Communication is the key!!! Developing a good relationship with a stylist is important. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or bring up concerns. He/She is the professional, but you are the paying client. Remember the stylist can’t serve all your needs and wants if he/she isn’t aware of them.
Scheduling a consultation before you book an appointment is ideal. Take this time to discuss your hair’s health and your goals for you hair. You can also take this time to discuss prices for services, and products used. Remember to always be honest about what has been done to your hair previous to your first visit. The more information you give the stylist the better they can serve you.
Ask questions!!! “how many years in the industry?” or “how long can I expect to be in the shop?”
Feel free to ask if they have cancellation policies, what is their specialty, and how they implement price changes.
Make sure you are comfortable with the location of the salon. You may think that you will be willing to drive a long distance for a good stylist, but sooner or later it may become bothersome.
Just like you would want the stylist to respect your time and schedule, please do the same for the stylist. Something a small as fifteen minutes can set your stylist back severely. A 24 hour notice of a cancellation is ideal, this gives the stylist time to fill the spot.
Decide what you are and are not willing to accept. There is no perfect stylist, but know what qualities you MUST have and what qualities you can compromise on.
When getting a cut for the first time with a stylist, bring a photo. Your stylists hair lingo and yours may differ, and a picture bridges that gap. Also, ask if the style is conducive to your life style, and face shape. Find out how high the maintenance of the cut is.
Unless you are completely dissatisfied with you hair, give the stylist a second chance. Sometimes it may take a little time to become acquainted with your hair.
If you are not happy with your stylist and decide to leave, ask the stylist if he/she would like to know why. Don’t be afraid to tell him or her what the problem is. A good stylist will appreciate your honesty, and embraces constructive criticism, and may be willing to make changes.
Remember, you have to develop a good professional relationship with your stylist, he or she will be taking care of your crowing glory- finding the hairstylist with the right skills and persona is imperative to a great salon experience!
