Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1250436
32 indie stylist Volume 1 Issue 1 • Do you have your Barbicide certification? • Your area might limit how many people can be on the premises at a time. Do you have a plan for that? Have a Plan A, B, and C so you can shift depending on what local restrictions are and how they evolve. • Assuming restrictions allow for it, will you have an assistant to help you maximize your time? • Make sure you add time to your schedule to sanitize between clients. It's fine if they see you doing it—they will be reassured knowing you're looking out for them. • Be prepared for longer hours. • Schedule virtual consultations with your clients ahead of time. The basic version of Zoom is free and all your clients have to do is click a link in their email. Limit calls to 10–15 minutes. Advise them if you're doing express services to accommodate more clients. • Have your clients wash and blow dry at home. It saves a ton of time, allowing you to provide each client your highest quality service. • If you're doing a color consultation, let them know that your assessment might change once you see them in person. • Think about express T colors (where you do their parting and front hairline) as opposed to full-head foils, just until the rush calms down. • Be prepared! Watch videos on express haircuts and colors so your skills are current and you're ready for the fast lane. • Your salon should encourage physical distancing with one door for entering and another for leaving. • Keep conversation positive and hair related. Steer away from doom and gloom. I call it the politician pivot. "Speaking of the lockdown, your regrowth is longer than normal. I suggest we blur the base with a darker color, and next time we'll pick up your highlights," or "I know, everyone has been hoarding toilet paper. The good news is I have a full inventory of products that will keep your color looking fresher longer." WATER collection Hair: Chris Baran Color: Suzanne Sturm Makeup: Marie Laure Larrieu Styling: Jeremié Cote Photographer: Babak The reality is that we will lose some salons, and it won't be from a lack of clients. It will be from a lack of planning on how to deal with a flood of them.