How to become a celebrity hairstylist in your hometown
June 23rd, 2009 • Posted by Spa Kat • Permalink
Three previously unacquainted women were in their local gym, post workout, having a delightful conversation. One of them remarked on one of the other women’s hairstyle, “It is absolutely fabulous, who does your hair?”
When the splendidly coiffed woman revealed the true artist who cuts, colors and styles her beautiful locks the other two were astonished. All three women had the very same, dare I say 'local celebrity' hairstylist? In a serendipitous moment they all suddenly felt so smart, savvy and a sense of fabulousness themselves.
Whether you are a hairstylist, massage therapist, or European facial specialist, there is a whole laundry list of characteristics that can make you a standout but a few of them must be present to land the celebrity title.
They cast a wide net.
There are no waiting lists or protocol to see these local celebrities. They are successful because they are organized and consistent and therefore see the maximum number of clients in a day. Economists estimate that it takes 10,000 hours of practice to reach mastery so these exceptions are maxing out their hours to develop their skill.
They honor their clients first and therefore are honored by their community.
There is beauty in someone’s ability to service others whether in a store or in the community. It is an ability that stems both from humility and empowerment, these individuals know that when they do their best for clients they are building their career and the business they work with each day. Having an exceptional standard of service is one of the quiet characteristics of extraordinary spa and salon celebrities.
They are admired for their skill and talent with their clients.
You can take equally talented hairstylists and without question, the one with the personality to match will be the most successful. Without strong communication skills, a person’s talent will only bring them so far. It is true in almost any field where acumen and skill are required, emotional intelligence leaps the most successful to the front of the line.
A person of distinction.
I know the 'distinctive' characteristic because I was one of those three women in the gym talking about Erika, my local celebrity hairstylist. Erika is distinct because she listens, makes a variety of clients feel at home and creates hairstyles that, in my case, make me feel about 10 years younger. She is a wonderful technician and a very decent and fun person to be around.
Take a cue from Erika, she loves to watch people change their hair, it's a long-term process, and she gets that. I’m going to see her this week for my free bang trim, which she offers every three weeks as long as I promise not to cut them myself. Buy product from her? You bet, whatever you say Erika.
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I like this post! I am a massage therapist and own a small business.
I appreciate the mention about being both organized and consistent; however "emotional intelligence" is really key. It reminds me of a mother and daughter I massage who were talking about how they enjoy it (but have different goals). On one, I can't dig enough with my pointy elbows, and the other just loves that I "don't kill" her like other massage therapists (her words).
It really is about finding out what the client wants and delivering it… just for them!
Thanks for noticing!!! I have been creating Hair for 20 years now. I have come to be my clients friends, venting board and so much more. I love going to work every day knowing that I am making a positive difference in their lives. When they are ready for a change in their hairstyle, I am ready to deliver. One of the keys is to always remember that they can choose to go somewhere else and they chose you. Always treat your customers with respect and give them loyalty rewards (free bang trim, free eyebrow wax, half-off new product of the month, etc. Go the extra mile with them,and they will do the same for you, literally. In the completive spa business today, your client wants to feels like she is the only one!
I'm a stylist in Detroit, Michigan, and what I have learned in 11 yrs. of business being a hair stylist is that being neat, organized and professional is what clients need. You also need to have personality, versatility and creativity. I would love to travel the world to let people every where experience this great blessing from God that has been given to me. Also to share and do business with successful stylists! God bless you all and remember always "More Hair."
Great article! I have a salon in the Charleston area, and I truly believe to "honor their clients first." My stylists and I are always providing quality service and unique styles. I think we got a good response when we won "2008 Voted Best" in our city. It's hard work, but I love to do it!
Being a local celebrity hairstylist includes all the things you mentioned: lots practice, talent, professionalism, great listening skills — but I a little marketing never hurt anyone. Have some business cards ready to hand out and build clientele by offering discounts to people that bring in their friends!
I hope I can call myself a local celebrity hairstylist. I love my clients and what I do. Thank you or this blog. It inspired me. I just moved across town and now have to rebuild half my clientele so this helps.