There are many reasons why we may need to change salons or more specifically change hairdressers. For example, moving to a new city, or trying something new because our hairdresser of many years is in a stale or burnout mode. Whatever the reason, it happens and can be a mentally taxing event none the less.
Our hair is an integral part of our mental well being. Early on in my career I was considering a change, I was in a period of my life reflecting on the need to do something of great significance. I was driving past a new building that was under construction and a thought popped into my head. That building will stand there, for many decades, for the workers to marvel at their handiwork. In contrast, my hairstyles lasted 6-8 weeks, and then were so grown out they would be unrecognizable. I mentioned this to a good friend of my father’s. As I spoke to him, a sly smile came over his face. When I finished he quickly responded with a question, “Michael,” he began. “when you finish your work how does your client feel about their new look?” He then proceeded to remind me of a story I had previously relayed to him.
A newly divorced middle aged woman came in for a new image and a recently laid off young man was looking to change his look to a more professional image in his highly competitive field. When both were finished their confidence was to difficult to hide and they were on their way to the mall for a clothing makeover with a special gait in their step. John reminded me that it was my job was to create that special feeling. I have never forgotten that conversation and it has been 30 plus years ago. Thank you John! Thank you too Dad!
Now on to the advice part.
When a client moves to a new city ask your current hairdresser for their recommendation if possible. Do they know someone or heard of someone really good in their new location? Be sure to exercise due diligence, recon the salon suggested, and watch they people entering and leaving. Is this the look you are after? Are they happy or grouchy? Is the salon appearance up to date? Are the staff appearances up to date or out of date?
Next step….
Book a consultation. A great hairdresser will listen to your requests and inquire about your career and lifestyle, and then make suggestions for a change of style. They will respectfully disagree if they believe a better look is more suitable, but will always be the expert and exude a humble confidence in their suggestions. Another idea is to compliment a stranger whose hair you admire, and ask for their recommendation for their service provider. A check in with Citysearch.com and the Better Business Bureau are also excellent sources of information. Rochester is a city of diverse talent with many salons especially on Monroe Avenue. So you, the client, are in the driver’s seat.
I hope this information helps make your selection the right one. More importantly, if you have a stylist that you have been loyal to for many years and find they are not listening to you anymore, tell them! Ask them when was the last educational event they attended that blew their socks off! Did they get inspiration and new ideas? Give them the opportunity to make you happy again. And if not…
Happy Journey!
Chao!
Michael Spitale