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Part 4: Certifications for New Stylists: Performance and Exit Review

How Do you teach them? Start with Simple!

First, stylists should be held responsible for learning the little things on their own. Through the application you reviewed with your new stylists, you more than likely discovered they may need more certifications or classes to prepare them for the floor.

We need to rectify this, and we can do this through FREE base knowledge.

There are quite a few online classes stylists can take, and I have listed several that would be great starts for the new stylists.

Also, I have included a brief Quit Sheet— A truly underrated topic that needs more attention. You, at this point, will have begun the three-month trial with the stylists. Not all of them will make the cut or be able to handle the pressure of how much effort they will need to do on their own.

My list of recommended certifications for new stylists.

CERTIFICATIONS

K18—– https://www.k18hairpro.com/pages/get-certified

Olaplex——https://pro.olaplex.com/

Barbicide——https://www.barbicide.com/barbicidecertification/

S4 Keratin Treatment——https://www.s4hair.com/pages/certification

The Intentional Classroom LLC https://youtu.be/PlxX20-75QM?si=bSlXKigacF9S0E9b

This is a you tube class on the chemistry behind ACID – ALKALINE – THIO PERMS

This is the class I teach my stylists, and the best teacher teaches it- her classes are entertaining- brilliant- and quick. Her classes are FUN, and she is gifted when describing the chemistry of hair and products. I cannot say enough GREAT THINGS ABOUT HER!

*Hands-On Training  

Spend at least 4 hours —One Day —working together on a mannequin- have the new stylists perform as many cuts as they can. Begin with simple 1″ trims, work toward a long bob, and work your way up – short bob-chin length – then over the ear and end with a pixie.  If blowouts seem to be a problem for them – take the time to have them blow out each style with guidance from you, observing and readjusting their stances – hairbrush placement- partings- learning elbows UP, and the correct brush for the style they are working on. Again – have products you work with on a table – direct them to use said products on the mannequin, and have them explain out loud why they use said product on their hair.  

Cuts needed to pass the 3-month trial  

A.) A trim and bangs

B.) Cut 1′ inch off—Timed within 30 min to one hour

C.) Cut 2′ inches off—45 min

D.) Angled Bob—-45 min

E.) Bob shoulder length—45 Min

F.) Chin length Bob—45 Min

G.) Above the jaw, Sassoon cut—45 to one hour

This is a lot of learning – And it needs to be scheduled within three months. Bangs seem to freak them out. I suggest solidly mapping sections to help them understand where to cut.

Every stylist hired will always be on their best behavior, and trust me- it is excruciatingly hard on them to keep up good graces for an extended period without breaking completely. Owners, this goes for you as well. By the end of the 3-month saga you’re putting them through, they will either respect you and your time or be bitter. You, the boss, will have a better idea of how long and arduous this training will take, and from here on out, you will have a complete understanding of whether you can fix any existing problems smoothly. If things aren’t looking so good- well, now you know it’s time to let them go.

Which leads us to our following paper for staff when hiring – the HOW TO QUIT SHEET

These stylists need to feel safe enough never to feel like they must leave like thieves in the middle of the night. (Which can be weird & Rude).

*** WHEN YOU QUIT –OR—GET FIRED WHAT TO DO

THE EXIT INTERVIEW

Should you decide to resign, we kindly request that you discuss it with the relevant management or the owner. If there are any issues you wish to discuss, I assure you that we will listen and respect your decision to leave. Stylists must never clear out their station when clients are present in the shop. The owner or salon manager will be present when you gather your belongings to ensure you do not take anything that does not belong to you. This also prevents you from leaving any of your belongings. There should be no commotion, and the environment will be kept safe so you can gather your things calmly. If you forget anything, we will mail it to the address you provided.

“Owners, always remember that you need to set a professional example for your staff. Our business involves a lot of change, and people will come and go, which is okay. While you may not always remember the drama, you will remember how you reacted to it. Make sure your actions and words reflect the best of you for others to see and hear.”

WWW.BookPressed.com

Salon Owner and Hair Slave to my schedule

Heather Lea Ryan

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Part 3: Let’s Start Hiring!

Hiring for Booth Rental Hair Salons

The different personalities coming at an owner hiring will ultimately boil down to these three types.

*The Fresh Out of School Stylist

*The Commission to Booth Rent Stylist

*The F@@k that last Salon I worked at Stylists

Topics Include where you can find these stylists, why retention is so hard to keep them, and finally, why the stylists are not busy. Potential problems you as a boss may encounter and what to be prepared for if you hire them. Reasons you may not want to hire, and finally, the benefits of hiring these types of stylists.

***FRESH OUT OF SCHOOL STYLISTS

Where do you find them? At the local cosmetology schools- through your clientele. I’ve found that if you, as a boss, volunteer to teach a class or offer a helping hand at one of the schools – it can give the students a chance to get to know you.

Why is retention so hard? Your Salon may be too advanced for them. You may need a better plan/outline of ‘HOW’ to develop their skills. These stylists are scared, and if they have a plan of attack from you, the owner, they might not quit so soon.  

Why is he/she not busy? They are not behind the chair enough, or you don’t have enough clients to help with the growth. Consider a better plan for advertising for these stylists.

Potential Problems? New stylists may cost you ratings because they are, in fact…new to the industry.   

Be prepared for a stylist who is unsure of themselves and scared, and then the, ‘I can do it! Leave me alone!’ stylists. We focus on the personality of this stylist because for these newbies to make it in our industry and, more specifically, the booth renter industry, you need honesty as to how hard they will need to work to become solid stylists. Ask them if they intend to attend ongoing classes.  Moreover- are you, as a salon owner, willing to allow them to hang themselves if they,’ Know it all” and don’t intend on attending any classes at all? The bottom line is that they will need guidance and a vast support system, which requires immediate immersion- and they need YOUR time. Give this stylist a mandatory one-month, 2-month, and 3-month evaluation. This is your time to see if you can work through the attitudes while they are developing their skills. Sit down and write up a list of what you want and expect from them.

DO NOT HIRE unless they pass all your basic requirements after three months. Did they work the hours promised or the hours needed? Have they set up ongoing classes for themselves? Do they roll their eyes and seem to hate your help with anything? Well, no surprise. * Insert sigh* They have not matured enough to understand you are doing this for them.

HIRE if you have the time and patience. They have a written plan and are working towards a goal. You are aware of underlying circumstances affecting their commitment. You see them trying!

***COMMISSION TO BOOTH

Where do you find them? Post pictures of your Salon and include the Salon’s everyday life. You are trying to let them see YOU. Let them try and imagine themselves working with you. Do you have funny moments? Or are you strictly chandeliers and straight-faced all the time? These stylists have been paying attention to your posts, probably more so than clients. So where do you find them? You don’t – They find you, and we are back to – are you worth working for? 

Why is retention so hard? Usually, it’s because they lack experience or the requirements to run their own business. They are unable to work the hours. The clients may not have followed them, and they have a significant loss in funds.

Why are they not busy? These stylists didn’t contact their clients and didn’t plan on losing more than 50% of the clients because of a location change.

Potential Problems? They will feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of caring for themselves and their finances, taxes, and record keeping. They can’t afford the products. With their new feeling of freedom, they become undependable. The ‘I do what I want—when I want’ attitude takes over.

Be Prepared These stylists are ready to go- they want control over finances, their time and freedom, and a say in what products they use. Be Prepared to help them transfer into the booth rental by locating a local financial adviser to come into the Salon and offer a class on topics such as LLCs and high-yield savings- explain what a fiduciary adviser does. Owners make sure you both have a clear understanding of how they think you run your shop. They must understand your expectations of cleanliness, ongoing education, and client respect. These things are important because although they are their own bosses- your reputation is on the line, and it will be no one’s fault but your own if you do not ask the proper questions to sift through who you are hiring.

DO NOT HIRE—If they don’t have a checking account, hairdresser insurance, or their plan for an LLC – accountant – or respect for you and what you are trying to HELP them with. Understand they are now required to keep themselves updated in the industry; while it is not our JOB to help this much- you should be willing to go this far if you’re considering hiring a guy/girl coming into your Salon from a commission atmosphere. If they come in wanting a job because their last boss hurt their feelings, FLAG—These are serious things, and becoming a booth rent operator is a responsibility.   

Hire If you have the time to coach with any new questions and see they fit with existing staff well.

***THE F@@K MY LAST BOSS

Where do you find them? In a couple of scenarios, they may find you through stylists’ grapevines or, plainly put, they found you because they know how envious the old salon owner was of your Salon.

Why is retention so hard? They may have a terrible disposition; he/she considers your Salon a steppingstone until they can collect themselves and figure out a better plan. You hired too soon.

Why are they not busy? Most likely, they didn’t have many clients, and the ones they had would not follow him/her because they were loyal to the Salon, not the stylist.  

Potential problems? This stylist may have been the catalyst that caused the drama in the last Salon. They may bring old bad habits with them. 

Be Prepared To ask questions, like why did they leave the last Salon? Was it a bitter ending? Is it a legal battle? A safety risk? Drugs? Insubordination?  You may need to give this stylist a whole new clientele.

Do Not Hire If you see any animosity—anger—or if they are holding the old Salon directly responsible for all their life’s problems. They may have complained of not having enough clients—ask if they worked the hours needed. It’s hard to look into a mirror and see you may have been the problem.  

Hire if you feel this is a good fit for everyone and they are willing to work the needed hours.

Booth Rental Salons can be challenging, uncommunicative, and cold, but they don’t have to be because you are ultimately in charge of WHO sits in your area and congruently aids in those types of atmospheres. Most booth salons host a small and efficient space, ensuring that the space holds a calm, collected feel. And that is what you are striving for: calm, professionalism, Steady, Great Work.

KEEP SCROLLING FOR APPLICATION BELOW

***APPLICATIONS

Our booth rent is ________. It is due every Saturday of the week. There is a $10 late fee. If it happens more than three times in a row, it becomes $10 a day.   

NAME:

ADDRESS:

EMAIL:

INSTAGRAM:

FACEBOOK:

POSITION IN SALON YOU ARE INTERESTED IN:

Please list three things you feel confident about regarding your hairdressing skills.

Please list three struggles you have in your work & list why you think you need help in this area.

*** LET’S DISCUSS TOGETHER New Stylists

Please list the days and hours you intend to be at work physically.

Please list any current certifications you currently hold or are currently working on.

Please list a professional company (e.g., Redken, Goldwell, or Any) with which you intend to take classes.

What do you consider to be too much money for a class?

100.00 ——200.00—–300.00——-1000.00—-

Do you have up-to-date supplies? Shears? Blow dryer? Clippers?

What was the last class you had?  What did you learn in that class? And were you able to apply the new techniques to any clients?

Have you ever dealt with any advertising?

Do you have a business account?

Have you ever had a financial class?

Would you be open to attending one?

Do you currently hold any hairdresser insurance?

Are you aware of the taxes you will need to pay?

Where do you see yourself in three years in our industry?

I will explain WHY I have a -1-month, two, month and 3-month evaluation before you are officially hired.

*** LET’S DISCUSS TOGETHER Commission to Booth Rental & F@@k My Last Boss

Do you currently hold any hairdresser insurance?

Have you ever had a financial class?

Would you be open to attending one?

Do you live within a reasonable distance of the Salon? Will the distance impact the percentage of clientele wanting to change locations?

Why do you want to change to booth Rental?

Have you prepared the clients for a change? How are you doing this?

Is your old salon owner supportive of the change? Why or why not?

Do you have professional cards to hand out?

Do you have a price list available for us to list on our website?

I will need a 3rd person Bio written up for us to display on our website.

*** LET’S DISCUSS WHAT OUR SALON IS ABOUT!

The goal of this application is to make sure you understand what type of Salon we host. We travel once a year to classes within the United States. Also, we host a community event for the public every year, and you are expected to attend. Our Salon is about work. We work hard so we can enjoy our lives; we are mindful of each other’s space, and we respect our clients immensely. We make money because we work hard here. We do not bicker or fuss- never has there ever been or will there be any animosity on the floor. We have meetings when needed, and I (the owner) will work around schedules as best as I can – You are expected to be there- I will teach you any class you need- all you must do is ask- We can work on mannequins- or you can bring in a client. Please understand – you represent our Salon- you are your own boss-

NO GO’S  

DRUGS –

NOT SHOWING UP FOR CLIENT

SMOKING IN BETWEEN CLIENTS

LEAVING A CLIENT ALONE UNSUPERVISED WITH ANY CHEMICAL STEALING(BORROWING) OTHER STYLISTS EQUIPMENT

LEAVING THE SHOP IN BETWEEN CLIENTS

DRINKING WHILE WORKING

STARTING A FIGHT ON THE FLOOR

CLIENT DISRESPECT

NOT PAYING BOOTH RENT

NOT HELPING WITH CHORES

WE RUN AS A TEAM, AND TRUST AND COOPERATION ARE ESSENTIAL FOR LONGEVITY AND FOR MAINTAINING A HEALTHY WORK ENVIRONMENT.

Questions are asked here, so make notes- pay attention to keywords. Ex- they need to work asap- they like the look of your shop- your salon is walking distance- can they afford the leap into booth rental.

FUNNY APPLICATIONS

Name-Not what you like – but what is your REAL NAME the one everyone will call you – no Unicorns – or stupid shit please-

Address- Please do not sleep at the salon

Phone Number you will maybe sometimes answer

Email: I can try to contact you, but you’ll never look at it.

Instagram without pictures of your last drunk night out.

Facebook page where I can see the real you as I scroll to your kindergarten pictures.

The position you want.

Please list the days you THINK you can be here.

Please list why you think continuing education is overrated and why you will never need it.

Please list a professional company to which you might pay attention.

Please tell me if you’ll whine about a class that costs $25.

Are you confident your jerry-rigged blow-dryer will make it through a blowout?

Have you ever been to any classes? Did you learn anything, or did you leave the class and shop in the market area?

Did you think the class was stupid?

Have you done any other advertising for your business besides representing Claw Drinks on your Instagram?

Do you have a business checking account, or do you want your clients to make checks out to the credit card companies you owe money?

Do you have hairdresser insurance if you ignite someone’s hair because you forgot to listen to the teacher talk about how chlorine and bleach are not friends?

Have you ever paid taxes?

Do you have reliable babysitters?

Do you have a reliable alarm to wake your ass up to get to work?

I saw your car in the parking lot- can you safely make it to work?

Do you have any legal restraints against you, an ex, or family members?

Have you ever gone to jail for fighting?

Do you believe gummy bears are the answer to life’s dramas?

Are you a sober worker or need a bump to get you through the day?

Our shop is doing fine without you bringing the black cloud to us. Can you promise to try and work without getting on our nerves? Also, you are not allowed to cry or feel overwhelmed. You wanted this. Now work. Nothing comes fast or free, so be prepared to take the time to become a fantastic stylist. And for God’s sake, don’t ever roll your eyes at anyone. We will plot against you. If you do quit- don’t make a scene- just go- and we won’t hate you because we are not that petty so don’t be afraid to say hello on the street – don’t make it weird mmkay.

I know I’m going to get backlash about the word Hiring- look – your booth is available- and who you let rent that booth is a big deal- It’s a double edged sword- the salon gets ratings based on the work coming OUT of that salon. SO booth or not- cutting down on the types of stylist working next to you is a concern- and – if you want to help the stylists coming out of school or moving over from a commission shop is something only you the owner can answer- so cut through the boss lingo – no one cares – this piece is to let you know booth rentals salons can have a better idea of stylists coming in. You do have a say –

Yes they have the autonomy of being a booth renter with supervision and guidance of a mentor.

Salon Owner – booth rental worker – former commission stylist – Geez let’s not get crazy with this –

Heather Ryan Salon Owner

WWW.BookPressed.com owner

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Stylists being Confronted online about Pricing

Social media interaction plays a huge role in our salons these days; it affects our reputation and holds us accountable for the prices we charge.

   There is an untold amount of chatter on all social media platforms about stylists and salons over selling themselves and their abilities. I and other stylists have been observing the mad rush of stylists upping their prices based on inflation – meaning they are using price increases as a crutch to up prices from a 5% inflation to a 10% price increase or higher without justification. Although the price hike is a concern for clients, they now demand the value of the experience to be reflected – period.

   Clients are now leaving the stylists who are just playing the game and weeding through those stylists who are in the game. And this is where we are. We are being monitored and checked-

   First, look at SOME stylists’ base arguments about why they are charging more money. 

  • Because booth rent for them is so ‘damn expensive.’
  • Because they pay an ‘extraordinary amount of money for continuing education.’
  • Because ‘I’m having a baby’. 

   The backlash from two of those types of price hikes isn’t cutting it anymore. Clients are talking, reasoning, and basing more on actual performances than pretty pictures and feeling bad for others’ bad spending habits. 

   So, Stylists, ask yourself the real hard questions.

 Are you worth the time and money? Because only One of those answers is working with a business mindset. #2 

And I will tell you why –

   The stylist who has budgeted and planned for a two thousand-dollar, class has committed to becoming worthy of their prices. Now, don’t confuse what I am saying— you don’t have to spend that type of money for a masterclass, but you will need to gain alternative ways to achieve that type of experience. 

   The other two reasons are bullshit.

AND I’ll tell you why- IF the booth is too expensive, you are playing in a field too big for you – because you don’t have the client base or don’t want to work the actual hours to make the money to be at that location. Hard- but there it is.

And the last reason for the pricing structure is personal. Clients won’t mind paying the price for you to perform the task – but never, not once, does it include a baby tax or your summer vacations with weekends off.  

   If you want to know if you fall into our ‘People Are Talking About You’ category- answer these questions.

1.) Do you take your continuing education seriously enough to get your knowledge from the source, or are you getting a secondhand, watered-down version from stylists who DID attend a class? (I hate that shit).

 2.) Do you think you should be spoon-fed clients through the front desk and not attempt to connect with clients? 

3.) Do clients like you and your personality, or can you not help your resting bitch face?

   Yeah, these are real things that won’t cut it in our industry. Because believe it or not – The last client of the day deserves the same smile and enthusiasm you started the day with.

    Fortunately for the client, a significant part of finding the right salon is addressed when salons provide a price list and stylist information on their business website. This information helps to prevent sticker shock pricing and gives a better idea of the stylist’s skills and expertise. Clients want stylists to Provide “CONFIDENT VALUE” for their hard-earned money. Not someone hiding behind -“Specializations” or Vague unsupported titles. 

   To be clear, how can stylists effectively convey their value to clients without resorting to vague unsupported titles? Client Communication –

1.) Be honest with your background. Are you a beginner with this technique? Make that information JUST as visible as your Instagram photos.

2.) Let it be known you are a stylist working your way up the ladder and you WILL increase prices as you learn. 

3.) Be willing to do the work 

   Honesty and a clear understanding of where you are and where you plan to be and become will let that client understand – you will be raising prices because you will be worth it & this information will stop a heavy dose of these topics being raised by clients.  

   You stylists aren’t the only ones working hard, so keep it real. 

BE Real – Be Honest – Be Willing to WORK.

Salon Owner- Heather Ryan

http://www.Bookpressed.com Owner

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Part 2 New Staff

Easy Enough – supply list to go over. No two staff members are the same – one may come from a family with money while another may need a lot more help from you. NO TWO STYLISTS ARE THE SAME!

The Long-awaited Part 2 to training new staff.

This is your BASIC LIST OF NEEDS TO BE A BOOTH RENTER

This first week for your stylist is all about making them COMFORTABLE with their surroundings. Give them a minute to find their sea legs. As for you, Boss- your goal is to observe how your new staff is doing. Remember – THEY ARE NEW, BE NICE!

This is your BASIC LIST OF NEEDS TO BE A BOOTH RENTER

1.)   Clarify shampoo- Olaplex 4 & 5 This is a great starter kit for their back bar.

2.)   1 to 2 capes ONLY – plastic at the top and fabric on the bottom – Framar has it going on in this area.

3.)   2 cutting combs – try finding a Vidal Sassoon knock-off. You can find some on Protools.com. I cannot express how EVERYTHING counts when doing hair.

4.)   1 tail comb

5.)   A Mason Brush- the Misel knockoffs will work perfectly. This is an incredible tool for you stylists who suck at styling short hair, it also comes in handy for Hollywood waves and great ponytails.

6.)   If you need to provide your own towels, get 24. You can find them on towel hub. Get the bleach-proof ones.

7.)   Invest in several separating baskets for your drawer or cabinet.

8.)   A GOOD BLOWDRYER – do not disappoint me here. Cheap ones won’t cut it or last.

9.)   2 curling irons – not the cheap ones! One is a ¾, and the other should be 1.’

10.)  GHD Flatiron

11.)  GHD ANYTHING

12.) 1 hairspray

13.) 1 wax

14.) 1 shine

15.) 1 texture

16.) K18- Olaplex

17.) Mirror

18.)  Spray Mister

These items are costly- and new stylists must invest in their own dream. Shitty products or shitty equipment will make the job of new stylists THAT much harder.

Now, here is where your owners are going to freak out.

****BUT IF YOU WANT new out of school staff – get ready to help in a major way.

Figure out if you want to do 6 months of commission – and every time they use, say- a 6n they are to go buy 2 boxes. One to replace the one they used and the other for them to keep. While I am training – I DO NOT ALLOW MY STAFF to buy colors they have not worked with.

HOW CAN THEY AFFORD THIS LIST?

A little at a time

I allow the new girl/guy to use my things as needed. Work with my equipment, etc., for about 4 to 5 days – When they do a client at a reduced rate, mind you –

I let them keep the money- I let them do this for 2 weeks- with no booth rent- THAT IS HOW I HELP- ANY money they receive IS EXPECTED to be put into their equipment.

I have only had one girl ball out and spend on clothes after her first HOLY SHIT I’m MAKING MONEY Day. And I couldn’t yell- she did invest in her wardrobe. It’s actually cool to see them get fired up about learning and making money-

I am a business owner. My example is that I’m CREATING better stylists faster, more loyal, and more creative. My job is HARD- and I am sharing the journey you will both be on.

Bossing ain’t Easy

Styling ain’t Easy

& Keeping Our Attitude in check is something we all need to work on

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Learning to Train your New Stylists

I am now a salon owner. My career in hairdressing began 34 years ago as an assistant & among the 13 salons I’ve worked in. My background is just as diverse as how I got paid. No matter what system it is, salary vs. commission or booth rent, I am familiar with how it works. The starting point for training in our industry is to understand each system so that frustration can be alleviated when discussing the operation of each salon. Commission and Booth rental training have significant differences, and I will focus on how to train a stylist for a booth rental salon.
It has taken me this long to find what makes me the happiest in our industry. I enjoy training new stylists, and with my background and knowledge of our industry, I know how to introduce new stylists and provide them with the basics they’ll need to succeed because, like most salon owners, I am a professional beginner. Always learning- however, the difference is – there are very few of us who have the PATIENCE to teach new stylists.
We must remember that new stylists have been given a licensed to learn. That is all.
In the following few articles, I will help you understand why you need to start from the very beginning with every new stylist. From holding a comb properly to 0 elevation. Hopefully, the following few articles will help you figure these out.
Why finding workers is so hard.
Why retention in salons is so hard
Why is your salon not busy

Lesson One: WHO AM I? AND WHAT DO I NEED IN MY SHOP?

Many salon owners ask me – where do I find people to work for me? Well, exactly what people are ‘they’? Are ‘they’ Beginning stylists you want to mold? Are ‘they’ advanced hair stylists? It would help if you figure out who you want to work in your shop. I suggest you have a clear idea of what type of stylist you’re looking for instead of just any warm body to fill the position. (We will discuss personalities later.) Once you’ve answered that question you can now target a starting point as to where ‘they’ will be.

ARE YOU WORTH WORKING FOR?

Is your salon fun to work in? Will you challenge your stylists with new techniques? Are you apart of your community? Do you offer free hair to models for training? Are you supportive In All areas for stylists?
Are you worth working for? And I’m not talking about your clothes – your lashes – your haircuts that you charge 200 for – ARE YOU worth working for? Are you CAPABLE of having patience? Support? And can you be the damn EXAMPLE? Can you teach a simple perm class? Can you offer a Wig cutting class?
We’ll find out if you are capable of teaching.
Now your first homework is to Write down and figure out WHO YOU ARE –
1.) What does your salon represent to you – your staff- your community?
a.) Your mission? THE WHY ARE YOU GOING TO WORK EVERY DAY!
b.) Your Vision? WHAT DO YOU WANT THE BUSINESS TO BECOME?
c.) Your Goal? What are the 3 to 5 goals you want to accomplish this year? Ex/ Fill the chairs?
If you can get excited about your salon and what you do daily, your passion will become contagious. Be excited ABOUT your salon. Now tell me WHY I should want to work there and HOLD ON TO THAT!

Until the following blurb of hopefulness and guidance, start writing down your thoughts – and let’s move on to help you get your salon rolling! There ARE SO many stylists out there who NEED you!
Stylist for it seems, forever – Salon Owner -Writer – http://www.bookpressed.com owner- Finally passing on my best advice for you starters Heather Lea Ryan

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Hairdressers and Success

Hairdressers define Success.

Definition

– Success is a relative term – IF YOU ACHIEVE WHAT YOU WANT AND ARE HAPPY. 

We stylists are all very different – and as bosses, we need to understand that each of our staff will ultimately have different definitions of what Success means to them. For example, one stylist would say having enough money for family vacations is enough of a goal, while the stylist sitting next to them desires Fame and Fortune.

No matter what the stylist’s definition of Success is, I am here to tell you that it is solely up to the stylist to meet their own goals to create their own happiness; however, our job is to help them find balance. Between Work and LIFE –

So how do we get to the core of what’s essential for your staff? Begin by asking them —

1.) If their Professional Goals Are Being Met.

*Do they understand the fundamental complexities of perms? Tape-ins? Updos?

2.) Is Fame and Fortune a goal, and what vision of themselves do they see?

*Do they need 100,000 followers on social media and charge 500.00 for a haircut?

3.) Ask if Family Life and Time are more meaningful to them.

*Is spending more time with family and flexible hours vital to them?

 It’s essential to recognize that employees may have goals beyond their job description. These goals may be crucial for employees to express their creativity, advance their skills, and gain satisfaction from their work.

Only some people want to be hairdressers on camera. For some, a tremendous success may be learning to hold a brush or confidently creating wedding updos.

While those successes may sound simple and trivial, they are a massive deal to stylists who have struggled with them for years. 

Learning to use a brush is considered a soft skill knowledge, and one we bosses can help with through demonstration and work style approach – these goals are easily accessible. 

However, some goals are more challenging to teach because they are more personal.

Now, suppose fame and fortune are the stylists’ focus. It is essential for the boss to understand that the stylist considers their occupational success to be not only based on their shop but also on the approval of their community. Social acceptance is their primary goal, and these stylists may need to look deep into themselves and ask, ‘Why’ do other opinions count so much to them? This area is strictly personal and considered a self-motivated sensitive area.  

Money – you can never have enough, and if stylists measure money as a level of happiness – they will never be happy with you – or themselves – or anyone who has more. If they work actively to develop long-term goals instead of the quick dollar, that type of Success will ultimately build character and generate healthier relationships.

Some stylists are more tuned in with family and time, and their level of success is a happy home life; for some stylists generating 30,000.00 a year is perfect.

Time with family overrides any stress work would cause, and they are happily generating enough money for basic needs. 

This stylist does not need praise; they practice the art of ‘balance’ with work and passion. As a boss, you must understand that this stylist is good at saying NO. 

Taking the time to help our staff find their way through the haze of happiness – Success – relies on us to break down – real GOALS. 

Understanding the Goal mix in your shop will help everyone realize, Success is measured differently.

And that’s what makes an excellent SHOP – Different personalities – Different Goals –

Heather Lea Ryan 

Owner of http://www.bookpressed.com

Salon owner 

#SuccessandGoals #SalonOwners #Hairdressers #FindYourWay #YouveGotThis #WhackedAdventures

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Salon Humor – THE ZOO STAFF

Small Shop and Big Ideas

I have a 4-chair salon- I offer Booth rent. So, hate me.

I have never wanted to own a large salon. It was never a Have to have feeling. Working in our industry for over 25 years before finally opening my own plays a more significant role than I think. Now 34 years into the industry – I have seen what 30 women in a room can be like, and I was uninterested in that stress. So, let’s look at some indicators that will show what kind of a boss or shop you would want to start without going through my years of experience.

 The Question: How many stylists/estheticians/barbers/ massage people do you want?

So – how do you figure out How many people you’ll want?

My advice- Go to a local Zoo.

If you want a salon with over 15 people

Meander on over to the Meerkat display.

Welcome to a visual display of what your business will look like.

The staff disappears quickly when you call their names or something loud drops on the floor. They are constantly looking out for the boss like they are picking a lock at a local Bank. Lookouts are always there to flag your approach, and when separated, they seem to panic and look for help.

Your salon will be controllable because they are scared and always looking for direction. Plan on taking a bit more time teaching them new techniques because they have the attention span of a flea.

If you want a more extensive shop, around 30 and up 

Your next stop will be the Jekyll and hyena display.

These salons’ motto is to get out my way, or you’ll suffer. First, ensure you have a large office to hide in; make it comfortable. You’ll need extra counter space for simple kitchen necessities like a mini fridge – coffee- and microwave. You’ll need these items as mingling with the staff at feeding hours is not wise. Have a tinted-out window to observe the floor – watch your flock of deer (new team) because the older staff like to destroy them. It’s a fun game for them – scary when seen in action.

Good news for this boss – no one ever complains of any bullying — — this place is run with prison rules- snitches get stitches.

You can only run this shop if you are Not an active hairdresser- and may God help your soul, IF you aren’t a Licensed hairdresser- we will not respect you as you have not earned your stripes- we don’t care if you are a big wig at Loreal – you are not one of us. You don’t know what it’s like to survive in the trenches.

You want a salon of 4 to 10 people. 

Our next stop is the capybara. 

The salons with 4 to 10 staff members get along very well. The staff keeps themselves happy and busy with clientele. When salon meetings are called, they are brief and to the point, as they all just want to get on with their life in the sun. When new staff members are introduced, they gather in welcome and do not like when anyone picks on them. If you make the mistake of correcting them in public, all staff members will look at you in shame and console the chastised ones in the break room.

If you find your comfortable spot here, understand your staff will make more than you because you actually F*ing care.

So, in closing

The more significant answer to your question is.

Do you want to Boss Out like 

*Warden 

*Enthusiastic Cheerleader

*Fairy Godmother 

You choose- It’s all hard- the ideas – the money – the travel- the fake smiles- the clients – the wicked staff- the sweet tooth staff- it’s a BUSINESS – that is all – just make sure you understand whether you have 5 or 60 it needs tending to – it needs your FULL attention-

Salon Owner at Hair Loft on Linden  Heather Ryan

Hairdresser of over 34 years 

Owner of WWW.BookPressed.com

#WelcomeToTheJungle #SalonOwners #SalonIdeas #SalonArticle #StopBeingSoSerious #JustWrite #BookPressed #HairLoftOnLinden #LearnFromTheOldDogs

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What High volume salons understand

What is a high-volume hair salon? It’s the salons that produce high ratings, quality work and friendly service. Sounds easy enough, so what changes should you and your salon implement to be considered one of these?

Start by asking-

-What is the shops Attitude?

-What are the salons price points?

-What is the value of my staff?

1. Attitude is a huge portion of how the shop will do in business and ratings.

Is your staff rude? Does the stylists disappear when a client is under the dryer? Do you find that the team is not up to date on current trends or equipment? These are the things you as an owner need to keep a check on.  It’s huge portion of how the shop will fair in ratings and demand. 

 When clients visit your shop, they should leave feeling and looking better, that won’t happen when one of your staff is combative on the floor or has just convinced a client his botched color of green is ‘In’. These days people are communicating on places like Next Door and if your shop is in a small town – word travels fast. The service starts from the parking lot to the greeting, chair time, and check out. This is a business, maybe you need to remind your staff of this point. This isn’t some shit show, not the gossip hour, and you’re not here to see who can charge the client the most –  make sure your staff understands what the Salons overall standards ARE.     

2. Price Points, how much is your staff charging for their services? You can raise your prices all day long however when you get to a certain point, you risk the bottom dropping out and plummeting ratings. Higher prices are almost the norm in bigger cities, most likely they have a larger overhead and larger pool of people to pull from. A motto of “If you won’t pay for it the next one will”. In a smaller town the better business model will have you focused more on retention. It’s no guess work if you raise your prices from 55 to 85 in a month, you’ll have the clients shaking their heads in disbelief and going elsewhere. Make sure the ones charging is Worth their Value

Your Price points should include staff knowledge, professionalism, and location.

Which leads us into our next subject.      

3. Value – In my mind is the single most important principle you and the staff should be working on.

I say this often , when stylists graduate from cosmetology they are given a license to LEARN. The learning should never stop… EVER. Anyone can be busy with clients all day – but when the stylists and owner become BUSY it means its time to ADD on to your knowledge. Throw in a Tape in – Go for the K18 condition – Olaplex treatment- Perm – sell some products- talk about hair and the changes to your clients.

Ultimately this is the ONE AND ONLY thing that can stop a hair salon- stylist- from growing.

The other side affect is Boredom. This is an AMAZING field of work we are in – Keep Learning-

Bosses, I’d love to say these rules only apply to the staff- but – look into yourself and what you are making examples of. Are you going to classes- Are you finding time to INSPIRE Set the example of WHAT you want WORKING in the salon.

Make sure you are giving PRAISE in PUBLIC AND COUSELING IN PRIVATE. After all – YOU ALL are setting the bar for your own business.

Have better Attitudes- Charge Accordingly-Never stop the education.

Heather Ryan

Salon Owner of #HairLoftonLinden

Owner of #BookPressed.com

#HighVolumeSalon #SalonNews #SalonChanges #SalonOwner #SalonBusiness #WhackedSalonAdventures

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Hairdresser Social Media Stresses!

There are, of course, beautiful sides to any social platform. How this loaded information gets strained through is another matter.

Gone are the days of having to show up in a classroom to get the hands-on experience you’d need to perform a more advanced task. We now have Google, Instagram, and Youtube to show licensed hairdressers how to perform straighteners- perms- and double processes. The stress begins with this education not being barred from the weekend hair warriors. As far as anyone is concerned, if you can watch it – you can do it.

We need more than ever to pay attention to the education being delivered and who is pushing said advice. For the younger stylist launching into our field, the only requirement to get advice is that you and your model must be pretty. And for the older stylists, we are trying to find the real artists through the haze of wanna Be’s.

These are my top three most significant problems with Social Media knowledge.  

1.)   Stolen Valor ( my personal pet peeve 🙄)

2.)   The wrong education in the wrong hands

3.)   The marketing launch

Stolen Valor is particularly one of the most prominent problems stylists have these days. Owning a shop does not make you a Master of anything. Yet, I often see master stylist – master colorist- master blah blah blah stamped multiple times on bios in any given salons website.

My advice – IF you have ‘Master’ anything listed on your BIO, and you have not earned it – take it down immediately. Invest in Vidal- get the courses. THEN you may say you are Vidal qualified. Earn IT. Watching one class online does not make you Vidal certified. This advice goes for ANY qualification you have listed. Instead, I offer you a simple fix – jot down – ‘I am currently working on getting more certification in the field of blah blah blah.’ Do not belittle someone else’s hard-earned education and money put into it TO get that permission to say it for real. In other words, do not try to be something you are not.

Wrong education in the wrong hands is another worrisome subject. It all begins with the push for girls/guys to be seen and heard. I am not the only hairdresser who has had to suffer through a terrible video of a non-licensed hair guru teaching me How to double process. Hairdressers are not the only ones looking for coloring advice- so is the public. We cannot stop the ever-growing wanna Bes stylists out there –

My advice, get involved with your staff and have meetings on this subject. Sit down with your team, go over WHO they are following, and see if your staff is getting the wrong advice.

I do need to note here- there is of course a great possibility your staff can show you owners something new and noteworthy!

The marketing Launch- again, everybody wants to be the pretty face for the product, and all the young stylists want to be that pretty face. For the marketing side, this type of social media is just the sort of launch pad they need to launch their unknown products. These newer products may need to be more chemically compatible with our chemicals. A horrible side effect is always a significant concern for us stylists, so don’t be fooled by a market slather.

In closing, be aware of social media scams – propaganda and knowledge. For your older stylist with some background in hair and marketing, make sure you are teaching your staff about the pitfalls encroaching on our professional arena. Have a meeting – ask each girl to write two – third person bios. One on their current qualifications and another on what they wish it would read. Helping them achieve their goal is an excellent way for you to connect with your staff and keep them from making huge mistakes.  

Salon Owner Heather Lea Ryan

Owner of BookPressed™ WWW.BOOKPRESSED.COM

#SocialMediaInSalons #TeachingBetter #HairdressingAdvice #HairLoftOnLinden #BookPressed #ThinkSmarter #SalonManagement #SalonOwners #SalonBusiness

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Change is Inevitable

I don’t know who needs to hear this information, but here it is.
Nothing is forever~
Change is the only constant, yet it is the hardest thing to accept.

*Nothing can stay the same while every day is different.

Way back in the 90s – I was working in a salon on Long Island, New York. I loved working there; I loved all of it. The atmosphere was alive and buzzing with clients’; the phones never stopped ringing, and walk-ins to the point of standing room only.
A smile drapes my face when I reflect on how fun hairdressing was in that shop. If memory serves me correctly there wasn’t any drama. My Boss was incredible, her sister was creative, and her cousin, meh, was ok. Our front desk girl was definitely on some pill or powder at any given time, but she knew how to work our schedules.
Those were the days. And then I blew it- I left.
So why did I quit? Honestly, it wasn’t so much the shop as it was the relationship I was in. My cool Boss was kind and supportive when I said I needed a job closer to home.
Looking back -I tried to change everything but myself, and by doing so – I lost that Cool shop by leaving it for another shop. I thought all shops would be the same crazy busy. I’d get my assistant back- the phone would be ringing – but no- it was a huge letdown.
I would have gone back to that excellent salon. I left on great terms, but I was out of the relationship and moving to a different state, so off to find another salon I went.
It was the beginning of my understanding that finding another shoe (shop) that fit me would be challenging.
Two things I hope you caught there.
I would have gone back to that shop… and not every shop is the same.
First – If you want change-
You will get change-
Second – Never leave a job on bad terms – try not to burn bridges.

Hairdressers, when considering leaving a job, there are three no’s.
Never cause chaos to justify why you want to leave.
Don’t recruit others in the same shop because of spitefulness or your insecurities about being the only one to go, and finally leave in a way that you could be welcomed back. No one likes a scene.

Bosses have just as big of a role to play in changing the guard/stylist. Understand How you react to a stylist leaving your salon is a big deal. No doubt your feelings were hurt, or maybe not, but other stylists are watching how you handle the situation. Handle it with a behavior in keeping good taste and propriety. When you began your journey as an owner, you knew that people would come and go. For every girl/guy leaving, there will be another artist new or old who is so excited to get the chance to work in your shop. People/ stylists/ you name it, change constantly.
The point of this article is to let you know this business is no different than any other. You work for your money and go home and have a life. Our business is about producing visible changes that represent our talent. Our talent is not just subjected to our art but also our attitude.
So Bosses be ok with change. It won’t kill you, and stylists stay professional.

Salon Owner -Owner of Bookpressed.com – Heather Lea

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