Salon Talk

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For the first time in over 14yrs. of being in the business I had to tell a client that I would no longer service them. This person has been a client for over 12yrs, literally from childhood, and now is a college student. She has a split personality when it comes to her hair, always wanting something drastic, but really wants to keep it the same. Her mother, who pays for the service, realizes this (thank God), and refuses to give in to momentary hair decissions, knowing that the second it was done she would cry to have it restored to normal. That really puts me in the middle, trying to keep both sides happy- attempting to please the client but still get paid by her mother. I am sure you can all sypathise. Anyway, tonights fiasco started with her wanting to go back to her natural color. ( She is Mexican, so her hair is almost black, presently it has been hilighted to a medium blonde, about 85%). Mom and I both laughed at this because that statement was followed by- "I still want it to look blonde when I pull it back".

After a long consult looking at swatches and discussing technique, we all agreed to lowlights in a medium /dark brown. ( They came out fabulous, by the way.) When I was done with the milimeter trim and blow dry, she told me that her hair looked exactly the same as it did before. Her mother and I both stared at her in disbelief.

This same girl about 1yr1/2 ago decided to have her mid back lenght hair cut to her chin, of course mom said no way but agreed on 2in's. When the 2in's were removed(dry ,so no surprises would pop up) the girl cried histarically beacause it was too short.

I have had enough. I told the salon owner that this behavior was unacceptable, that I refused to feel, or be treated like I have failed in some way because this young lady has issues. So I called the mother, explained that we would all be happier if her daughter went elsewhere from now on. The mom was embarrassed and apologetic. I talked to the girl who was non-plussed, surprise surprise.

All in all, we as hairdressers do not get paid enough to be psyciatrist, mind reader, and stylist, we all deserve to be treated with respect. Even though the situation makes me angry, it feels really good to be less one huge headache! Thanx for the vent!

I totaly agree with you! I do not agree with the assumption that "the customer is always right." We are not mind readers or psychologists, and can't possibly please everyone all the time. I have also openly refused several clients who I just felt I couldn't help, and just weren't worth the effort. Time is money, is a saying I live by. Why waste your time on someone who is never grateful, and probably won't be one of your fathful regulars who, love you for everything you do, and compensate your time with a generous tip, especially those at christmas? I say put your efforts into where your bread is buttered. After all, we all have to make a living right? We are human beings just like everyone else who aren't here to be abused, and deserve respect.

Honey I live by - "You will not take me out of my comfort zone" - I have been doing hair for over 14 years, but I grew up and just started doing hair professionally the past 3 years and have fired over 4-5 people. Some people you just can't please because they have a self-esteem issue and nothing is ever right. Before I will go through the drama they have to go. It's not that hard, nine times out of ten you knew two weeks ago you were going to be back here so why don't you know what you want. Don't feel bad about letting her go either - I know the day you knew she was coming you probably had a headache all day. I know you feel all that pressure released. My aunt own the salon I work in and its nice and small with just our two chairs in it, but most of the time when I fire a client they go to her and when she fires hers they will come to me - its so funny sometimes.

yeah....after 21 years in the business, ive lost my patience for this kind of nonsence. it boils down to being a proffesional ego-stroker. after doing it for years, i felt exhasted, taken advantage of, and definately grossley under-paid.how do stop the problem before it starts????let the new client know right up front, that you usually dont take new clients, because you have too many now, but however, out of courtesy, you will agree to give them one "audition". and if you end up being cohesive with them, you may take them on, but you will make that decision after their"audition"......their one time chance to be part of your clientele....hey, i know it sounds arrogant, but im no primadonna.i learned the hard way that if youre too accomadating, and too friendly to clients, it opens them up to start abusing your talents, and questioning your better judgement. instead, let them know right up front, that you are the star here, and that you are the one doing them the favor by letting them sit in your chair, NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND.remember to always be pleaseant, but right up front, make it clear who has the upper hand.it works for me. i no longer get headaches at work, and have sleepless nights before a day of 'doozies".because i have no more doozies.and the best part??human nature makes people want what they cant have, so naturally everyone flocks to you. since i started this approach,IM MAKING MORE MONEY THAN I EVER THOUGHT POSSIBLE.........thanks.......

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