Vanessa McDonald
Marketing Strategist | Skin Journey & Retention Expert | Industry Educator
The Retention Opportunity: How to Turn First-Time Clients into Loyal Skin Clients
Vanessa McDonald Marketing Strategist | Skin Journey & Retention Expert | Industry Educator In the aesthetics industry, most clinics focus heavily on acquiring new clients—but far fewer have a structured, measurable strategy for keeping them.
In this keynote, Vanessa McDonald will spotlight one of the biggest (and most overlooked) revenue gaps in clinic businesses today: first-time client retention. She’ll unpack why the average return rate for new clients—based on data from over 2,000 clinics Vanessa has worked with—sits at just 27% or less, and how this “silent leak” can cost clinics hundreds of thousands in lost revenue every year.
Vanessa will introduce a proven, front-desk-friendly retention system that helps boost rebooking rates, initiates skin journeys, and improves long-term profitability. From powerful conversations at the first visit to simple follow-up processes that keep clients engaged—this session will equip you with the practical tools to plug the leaks and keep more of the clients you’ve worked so hard to attract.
You’ll learn:
- Why second-visit retention is your most important (and neglected) growth KPI
- How to equip your front desk and therapists with the confidence and language to drive rebookings.
- How to use the first appointment to guide clients into tailored skin programs that naturally increase spend and loyalty.
Whether you’re a solo therapist or leading a multi-room clinic, this session will leave you with a clear roadmap to retain more clients, build stronger relationships, and grow your revenue without adding more marketing pressure.
Vanessa will be speaking at the Melbourne Aesthetic Business Masters
📍Melbourne | May 16, 2025
🎟️ Tickets are limited – secure your seat to see Vanessa McDonald live on stage.
