Issue link: https://www.ahpindiestylist.com/i/1380995
You must be strong and direct when explaining that being a hairstylist is how you make a living. • Avoid the energy suckers. We are in this industry because we care. You may have a client—or perhaps multiple clients—who is really down on their luck right now. Let's say a client needs a ride to the dentist for a procedure. It is perfectly fine to help them. Besides, what life is worth living if we can't help out a fellow human? But let's say this friend is constantly asking for your help or making bad choices that have a negative effect. Now may be the time to ask yourself how much energy you have to give this friend and what the friend is giving back. FAMILY This area of boundary setting seems to be the hardest to deal with for many independent stylists. Do you have a large family that shows up only to get free services? Let's recap possible family situations. • The second cousin twice removed. This is the family member who only comes to "hang out" when they need their hair done. In this case, do the same thing you'd do to a friend who you know is using you. Tell them they have to make an appointment and explain your prices and cancellation policy. • The crybaby. You're so sweet, and they know it! They come in, tell you their sob stories, and expect a free service every time. Again, you must be strong and direct when explaining that being a hairstylist is how you make a living. • The rule breaker. Do you have that family member who can only get their hair done beyond your normal hours? She booked an all-over color, but when she arrives it's a corrective color. All the hard work and hours it takes to fix the last stylist's mistakes—and she leaves only paying you for an all-over color, not the cost for the corrective color she received. You can nip all this in the bud by stating your set work hours before she books the appointment, and then state the price for the service before she opens her wallet. CONTROL YOUR DESTINY Remember, you are in charge of you—your schedule, your prices, your policies. Blunt conversations with friends and families can be difficult, but they are absolutely necessary to maintain your boundaries. Letting others dictate your business results in resentment, and eventually, burnout. Take charge of your business and your life! Be the fox I know you can be. Tips to Outfox Even the Slyest Fox If you have clients who don't respect boundaries, it can really wear on your sweet, timid side. Well, it's time to be a fox and put some sly tips in your pocket. Here are some surefire ways to keep your sweet bunny side protected—and learn to walk on the wild side! • Know your set price for family and friends. Create a price list or offer a percentage off each service. • Do not discount clients who become friends. They were paying for your services prior, and they can pay now. • Don't offer any days or times beyond your normal schedule. That just sets a precedent that's difficult to change. You should be able to fit them in your regular schedule, even if they have to wait a few weeks. (That will also encourage them to book at the end of their appointment!) • Text the cost of the service, along with what payments you accept, as well as your cancellation/late fees. • If you are absolutely sure you want to give a friend or family a free service, direct it toward a gift. For instance, you can give a free birthday haircut, but tell them the usual price, and let them know you are only offering it as a one-time gift. N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 93 amy tran/unsplash