” Identify and learn from your mistakes and build on your successes.”

Here’s a list of common hairdresser mistakes that we have probably all made at one time or another while working in a salon.  By avoiding these simple mistakes, you can improve your earning potential and grow your career. As professionals we must all do our part in raising the image of our profession to a higher level . The following simple guidelines will help us in our efforts at client retention.

Irregular Work Schedule — Far too many hairdressers cross off time on their appointment books, or show an inconsistent work schedule that limits your availability for customers. Set your schedule and stay in the salon. You never know when a customer will call for an appointment or just drop in.

 

Not Inviting Customer and Owner Feedback — Invite customer feedback as well as feedback from your boss.  If you receive criticism, consider it an invitation to perfecting your skills and  improve customer service. Let your boss and your clients know you value their input; they will appreciate your honesty and desire to exceed owner and client expectations.  Give them permission to offer constructive criticism without taking this criticism personally. I have yet meet a salon owner that wants to see their staff fail.

 

Unprofessional Appearance –. If you want to be respected and compensated like a professional, look and act like a professional. Hairdressers are in the business of improving appearances. Start with your own.

 

Involving Customers in Your Personal Problems —- At times there can be a fine line between being friendly and interactive with your clients, and pulling them in to your own personal drama.Customers have enough problems of their own, they don’t need to be part of yours.

 

Not Recognizing the Power of Customer Service —– Customer service is often measured not by meeting your clients’ expectations, but by exceeding them. Go the extra mile with customer service. The rewards of doing so can be beyond even your highest expectations.

 

Frequent Salon Changes –If at all possible, seek to find a solution to any work-related  differences with your boss in private before considering leaving your current job.  If you still believe a job change is in your best interest, do so in an ethical manner. Never burn the bridges behind you,  you may need references (or a chance to return at a future date).

 

Poor Work Habits — We are creatures of habit. Absenteeism and tardiness is a big problem in our profession. Work hard to value the time of your customers as well as your salon’s reputation. Respecting your client’s valuable time creates a sense of trust and projects professionalism for your clients and your salon.

 

Leaving Clients for Personal Calls — or talking on your cell phones when working on your client. Every client deserves your FULL attention.  Unless it’s an emergency, use your break to chat with friends, or to return phone calls.

 

Poor Customer Handling Procedures — Always greet your customer with a sincere and caring attitude. Develop powerful people and communication skills. You never get a second chance to form a positive first impression.

 

In today’s tough economy we can ill afford to making these mistakes in our salons, our clients have many choices and price options on where they will spend their money. Please read my book a Hairdressers Guide to Success-Personally,Professionally,Financially. Click here