Years ago, there might have been one or two hair stylists in smaller towns. People went to the same one, and no one needed to market themselves or prove their worth. With so many hairstylist choices available, it is essential to stand out from the crowd, and there are a few ways to do that.

 

What are the Tips to Becoming a Successful Hairstylist?

Here are the tips to becoming a more relevant and successful hairstylist.

Tip #1: Foundational Skills

Any success requires a strong foundation that you can get from Meridian College, so start with a solid grasp of your technical skills and build off that. You’ll have the education you need to cut hair, style, and color, but there are always new colorist and hairstyle trends to embrace.

Tip #2: Embrace What Makes You Different

Being unique means customizing your work into something different from others. Always network with hairstylists and do your research to learn the latest trends or what is popular in hair and color. Trends change, and being one of the first in your area to offer that service is undeniable.

One idea is to watch YouTube videos on hair and color trends. If you are comfortable with something you see and your skill level is competent, try it yourself. Then, showcase the results online so potential clients will be intrigued. Even if someone doesn’t want that particular style, they will still see you as a pioneer in styling and feel that you have skills.

There is a saying from an Olympic Gold Medalist who asks, if there are a bunch of athletes with the same training, habits, and skill level, what makes one win the Gold Medal? The answer was their flare and originality.

Tip #3: Attendance is Suggested

Attend trade shows. Trade shows allow you to network with others, learn about the newest trends, and get product discounts. Many of these products are fresh colors or tools that help you work easier, like the latest flat iron or shears.

Tip #4: Hone Your Marketing Skills

We’ll get to word of mouth shortly, but marketing in today’s social networking atmosphere is imperative. There are plenty of ways to take advantage of social media, such as:

• Posting before and after photos of your clients after you have performed your magic
• Post about what you have going on, like the latest style you have done or a bold new color that everyone is talking about
• Share specials that people can take advantage of
• Share reviews from happy clients
• Have referral discounts – if a client refers a new customer to you, they get a special deal

Use avenues available to you, such as TikTok, Instagram, and X. Some hairstylists even go as far as to post on free forums or on places like Craigslist, where you can offer your services.

As mentioned, word of mouth is crucial. Ask your clients to share their experiences and tell all of their friends on social media.

Tip #5: Share Your Work

Create a portfolio of your work and have it in the waiting room wherever you work so that clients can look at what you offer. Another good idea is to have a portfolio website. With social media marketing, you need a place where clients can see more. Even if you have a TikTok profile, you can do even more customization with a website – and even those are free to create, so you are spending less money. Don’t discount the power of a good, professional site, but starting small is fine.

Tip #6: Flexibility

Sometimes, even the best days can take a turn with the wrong client. However, being flexible is important—not only to retain that client but also for your own peace of mind. If a client is late, try to accommodate them while keeping your own boundaries. A few minutes late may set you back, but there may be a perfectly good reason for their tardiness, and being kind and understanding is a key element in keeping that client happy.

Demanding clients happen, but how you handle them can make them repeat customers or people who go elsewhere. Try to ensure that your customer service skills are friendly and warm even to those who are sometimes different in return.

Tip #7: Furthering Education

Continuing your education has a wealth of benefits. Not only are you able to sharpen your current skills, but you also have the opportunity to learn new techniques. With a constantly changing industry, learn proper technique at Meridian College and get information and knowledge of the latest products and developments.

Final Thoughts

Being the best stylist is a balance between marketing, core skills, education, networking, and social skills. By combining all these elements, you will be much more successful in your craft.

Want to Learn More?

Are you ready to enjoy the many opportunities available in cosmetology? Meridian College offers a Cosmetology training program in Florida that prepares you to deliver high–quality beauty and hair services to both men and women. Their hands–on Cosmetology training program gives you the skills you need to start an exciting career and become a leader in the beauty industry.

Contact Meridian College today to learn more about becoming a cosmetologist.