Just think about a situation—you have just completed your beauty course and landed a job at a busy salon or opened your own, eager to impress clients with your skills. You’ve perfected every technique—be it a precise haircut, flawless nail art, or a glowing facial. However, as weeks go by, you notice some clients aren’t coming back. Your work is good, so what’s the issue?
The answer is poor salon etiquette. Success in the salon industry isn’t solely about technical skills; it’s also about how you make clients feel. The habits and salon etiquette you cultivate, apart from your craft and technical skill, can determine whether a customer returns or not.
Let’s explore nine common habits clients dislike and how to avoid them to build a thriving career.
1. Not Greeting Clients Warmly
First impressions matter, and not greeting clients as they arrive can set a negative tone. A warm welcome is one salon etiquette that helps clients feel valued and appreciated right from the start.
How to improve: Always greet clients with a smile and a friendly “hello” or “namaste” as they enter. Remember to use their name if you know it, as this personal touch can create an even stronger connection.
2. When You Talk Too Much
Some professionals speak too much during appointments, discussing personal stories or gossip. While small talk can be pleasant, clients may prefer a quiet, relaxing experience.
How to avoid it: Pay attention to the client’s behavior. If they’re responding briefly or focusing on relaxing, let them enjoy peace and quiet.
3. When you are Running Late for Appointments
Being late or unprepared can seriously annoy clients. They’ve taken time out of their day for this appointment, and waiting around disrupts their schedule
How to avoid it: Stay organized with your appointments. If you’re running behind, always inform the client and apologize. Respecting their time makes them feel prioritized.
4. When They Experience Poor Hygiene
Clients expect salons to maintain high hygiene standards. Using dirty tools and failing to clean stations between clients is poor salon etiquette. It is not only unprofessional but also unsafe.
How to avoid it: Always ensure tools are sanitized, stations are clean, and personal hygiene is maintained. A clean environment reflects professionalism and care.
5. When You Rush Through Services
In a busy salon, it’s tempting to rush to fit in more clients. However, hurrying through an appointment can leave the client feeling neglected, even if the result is good.
How to avoid it: Focus on quality over quantity. Give each client the time they deserve, and they’ll leave feeling satisfied and well cared for.
6. Being Pushy With Product Promotion
While offering product recommendations is part of the job, pushing too hard can annoy clients. They’re there for a service, not a sales pitch.
How to Avoid it: Offer product suggestions when appropriate. Let the client decide without feeling forced, and they’ll trust your recommendations more.
7. Not Communicating When Needed
Clients like to know what’s happening, especially during more complex services like haircuts or facials. They may feel confused or dissatisfied if you don’t explain what you’re doing or how to maintain the results.
How to avoid it: Keep clients informed. Explain each step and offer aftercare tips so they leave with confidence, knowing how to maintain their results.
8. Being Inflexible With Additional requests
Sometimes, clients request small adjustments during a service. When you have many customers in line, you may refuse such demands. However, refusing to accommodate these changes can make them feel like their opinions don’t matter.
How to avoid it: Be open to feedback and willing to make changes. Flexibility shows clients that you value their satisfaction and are committed to giving them the best experience.
9. Handling Too Many Clients Simultaneously
Handling multiple clients at once might seem efficient and enticing, but it often leaves clients feeling ignored or rushed. They want your full attention during their appointment.
How to avoid it: Focus on one client at a time. If you need to juggle appointments, make sure each client knows what’s happening and feels valued throughout the process.
Conclusion
Building a successful career in the salon industry isn’t just about your skills; it’s also about understanding what your clients want. How you treat your clients matters just as much as what you can do for them. Practicing good salon etiquette, like listening carefully and taking your time during services, makes a big difference in how clients feel. Avoiding the habits we discussed can create a welcoming environment where clients feel valued and want to return.
To further explore the topic of salon etiquette, we invite you to participate in our Student Survey: Salon Etiquette in the Beauty Industry. Your feedback will help us better understand the importance of professional conduct in salons.
Student Survey on Salon Etiquette in the Beauty Industry.
Click here to take the Survey: https://survey.zohopublic.in/zs/DNDDFI
