An appointment with our good hairdresser, apart from hair care, also provides conversation. We have said and you know from your own experience that a hairdresser is above all a psychologist and a good friend. But what is the limit of the friendship you should have with a client? What you are allowed to say and what you are not allowed to say ;
Communicating with people, and specifically with customers, can be very easy if you know the right points to refer to.. but also very difficult, if you get into subjects where disagreements and thus dislikes may arise.
It is important for your client to feel comfortable and satisfied, not only from the specialized work you provide, but also because they feel comfortable with your discretion and confidentiality.
No matter how friendly your relationship with a client, your place in the salon must be intact.
Initially you do not need to give analysis upon analysis and give your opinions and thoughts, but it is important to listen and comment on the basics.
Don’t ask about potentially sensitive topics, such as religion, politics, salary, marital status or anything that might cause stress, irritation and arguments.
You can start a relaxed conversation about his or her background, work, favourite music, movies… if he goes to the cinema, theatre, if he has any hobbies and generally leave it up to him to guide you on what he wants you to say. Don’t let yourself go and don’t fall into traps that can destroy your relationship.
As far as gossip is concerned, for better or worse, many people love it. Do not engage in conversation and make comments that involve neighbors, mutual acquaintances, not even the grocer or someone you both happen to know. Don’t even allow such dialogues, because you don’t know how they can be misinterpreted and in the end you can be misunderstood.
In your area, you are responsible for what is said and done… you are responsible. So make sure you set boundaries where necessary, so that your customers know they can trust you. It is important that your conversation is pleasant and not full of tension.
Do not forget
Communicate with people by name and by surname. How differently familiar would you see someone addressing you by name, as opposed to just speaking to you as any customer, say number 7 walking into your salon? Say “hello Mr. Sophia” instead of just “hello”.
Show interest in your customer by asking him/her to possibly better explain an issue, problem, question he/she may have. If you don’t show that you want to listen to him, you will make him feel uncomfortable.
Always be polite. Learn to say “thank you”, “you’re welcome”.
In a potential problem, don’t stick your tail out and don’t be reactive and rude. Make sure you put yourself in your client ‘s shoes and talk to them as you would like to be talked to “You’re right. I understand you,” is an excellent approach to put him at ease and let him know you are with him.
