How to make more money as a hairstylist

As a hairstylist with over 20 years behind the chair, I understand the importance of increasing your income and building a successful career. However, simply raising your prices may not be the best strategy, especially in this current economy. Instead, it's important to focus on increasing the perceived value of your services so that clients are coming back and willing to pay more.

One way to do this is by specializing in a particular area of hair. By becoming an expert in a specific niche, such as blonding or bridal, you can charge higher prices and attract clients who are willing to pay for your expertise. This specialization not only sets you apart from other stylists but also increases your credibility and perceived value.

Another key to increasing the perceived value of your services is by providing exceptional customer service. I’d argue that this is much more valuable these days than specializations. It’s important to build strong relationships with your clients and make them feel valued and appreciated in your business. Take the time to listen to their needs, wants, and desires, offer personalized recommendations, and follow up with them after their appointment to ensure their satisfaction. These small gestures can make a big difference in how clients perceive the value of your services.

Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry is also crucial for increasing your perceived value. Attend trade shows, educational events, and invest in continuing education courses to expand your skillset. The more you know, the more you can offer your clients, and the more valuable you become as a stylist.

In addition, utilizing social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook can also increase your perceived value. It is your opportunity to start building that relationship with your clients before they ever set foot in your salon. Showcase your work, share your knowledge, and engage with your followers to build a strong online presence. This not only helps attract new clients but also positions you as a knowledgeable and reputable stylist.

Finally, when considering raising your prices, make sure you understand what your market will bear. Don’t price yourself so high that you end up with no clients. Ask around other salons and come up with prices that you feel clients would be able to pay. And once you decide your increase, it's important to communicate the reasons for the increase with your clients. Be transparent about the value you provide and how the increase reflects the expertise and quality of your services.

Increasing the perceived value of your services is key to building a successful salon career and making more money as a hairstylist. Specializing in a niche, providing exceptional customer service, staying up-to-date with industry trends, utilizing social media, and transparent communication with clients are all ways to increase your perceived value. 

If you need help with any of these things, I invite you to join my members only education called “Your Hair Mentorship”. It’s a budget-friendly high value digital education platform that teaches you everything needed to master these things! There’s really nothing else out there like this, and I guarantee you’ll get something out of it. 

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So I’ll leave you with this…raising your prices should come after you have taken these steps to increase the perceived value of your services, not as a shortcut to increase your income. By focusing on providing exceptional value and service to your clients, success (and money) will naturally follow.

Your Hair Mentor,

Crystal