Why this matters:
When recommending products, hair stylists must account for texture, damage, color, and client budget. By prioritizing client needs and avoiding aggressive sales tactics, they can build credibility without appearing insincere. In the long run, candidates can cultivate meaningful long-term relationships with clients, serving as their go-to product resource.
What to listen for:
- A genuine commitment to client needs
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Familiarity with a wide range of hair products
Why this matters:
Every client has their own unique difficulties, objectives, and budget. During the evaluation process, hair stylists should familiarize themselves with their clients’ expectations, suggesting the most appropriate changes or treatments. By doing so, they can deliver the best results possible, ensuring client satisfaction.
What to listen for:
- Ability to break down complex ideas or processes into simple terms
- An attentive, client-centric attitude
- Effective consultation strategies, such as asking specific questions or showing clients color charts
Why this matters:
When working with clients, hair stylists must use a wide variety of tools and equipment. To meet unique and diverse client needs, candidates should also keep pace with the industry’s newest, most advanced tools — as well as the techniques required to use them. By doing so, they can attract and retain clients of all kinds — especially for the long term.
What to listen for:
- Experience with popular styling and coloring tools, such as curling irons and dryers
- A clear approach to learning about the industry’s newest tools
- Any relevant certifications
Why this matters:
Occasionally, hair stylists will come across dissatisfied, uncooperative, or otherwise difficult clients. In these situations, communication is essential: by acknowledging all expectations and concerns, they can react sensitively and decisively. Over time, they can preserve and even strengthen client relationships — as well as set boundaries when necessary.
What to listen for:
- Ability to view stressful situations as learning opportunities
- Strong conflict resolution skills
- Ability to maintain a professional attitude under pressure
Why this matters:
Every now and then, hair stylists will encounter clients whose needs fall outside their expertise. Some clients may require complex treatments, for example, while others may desire precise, elaborate results. To meet their expectations and ensure satisfaction, candidates should be as transparent as possible, asking team members for help when necessary.
What to listen for:
- Ability to maintain clear, honest communication while upholding your organization’s image
- Strong teamwork skills
- Willingness to take initiative
Why this matters:
When unanticipated problems arise — such as a disgruntled customer or a last-minute request — hair stylists must act quickly. By thoughtfully approaching each situation, whether alone or with other team members, they can address unforeseen obstacles without neglecting any internal or client priorities.
What to listen for:
- Ability to act decisively in stressful situations
- Excellent time-management skills
- Willingness to ask for help when necessary
Why this matters:
By thoroughly getting to know clients — their unique preferences, needs, and communication styles — hair stylists can consistently provide high-quality services. Cultivating trust over time leads to long-lasting client relationships, an essential component of stylists' reputations and professional networks.
What to listen for:
- A track record of loyal clients, or eagerness to build one
- A strategy for documenting specific client needs
- An adaptable communication style that prioritizes specific client preferences
Why this matters:
As disagreements are somewhat inevitable, hair stylists should be prepared to smooth over any conflicts. Because many internal and client-facing processes require collaboration, candidates should practice effective and transparent communication, turning disagreements into learning opportunities when possible.
What to listen for:
- Ability to consider new perspectives
- Willingness to compromise when necessary
- In extreme situations, willingness to escalate problems in a professional manner
Why this matters:
Hair stylists often juggle several priorities at once — many of which involve diverse client needs. By prioritizing their most complex and pressing tasks, they can ensure all expectations are met in a timely, satisfactory manner. Doing so can prevent undue stress, especially when unexpected problems arise.
What to listen for:
- A clear task-management strategy
- Excellent attention to detail
- Willingness to take accountability for any oversights
Contact a sales consultant.