10 Things I Learned As A Hairstylist

I've now been doing hair professionally for almost 7 years, but I learned A LOT about this industry from the very beginning. Here's some insight I would pass along to new stylists:

1. You can't make everyone happy

One thing I quickly had to learn is that not everyone is going to like you or the work you do, and that's ok! It doesn't necessarily mean you're not a good stylist. You could be the best out there, and there will still be people that just don't click with you. Honestly, sometimes it's not even about you... they might have their own self esteem issues they're working through and no one can satisfy them. Don't take it personally, and focus on the clients that do love your work.

2. It's better to under promise and over deliver

I'm always so excited to do someone's hair, especially when it's a big change, and I also feel confident in my abilities, so I used to have the bad habit of promising high expectations. Usually, things would go as planned and I could deliver what I promised, but sometimes, I couldn't, and that was a terrible feeling. Even if the hair was beautiful at the end, if it wasn't exactly what I had promised during the consultation, the client would be disappointed and I looked incapable. I've since learned it's better to stay humble and under promise, because you truly can never know with 100% certainty what can happen (especially with new clients). Then, if the results are better than anticipated, the client will be thrilled and you'll look like a superhero.

3. The consultation can be the most important part

The consultation is truly the make it or break it moment of the appointment. Even if the client's hair looks amazing at the end, if it isn't what they wanted or were expecting, you failed at your job. Take your time, look at inspiration photos, discuss the maintenance of what they are wanting, etc. I have an online course that will help you conduct the most successful consultation.

4. You NEED to have a cancellation policy

You will get no-shows and last minute cancellations, and it will be a huge waste of your time. Implement a cancellation policy and inform your clients about it when they first book.

5. You should block out time for a lunch break

It has always been the norm to not take breaks in this industry, and that's not healthy. If you're booked back-to-back, you likely won't have time for a break, so you need to block time out on your schedule each day for it. We need a moment to sit down, eat a real meal at a normal pace, and go to the bathroom. You will thank yourself in the long run.

6. Your real friends won't expect a discount

The people in your life who really care about you and respect you as a professional, will never ask you to do their hair at home or to give them a discount. They will book with you at the salon and gladly pay full price, just like a normal client. When I became a stylist, I quickly started to see people's true colors.

7. Burnout will happen

It's impossible to be on your feet all day, working with the public, listening to people's problems, and trying to make everyone happy, without getting burnt out eventually. Make sure to take some time off when you need it. Having at least one day a week where I can stay home in silence is a necessity for me!

8. It's better to set boundaries early on

Whenever you're working with the public, you absolutely will encounter people that will take advantage of you, when given the opportunity. If you're a natural people pleaser and tend to be easy going, it can be hard to establish boundaries, but it is so necessary. Don't bend over backwards for people, be firm with your policies, don't let people have access to you 24/7, and you'll weed out the bad clients.

9. You should never stop learning

One thing that I love so much about this industry is that it is constantly evolving. There's always a new technique or product to try, so don't become stagnant. Even when you get over 10 years experience under your belt, you should continue keeping up with your education, so you can always offer your clients the best. Otherwise, they might get bored and go to the newer stylist down the street.

10. This is the best career

Don't get me wrong, being a hairstylist isn't easy, and it can be draining. But getting my cosmetology license was also the best decision I ever made. I love that I get to meet new people all the time, create art on the daily, and have such a flexible schedule.

If you are new to this industry and are looking for affordable classes to further your education, I have several online courses on everything from haircuts, to color, to consultations, and more. Click here to take a look.