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As a hairdresser, you\u2019re spending the majority of your time interacting with clients – and with that comes a lot of small talk!<\/i><\/p>\n
Hairdressers are expected to be able to initiate and hold a conversation. If not out of polite necessity, for the sake of helping put clients at ease! Since you\u2019re working within close proximity and often spending a lot of time on a client\u2019s hair, opportunities for conversation helps to make the time go a little bit faster and lessens the risk of miscommunication and hair mishaps.<\/p>\n
When it comes to conversing with clients, salon etiquette is crucial. As a hairdresser, it\u2019s important to create a relationship with clients but it\u2019s just as important to not cross any personal boundaries and to help make your clients time more enjoyable.<\/p>\n
Conversation starters<\/strong><\/p>\n The easiest way to start a conversation with clients is to ask the right questions.<\/p>\n Whether it\u2019s a new client or returning client, you should start your conversation by discussing their hair. This will eliminate any misunderstandings or disappointment and will help you to know exactly what your client is expecting from you. Try the following:<\/p>\n After the initial consultation, you can then ease into a comfortable conversation about their day and personal life regarding work, family and hobbies. When inspiring conversation, it\u2019s best to ask questions that require more than a one-word answer.<\/p>\n Open-ended questions<\/a> will allow clients to open up and inspire further conversation. For example:<\/p>\n Topics to avoid<\/strong><\/p>\n While some clients will be happy to discuss just about anything with you, it is always best to avoid any topic that is too personal or invasive. It also pays to avoid topics that are too political, religious or that may cause conflict.<\/p>\n On the other hand, if it\u2019s a client you have been seeing for years and have built a good rapport with, you might be safe breaching these topics – but only if and when your client brings them up with you.<\/p>\n Remember, the haircut is about them, not you. To avoid negative conversation<\/a>, always keep your replies brief and do your best to turn the conversation back to neutral ground.<\/p>\n How to tell if your client doesn\u2019t want to talk<\/strong><\/p>\n While some clients will be happy to talk the entire appointment, others may want to use their salon time to relax and not engage in chit-chat.<\/p>\n Clients who may be introverted or simply want a break from socialising will appreciate not being bombarded with questions. As a hairdresser, it\u2019s important to recognise these clients and to be patient with communication<\/a>.<\/p>\n If you notice they quickly try to shut the conversation down or are happily immersed in a book or their phone, you can take this as a queue to turn the talking down a notch. Maintain openness by smiling and making eye contact, and always be friendly and receptive so that your client feels comfortable and knows it\u2019s okay to take some me-time.<\/p>\n The art of listening<\/strong><\/p>\n In your bid to keep the conversation going, don\u2019t neglect to listen! It\u2019s important to hear exactly what the client is saying and to avoid interrupting or taking over. Active listening means really listening <\/i>to what your client is saying and taking their concerns or goals on board – especially when it comes to their hair.<\/p>\n You want to create a positive experience for your client so that they will return. For that reason, try to understand what they are wanting from you and their experience. It might be tempting to take full creative license over their hair, but if they are adamant in not wanting a certain style or colour, then listen to them and respect their wishes.<\/p>\n\n
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