April 3, 2017
5 Scenarios Every Stylist Should Know How to Handle
Cosmetology is an incredibly rewarding career. Every time you turn the chair and see that smile light up your station, you know why you’ve decided to pursue this as your lifelong passion. Once in awhile, there are a few hard conversations that you’ll need to have, either with another stylist or a client. Here are 5 scenarios you should be prepared for.
1. “Do You Think This Will Look Good On Me?”
You are the expert. Remember that. Clients may bring in a photo of the hair they’re looking to get, and they may ask your opinion. Be honest. You have been trained to recognize how colors and cuts will look on certain faces and complexions. Don’t be afraid to urge them in a different direction. There is a tactful way to go about suggesting a different style or color, but this is your work. Your clients are a walking portfolio for you, and you don’t want them unhappy or not looking their very best.
2. Chatty Cathy Has a Cellphone
Emergencies happen. That’s just a fact of life. If your client has to take a quick phone call, ask them if they need a minute. If you are attempting to cut, color, or style their hair while they are on a phone, your service turns into a circus act. Don’t be afraid to let them know that you need a break. After all you, your time is precious to you.
3. “Well, I Just Don’t Know.”
If you’re facing a client who is indecisive, feel free to help them make a decision. Use your training to fuel your suggestions. Look at their face shape, skin tone, eye color, and their style. Match their features to photos on IG or Pinterest and look over them together. Sometimes clients don’t know what they don’t know, and they’re just looking for someone to help them.
4. Artistic Differences
You may not have created what your client had it mind, and it’s up to you to make it right. You don’t have to do another service for free, but attempt to make it OK with them. Resolving the problem as soon as possible will work in your favor. Before you make any changes, ask them to pull up a photo of what they were looking for. Ask more questions and get more details.
5. “Can I Use Your Curling Wand, Straightener, etc?”
Sharing is caring, but it’s OK not want to share your tools. If you rent out your booth, you also bring in your own stuff including hot tools, combs, clips, and bowls. If you feel comfortable letting a fellow stylist use your stuff, go for it, but don’t be afraid to turn someone down if you don’t feel good about it.
What are a few scenarios you have faced in your career, and how did you handle them? Make sure to share with us on Facebook! If you’re interested in pursuing a rewarding career in cosmetology, check out our program!