Hairdressers invest time, energy, and creativity to ensure their clients look and feel their best. While excellent service tops their priority list, certain client habits can make their job more challenging. Awareness about these can make the experience pleasant for both the hairdresser and the client. Even minor disruptions can have a significant impact in a profession that requires precision, concentration, and a keen eye for detail.
Here are some habits that hairdressers often dislike, along with reasons why they can be problematic and tips on how to avoid them.
Arriving Late
Punctuality is crucial in the hairdressing world. When even one client is late, it disrupts the entire schedule, leading to delays for subsequent appointments. Hairdressers rely on a tight schedule to manage their day efficiently. Late arrivals not only waste their time but also compromise the quality of service they can provide in a rush. Effectively planning your day can avoid these while respecting your hairdresser’s time and ensuring you receive the best possible service.
Being Unprepared
Coming to an appointment unprepared can be frustrating for hairdressers. For example, a client may not have a clear idea of the desired hairstyle or not bring necessary items, like hair extensions or accessories. A prepared client helps streamline the process, ensuring that the hairdresser can focus on creating the best look possible. To prepare, consider researching styles beforehand and bringing photos for reference. This allows for clear communication and helps the hairdresser understand your vision.
Talking on the Phone
Constantly being on the phone during an appointment is not only distracting but also disrespectful. It makes it difficult for hairdressers to communicate and perform their tasks effectively. Clients who engage in phone conversations can also unknowingly move their heads, making it harder for the hairdresser to do their job. To ensure a smooth appointment, try to limit phone use and focus on the interaction with your hairdresser. This creates a more relaxed environment and allows for better results.
Bringing Extra Guests
Hair salons are often busy places, and extra guests can add to the chaos. Bringing friends or family members to an appointment can distract the client and the hairdresser. It can also make the salon more crowded and noisy, disrupting the working environment. If you must bring someone, inform your hairdresser in advance and ensure they understand the need to be unobtrusive. This consideration helps maintain a professional and focused atmosphere in the salon.
Unclear or Unrealistic Expectations
Clients who come into a salon with vague or unrealistic expectations can create challenges for hairdressers. Without a clear idea of what you want, it becomes difficult for the stylist to deliver a satisfying result. Additionally, expecting a drastic transformation that may not be feasible due to your hair type or condition can set you up for disappointment. It’s crucial to have open communication with your hairdresser—bring reference photos, discuss your hair’s limitations, and be realistic about the outcome. This helps ensure that both you and your hairdresser are aligned, leading to a more successful and stress-free appointment.
Changing Service Requests Without Notice
Booking an appointment for a specific service and then requesting something entirely different upon arrival can be highly disruptive for a hairdresser. Hairdressers schedule their day based on the services booked, so a sudden change can throw off their entire schedule and may require additional time, products, or skills that weren’t planned for. This can result in rushed work or the need to reschedule. To avoid this, be clear about your service needs when booking and inform the salon of any changes beforehand. This allows your hairdresser to prepare appropriately and ensures a smoother experience for everyone involved.
Moving or Chatting Too Much
Staying still is essential for hairdressers to work precisely. Clients who fidget or move their heads too much make it difficult for hairdressers to cut or style hair accurately. This can lead to mistakes and longer appointment times, which can be frustrating for both the client and the hairdresser. Chatting non-stop about your personal issues could be another trigger that potentially irritates your hairdresser. Try to relax and minimize movement during your appointment. This cooperation ensures the hairdresser can work efficiently and deliver the best possible results.
Arriving with Dirty Hair
While some salons prefer to wash clients’ hair, arriving with excessively dirty or tangled hair can be problematic. Cleaning and detangling take extra time, cutting into the time allocated for styling or cutting. Clean hair ensures that the hairdresser can start working on the style immediately. Before your appointment, ensure your hair is reasonably clean and manageable. This preparation allows the hairdresser to focus on delivering high-quality results without unnecessary delays.
Haggling Prices
Negotiating prices at a salon can be uncomfortable for hairdressers. Prices are set based on the expertise, products, and time required for the service. Attempting to haggle can be disrespectful to the professional’s skills and the value of their work. To avoid this, understand the pricing structure before booking and budget accordingly. Recognizing the value of the hairdresser’s services fosters a respectful and positive client-provider relationship.
Ignoring Personal Hygiene
Personal hygiene is important in a profession that involves close contact, such as hairdressing. Clients with strong body odors or poor hygiene can make the experience unpleasant for the hairdresser. Maintaining good personal hygiene shows respect for the hairdresser and contributes to a more comfortable environment. Ensure you are clean and presentable for your appointment. This consideration creates a more pleasant and professional atmosphere for both you and the hairdresser.
Canceling Last Minute
Last-minute cancellations are a major inconvenience for hairdressers. They result in lost income and wasted time slots that could have been filled by other clients. Giving sufficient notice allows hairdressers to adjust their schedules and possibly accommodate other clients. If you need to cancel, provide as much notice as possible. This courtesy helps maintain a good relationship with your hairdresser and ensures they can manage their schedule effectively.
