Running late SUCKS! Here's how to fix it...

Running a little behind schedule? Welcome to the club! 🕒

It happens to the best of us—the color doesn’t process on time, the cuts take longer than expected, or maybe, just maybe, the universe decides to play a prank on your perfectly timed day. Whatever the reason, time slip-ups are as much a part of salon life as hair on the floor post-chop.

But here’s the real buzz: how you handle running late can either make or break your client’s experience. No kidding! The minutes ticking by could be ticking them off... or could turn them into your most loyal fans. It’s all in the magic of your words. 🎩✨

The Silent Soundtrack of Waiting Clients

Imagine your client, phone in hand, glancing at the clock, then back at you. Here’s what might be playing on their mental jukebox:

• “Don’t they value my time?” 🕗
• “Maybe I’m not that important...”
• “Is this what I’m paying for?”
• "Is this the right place for me?"

Not exactly the Top 40 hits we want them to tune into, right?

Finessing the Wait with Words

Forget the overdone, cringe-worthy apologies or the panic-induced discounts. Let’s finesse this situation like the pros we are. It’s time to switch tactics and charm your clients into feeling like VIPs, even when the clock’s not on your side.

Here’s how to sprinkle some sparkle on the wait:

👉 Acknowledge and Appreciate: A simple, “Thanks so much for your patience,” does wonders. Recognition is key.

👉 Empathize and Elevate: Try, “I know waiting can be super frustrating, but I’m all set to make your visit fantastic.” It shows you care AND shifts the mood upwards.

👉 Reassure and Reinforce: Let them know, “Your understanding means so much to me,” to foster a bond over the bump.

The Power of Strategic Words

These aren’t just words; they’re your new superpower. 💪 The right phrases can make your clients feel valued and seen, keeping the power balance tipped in your favor without making you seem less in control. In fact, mastering this can transform a moment of potential dissatisfaction into an opportunity to demonstrate your professionalism and attention to client care.

Get the Scripts That Save Your Booty

Want to dive deeper into the art of turning delays into delights? I’ve cooked up something special for you! Grab my free resource, "Magic Words for When You're Running Late." It’s packed with the exact phrases I use to keep my clients happy and coming back for more—even if things kick off later than planned.

Click here to download your free guide! 🎁

Remember, being late doesn’t have to spell disaster. With a sprinkle of tact and a dash of charm, you can make every client feel like the star of the show, even if the show starts a little late. Let’s make every minute count, turning those potential pitfalls into moments of pure connection and satisfaction.

Stay stylish, stay savvy, and above all, stay smiling—because in the salon, every second is a chance to shine.

Until next time, keep those shears sharp and those words sharper! ✂️💬

-Crystal