It’s no lie that some hairdressers provide less than satisfactory customer service. If you’re considering a career in the beauty industry, you don’t want to make the same mistake. Most clients won’t come back a second time if their expectations aren’t met. This includes being treated kindly and being completely satisfied with the outcome of their appointment.
The following three reasons play a large role in regard to why hairstylists lose customers. Once you start working, it’s recommended that you do your best to avoid each situation.
Being Too Focused on New Customers
According to inc.com, statistics indicate that it costs approximately eight times more to garner a new customer than it does to keep an established one. Yes, new clients are an important part of building your business. However, you need to spend an adequate amount of time interacting with the clients you already have, to let them know how much you appreciate their repeated business.
Not Paying Attention to Customer Requests
An important part of any service business is knowing how to listen to customer requests. This is especially true when your job is to alter someone’s appearance. Mistakes in this industry oftentimes can’t be corrected with a “quick fix.” For example, you can’t reattach hair in the event you cut it too short. That’s why it’s crucial that you listen to and fully understand what each client wants before you make any changes.
Not Knowing the Definition of Customer Service
Sometimes, it’s just a matter of not knowing the correct definition of customer service. If you plan to start your own business, SalesForce.com recommends that you create a clear definition of how you plan to give each client the personal attention he or she deserves. Once that’s done, it’s extremely important to follow through. If you decide to work for a salon, make sure that you fully understand the customer service policy implemented by the business.
Either way, much of what you need to do is just a matter of common sense. Give each client the level of service that you expect as a consumer. Happy clients means repeat business and free word-of-mouth advertising.
Of course, there are other reasons that hairstylists lose customers. It will happen occasionally, no matter how customer service-oriented you are. Don’t let it get you down. Remember, you can’t please everyone all the time. It’s humanly impossible. As long as you remain one of the many hairdressers who provide excellent service, you should have no problem being successful in the business.
Want to Learn More about Keeping Your Customers Happy?
When it comes to the business of beauty, a hairstylist needs more than skills. At Avenue Five Institute, we provide students with interactive, hands-on, activity-based learning, but also offer a professional development program. We have partnered with Nuts and Bolts, one of the most respected business training programs in the industry. This program will immediately impact your ability to make money, build your clientele, and keep current clients. For more information, please contact us today, and take your business to the next level!