A hairstylist’s clientele is the bread and butter of their business. Sure, you can live on walk-ins (especially in a super busy location), but knowing that you have a solid clientele to fall back on will make things a whole lot better for you. But do you know how to build clientele as a hairstylist?
Speaking from experience, it can be pretty overwhelming to think about building a clientele, especially in the beginning. But luckily for you, I am going to supply you with five surefire tips to keep ’em coming back time after time.
Build Your Clientele With Social Networking
Fortunately, we live in the day and age where the whole world is at our fingertips. Millions of people spend their days checking Facebook every few minutes or browsing through Yelp reviews before visiting a business.
There’s a ton of power behind social networking to help build your clientele.
It’s a brilliant way to showcase your portfolio by posting pictures of your greatest work. You can always give incentives to check in at your salon with you and post pictures.
Furthermore, I’ve seen hairstylists post ads in the “free garage sales of the local area” type groups and get a ton of business through that. Another good idea is to offer your clients a 5$ discount (or whatever you want) if they review you on Yelp before they leave.
The list of possibilities is pretty endless, but social networking is definitely a must.
Business Cards
This might seem like a pretty redundant idea, but some people may not realize how important business cards are. Give each of your clients four cards and let them know that if they send in three new customers, they’ll get a free haircut.
Also, give these cards out like your business depends on it, which it kinda does. When you go out to dinner, leave your card with the tip.
Always keep a fresh supply handy because when you are out and about, and you mention that you do hair, people will want a card. Look into a unique design that will make you stand out from everyone else.
Be Yourself
I’ve learned that people feed off your energy. If you are nervous, they will be nervous. I mean, wouldn’t you be nervous having someone mess with your hair if they acted like they didn’t know what they were doing?
Believe me… people respond a whole lot better if you just come in, be fun, treat them like they’re your friend and be comfortable with them.
But do keep in mind that it is a fine line between comfortable and too comfortable. Remember that you are still running a business and you need to be professional at the same time.
Book Ahead
One of the best ways to keep your customers coming back to you is to talk them into booking their next appointment before they leave.
Then, have a reminder system set in place to make sure that they remember their appointment. Today, there is a lot of technology that will automatically send them a text or e-mail to remind them. Give it a shot.
When they leave, suggest that their color should be touched up in 4-6 weeks and ask them if they would like to book that appointment now. Many times, they’d rather just do it then instead of worrying about it later.
It can really help build your clientele.
Word of Mouth
THE best way to build your clientele is by word-of-mouth.
Happy customers will let others know that they should come to you if they want their hair to look as good as theirs. Also, if someone has a good haircut, people will ask them where they get it done.
Your customers are big walking billboards for your business. Treat them well, and they will reward you.
Your Turn: Did you enjoy this post? I’ll love you forever if you share it with your friends on your favorite social media website!
Did you already know how to build clientele as a hairstylist? Have you tried any of these tips? I’d love to read your feedback in the comments section below…
