re diving deep into the value of hiring a grooming virtual assistant (VA) and how it can transform your operations, sanity, and client experience.

Topics Covered

1. Groomer VAs Speak the Language

  • They understand grooming-specific needs, breed nuances, and service expectations

  • VAs can communicate with clients and groomers clearly and effectively

  • They interpret shorthand like “5 all over,” clean feet, poodle face, and more

2. The Value of Industry Experience

  • Why hiring a VA who has groomed makes onboarding easier and faster

  • Real-world example: the “Little Dutch Boy” haircut mystery

  • VAs with grooming backgrounds avoid communication gaps that cost time and client satisfaction

3. VA vs. Virtual Receptionist vs. In-House Staff

  • The key differences in cost, communication, and efficiency

  • VAs work project-based or hourly, so you only pay for what you need

  • In-house receptionists may lack grooming knowledge and cost more long-term

4. Systems, Scheduling & Client Communication

  • Groomer VAs can create intake forms, streamline workflows, and manage software

  • They flag red flags (aggressive dogs, unrealistic expectations) before they cause problems

  • They can communicate grooming policies like no-shave double coats clearly to clients

5. Cultural Competency and Customer Support

  • Why overseas VAs (e.g., in the Philippines) can pose communication challenges

  • How cultural misunderstandings (like calling clippers “nail clippers”) impact your brand

  • When it’s worth investing in someone who “gets it” from day one

6. Emotional Intelligence and Compassion

  • Groomers-turned-VAs understand how deeply we care about animals

  • Their empathy and shared values make them ideal client-facing representatives

7. Protecting Your Time & Energy

  • VAs reduce mental load and prevent burnout by taking draining tasks off your plate

  • Groomer VAs require less hand-holding — they just get it

  • They’re your partner, not just a task-doer

Key Takeaways

  • Groomer VAs are fluent in grooming language and culture, leading to smoother communication and fewer mistakes

  • Hiring a VA who knows the industry saves you time, energy, and long-term cost

  • Virtual assistants allow you to offload systems setup, communication, and scheduling

  • Protect your energy by working with someone who understands the emotional labor of grooming

  • You don’t need to do it all alone — let a grooming VA support your business behind the scenes

Learn More

Jess Frangos: Groomer Support Services

River Lee: Step Away From the Table & Savvy Groomer

Whether you’re scaling your grooming salon, starting a mobile unit, or just trying to reclaim your time, this episode breaks down why a grooming VA is one of the best investments you can make.

Follow the show for more episodes, share with a fellow groomer, or leave a review to support the community!

Jess https://jessfrangos.com
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