Many qualities can make a great hairstylist. Each stylist brings their charisma, visions, and skillsets to the table. Although there’s no secret formula, these are five of the important qualities most great stylists possess.
1). Being Honest with Clients
Stylists must be honest with their clients every step of the way. If a client wants a haircut that won’t fit their face shape or have false expectations about a cut, the stylist should make recommendations that guide the client in the right direction. Sometimes clients want unique treatments, specialty salon products, or services not provided by the salon. Honesty and communication are powerful tools for ensuring the client receives great service.
A stylist should also help their guests avoid sticker shock. Sometimes clients request a service without knowing how much it costs. The stylist should be upfront with this information whenever the opportunity arises. This is especially true when the stylist suggests an add-on or elevated service. Unexpected costs ruin relationships between stylists and their guests. Being honest and upfront is the best way to avoid negative feelings in the salon.
2). Strong Listening Skills
A great hairdresser listens to their clients in more ways than one. It’s not uncommon for guests to share the good, bad, and ugly in their lives. The best stylists should show consideration, listen to their clients, and carry on conversations when appropriate. Above all, a stylist should make sure the guest feels heard at every point in the interaction. The stylists should smile, ask questions, and engage.
Even more, important is listening during the initial consultation. The hairdresser should clarify exactly what the guest wants, even when the guest has trouble explaining it. They should only proceed with the haircut or beauty service once both parties are aligned on what needs to be done. If the stylist and client are on the same page, in the beginning, they will likely be on the same page at the end.
3). Adaptability
No matter how skilled and experienced a stylist becomes, they still live in a changing world full of new trends, products, and guest visions. Remaining adaptable through a changing landscape is paramount to a hair stylist’s long-term success. One of the ways a stylist can do this is through continued education.
4). Turning Visions into Reality
Great hairstylists can stay on top of the latest trends. The best stylists can take those trends and integrate them with their guests' current styles and desires. Sometimes a stylist is so good they end up setting a trend or two themselves. Sometimes clients don’t know how to explain exactly what they want or they don’t know what will look good on them. A skilled and talented stylist can put that vision into words, define the plan, and execute it.
5). A High Level of Skill
At the end of the day, what matters to the client more than anything is a great haircut. The hairstylist can be the kindest, most creative person in the world, but it won’t matter if the haircut is mediocre. A great hairstylist needs to hone their craft and become adept at several techniques. This puts high importance on continuing one’s education. Lauren Gish of Fruition Salon, a hair salon in Nashville, Tennessee, says, “We promote a culture of continued education at our salon. Our amazing stylists are always learning and growing their skills”.
It’s also important for a stylist to become skilled in multiple techniques because it gives the stylist new perspectives and abilities. It helps them align with the client, create a vision, and create incredible experiences time after time.
