Salon: Client Consultations

Consultations are a key part of a hair appointment for the stylist and the client. Consultations not only give the stylist a vision of what the client wants, but it also gives clients the comfort that the stylist knows what they are doing. In order to maintain a successful stylist and client relationship, it is essential that a clear consult is done each and every time a service is provided.

There is no such thing as a fool proof consultation for any stylist. As a client you want to know that the idea you have for your hair is the same idea the stylist has. It is important that both the client and the stylist ask questions. An efficient consultation has three main questions a stylist should ask a client.

The first question to ask is, what is your daily routine when styling your hair? The answer to this question gives the parameters as to what a stylist can do. If a person is a wash and wear client then that closes the doors for certain cuts.  On the other hand if a client is willing to take some extra time with their hair daily, then that opens up more options.  A stylist should be able to create a style the client not only loves, but can take care of themselves at home and be very satisfied.

The second question to ask is, what products do you use at home?  Finding out what kind of tools and products people use on a daily basis is a helpful component for stylists to understand what they are working with. This also creates a potential retail sale for the stylist as well as important information of why or why not clients are happy with their hair. A lot of times clients are not educated properly on what to use in their hair. Part of the salon experience is going home with products that work in favor of the client and their new style. I have found, that my clients that use the same products that I  use in the salon on their hair at home, are much happier. Clients colors last longer, their hair is healthier, and most importantly they are able to style their hair similarly to the way I style them in the salon. 

The third questions is how often is a client willing to maintain their style? Obviously the more consistent clients stay with their appointments the more manageable their hair will be for them. It is a necessity that there is a plan developed between stylist and client. Without a plan the stylist becomes dispensable because if this particular stylist doesn't create a plan another one will. Creating a loyal clientele begins with a plan and a well executed one.

Consultations create a vision between stylist and client. Making sure both of your visions are aligned will create a positive salon experience. Happy and satisfied clients contribute to the success of a business.