Ask the Pro Stylist: Stylist, Educator, Manager, Executive, Tutor, Career Coach
Professionalism behind the chair is the cornerstone of my Ask the Pro Stylist career. I couldn’t have progressed as swiftly as I have without it. And now I am becoming certified as a career coach.
I don’t care what you do with friends, on social media, or in the privacy of your own home. Lord knows I have had my share of indiscretions. However, a professional attitude behind the chair is mandatory to maximize revenue.
The TikTok Responsible for Today’s Inspiration, Professionalism Behind The Chair
As I stared at my grey regrowth in my rearview mirror, desperate for a retouch, I recorded myself reciting the proper terminology. We say regrowth rather than roots; roots are for trees. Hair color is for applications, and dye is for clothes. A user responded, “Clients don’t care what terms you use.” Ah – so much to unpack in that short sentence. My initial reaction was, “Well, I am an educator and I care.” However, I also have a video response coordinating with this publication, stating why knowledge and professionalism are the roots of success. Therefore, let’s begin with how we should refer to clients.
Our Clients Are Our Guests
It’s not easy for the OGs of hairstyling to switch to the term “guests,” but it is important. It’s the same antiquated reference to calling hairstylists “hairdressers.” However, I adopted “guests” when I began educating for Paul Mitchell nine years ago.
While paying clients are indeed clients, and we need them for revenue, we use the term “guests” as a sign of reverence and gratitude for their patronage. When a guest enters our home, we offer hospitality and kindness. If we distinguish our clients as such, it tends to guarantee service rebooking.
Professionalism Behind the Chair: Beauty Knowledge Is Power
Professionalism behind the chair begins with knowledge. Using the proper terminology to guests exudes confidence and understanding of the techniques, service, and products. Therefore, they will purchase what you recommend. Statistics vary. However, some reports indicate a 70-80% guest retention rate for those purchasing retail related to their salon service. As a result, you can increase your bookings and commission through product sales, and the best way to sell is with knowledge of the service and product.
You are the artist, creative master, and knowledge guru. Using the proper terminology enhances your professionalism behind the chair.
Happy Styling!
Do you want to work in the beauty field? All beauty industry questions and answers are in my book, The Future Professional’s Guide to Cosmetology. Or email your inquiries to asktheprostylist@gmail.com. Follow me on TikTok for tutoring, career counseling, and site subscription updates. Coming soon: An online learning platform for cosmetologists preparing to take their state board exams. Online tutoring is currently available, and subscription to downloadable content is underway. Happy Styling!
©Deirdre Haggerty 2024. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. It is unlawful to reproduce this article or any part without the author’s prior written permission and consent.
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Cosmetology tutor, career coach, writer, author, NY & NJ State licensed cosmetologist, store and salon manager, beauty educator and executive school director, Deirdre Haggerty has been actively involved in the hair and beauty industry in New York & New Jersey for 40 years.
Now - get online help to pass your licensing exams in any of the states throughout the country or beauty career advice. Send Deirdre an email for more information regarding an online tutoring or career coaching session for the written and practical exams at asktheprostylist@gmail.com. (732) 800-6416
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