Speak Up. Nobody wants to be "that client," but newsflash: Hairstylists would rather you say something than nothing. "If you are uncomfortable at any point, you should definitely communicate as soon as possible," says Brook. "A good hairdresser will listen and make you feel taken care of."
“Some people just don't want conversation. It's really their time to zen out.” Boughton explains that while some clients request silence ahead of their appointment, it's also up to the hairdresser to display emotional intelligence when a client is in the chair.
Speak Up During Your Haircut
During your haircut feel free to speak directly to your hair stylist. If you feel uncomfortable with how much hair they're cutting, just chat with them. If you're concerned with their work, talk to them. Speak up when you have a legitimate concern.
Communication is key when you're getting your hair cut and most of us have no idea what to say. Try these tips to make sure you leave happy—and looking like the inspo photo you brought with you.
Stylists very quickly decide whether it's appropriate to talk. I would like to see the salon as one of the last bastions of fun chatter. “If you want a quiet time while you have your hair done, tell your stylist. Something like, “I've had a busy day and am looking for some quiet time to relax.
We'd prefer you don't. Everyone has limits. What I might think looks cool or fun on you, may not be your idea of fun. Whenever a client tells me I can do whatever I tell them I'm going to shave half their head and color the rest green.
Don't use profanity nor vent about a coworker in front of clients. Don't talk about politics, religion or sex as these are highly personal and sensitive topics. Don't talk too loudly so others in the salon can hear. Don't use industry jargon, but rather converse with clients in a way they will understand.
Know what you want
Your barber will oblige this request if they have to, but they'd rather not. Most of the time people say “do what you want”, what they actually mean is “read my mind and if you don't get it right I'm never coming back here again”.
Don't be afraid to ask for what each treatment or step costs so you can decide what to do ahead with or what you don't want done. "I don't think that any hairdresser is annoyed or offended or anything about a client asking for a quote," salon owner Sandy Chong says. "I think that is how it always should be."
“Tell your colorist in a calm way that you are unhappy with how the look turned out, and he or she will be understanding,” Hazan says. Try to explain exactly what you don't like about the color.
If you are uncomfortable with small talk or have anxiety about the casual conversation that accompanies a haircut, there's no need to worry; you are not alone! In fact, many clients prefer some quiet time while getting their hair styled, which is why many salons are beginning to offer silent haircuts!
Arriving With Dirty Hair
While second-day, or even third-day, hair can be totally acceptable, it's best to arrive without a ton of built-up hairspray. It also goes without saying, but don't head to the salon straight from the gym. Sweaty strands don't make for an overly enthusiastic stylist, and rightfully so!
Talking on the Phone
Speaking on the phone is not only inconsiderate to the salon employees, but also to the other clients receiving services. There are always exceptions for emergencies and very quick exchanges, but try to avoid making calls unless it's important.
Tell him how much you want taken off and where
“Short and long are all relative from barber to barber,” he says. So say things like “an inch off the top” or “a quarter inch off the side.” If you don't know exactly how much you want taken off, let your barber know you don't know.
Be Super Specific about Hair Length
This leaves way too much room for interpretation. Even talking about inches can make things go awry. Instead, use your hands to show exactly where you want your hair to fall. This will get you on the same page and lead to a more satisfying haircut.
“I was in a mood when I last saw you, and I'm here to apologize for my behaviour. You've done a great job on my hair, and I'm lucky to have such a hairdresser. I hope you can accept my apology.”
Don't talk too much
Of course, you can talk about yourself, just don't overdo it and try to keep the focus on them. If you sense that your client isn't in a chatty mood and would rather relax quietly, respect that and don't try to force a conversation.
Bring Visuals
If there's a certain style or color you're wanting, bring pictures! Showing your stylist exactly what you desire is the best way to achieve it. Bring multiple photos to use as examples and chat with your hairdresser first thing about what your hair goals are.
If you have a good relationship with your salon, but aren't 100 percent happy with the outcome, just calmly state your dissatisfaction and ask to revisit your stylist. “The original stylist is the best person to correct their own work until they get it just right,” Cairns said.