Unraveling Your Struggles BTC: A Stylist's Quick Guide to Thriving
Mar 31, 2024As a hairstylist, there are obviously challenges that come with the territory. Struggles you’re having in the salon, with your clients or with your work/life balance. It’s a career filled with highs and lows, from the thrill of transformation to the trials of building a sustainable business. But just because these struggles are common, does not mean that they are not avoidable.
Let's tackle some of these challenges head on and give you some solutions that can lead you to a path of less resistance and more fulfillment. OK?
The Client-Chasing Cycle
You've been there—constantly hunting for new clients, pouring energy into promotions, and ads and discounts… and yet still facing days when your chair is more empty than you'd like.
You need to shift your focus to nurturing the relationships you already have. In the digital landscape we would call those people your ‘warm leads’. Your existing clients are literally your biggest advocates. Make them feel valued beyond their time in your chair, and watch as they become your most powerful marketing tool through word-of-mouth.
The Pricing Puzzle
Finding the sweet spot for your services can feel like walking a tightrope. Charge too little, and you undervalue your skill; charge too much, and you fear clients will walk away.
Confidence in your pricing comes from recognizing the unique value you bring. Regularly assess your rates in light of your growing expertise and the unique experience you offer. Your price should reflect your worth, and there are clients willing to pay for it. If you need help with your money-mindset, I highly recommend you check out my friend Misty Jayne. She's got some great free resources and a podcast as well!
Sacrificing Your Time
Long hours and the blur of back-to-back appointments running on nothing but coffee can leave you wondering when you last took a moment for yourself. It’s not something we do intentionally, but it always seems to happen.
It's crucial to set boundaries for your work and personal life. Use tools and technology to manage your schedule effectively, allowing you to reclaim your time and prevent burnout. I recommend Schedulicity for this. They even have a library full of FREE classes that yours truly has had the honor of adding to…
Client Dynamics
Handling new or difficult clients sometimes leaves you feeling anxious or overwhelmed. I know this struggle well!
You NEED to strengthen your communication skills and practice setting clear expectations from the outset. It’s about building trust and understanding, ensuring every client feels heard and respected. Communication skills are ALWAYS the skill that everyone waits until last to work on, because they are the least sexy. But the secret to banishing anxiety, stress and feeling overwhelmed is literally this…
The Emotional Weight
Feeling unappreciated, navigating demanding requests, and the constant push to excel can be emotionally draining.
First thing is…Remember, you’re not alone. Find solace and strength in a community of fellow stylists where you can share and learn from each other’s experiences. Your emotional well-being is as important as your professional success. There are so many online communities that are free and easily accessible. I recommend checking out the FB group called The Sovereign Stylist
Your Next Steps:
If these challenges ring a bell with you, consider this your wake-up call. My comprehensive course called Salon Experience Academy is designed with you in mind—turning those everyday struggles into stepping stones for success.
If you’re sick and tired of feeling exhausted, underpaid and know you deserve better…stop wasting another second. This course will show you how to stand proud, talk like a professional that is in charge and still nurture your clients with the love and care you always aim to provide.
There is a way to do this, I promise. You just need a few clever skills and a new perspective that will blow your mind.
Are you ready to stop feeling like ‘just a stylist’ and start being recognized as the expert you are? Let the Salon Experience Academy guide you there. Your chair is more than a workplace; it's the starting point of your most rewarding journey yet. (For your heart and your wallet!)
Hope this was helpful hair friend!
Cheers!
Crystal