It's probably happened to each of us. You might have been disappointed by what the hairdresser did to your hair, and you could barely hold back your tears. But what can you say to the hairdresser about the haircut if you absolutely don't like it? How can you avoid offending the hairdresser?
ContentWhat to tell your hairdresser about a haircut if you don't like it: don't delayDon't express your dissatisfaction behind their backWhat to tell your hairdresser about a haircut if you don't like it: be calm and politeFocus on the job, not on personal criticismWhat to tell your hairdresser about a haircut if you don't like it: work on a better solutionAlways ask for advice
Most people smile and lie in such cases that everything is fine. But WomanEL asks you to never do that. According to professionals, you can honestly tell your hairdresser if something is wrong. And here's how to do it right:
What to tell a hairdresser about a haircut if you don't like it: don't delay
Whatever you didn't do, don't wait until the end of the meeting to express your frustration. As soon as you notice that things aren't going the way you'd like, say so right away.
“It’s usually easier to fix a mistake once it’s happened, so we recommend saying something as soon as you notice it,” says eyelash extension artist Michelle Nguyen. “It can be a little awkward. But it’s much better and easier than waiting until the end of the appointment when there’s no time to fix it.”
This applies to all types of appointments, adds hairstylist MariLynn Cosmillo. If your hair isn't short enough or you don't like the cut, let your stylist know before they blow-dry it. If you don't like the color of your nail polish, say so before all 10 nails are painted.
Don't express your opinion discontent behind the back
Always try to speak directly to the stylist performing your service, not to other people in the salon. The only caveat is if you don’t feel safe or comfortable with your stylist. Or if you’ve communicated your preferences and they still aren’t happy.
“Don’t be afraid to speak directly to your stylist. Don’t go to anyone else in the salon and talk behind their back,” advises hairstylist Chaz Dean. “We value and want you to always speak openly so that you leave happy and wanting to come back again.”
Nguyen adds that most professionals would also prefer you to speak to them in person rather than leave bad reviews.
What to say to a hairdresser about a haircut if you don't like it: be calm and polite
We know, we know. It can be very awkward to express your frustration. But staying calm and kind, and clearly stating what you don’t like, is essential.
“Most stylists can read your facial expressions or reactions. But they can’t read your thoughts,” says Cosmillo. “Take a breath and respectfully state what you don’t like and how you’d like it to look, so they or another stylist can help you fix it.”
If it helps, know that you’re not the first person to be unhappy with something, and that all professionals expect and welcome feedback during the process. “Very often, clients express their opinions,” says Cosmillo. Many professionals ask questions throughout the process. Consider these moments as an opportunity to speak honestly.
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Focus on the work, not on personal criticism
Speak out about the master's work and do not criticize him personally, Source: freepik.com
When a barista makes a mistake when ordering your drink, you’re expressing your dissatisfaction with the drink itself, not the person who made it. Take the same approach when receiving service at a beauty salon.
“Don’t be rude and get personal,” says Nguyen. “Maybe the barber isn’t very experienced or he’s not having the best day today and he wasn’t able to do his job properly. But that’s not an excuse to get down on him. So instead of insulting him, it’s better to discuss his work and how you would like him to continue working.”
She adds that some people may not take any feedback well. But that shouldn't discourage you from expressing your opinion. As long as you're kind and don't offend them, it's okay. After all, you are paying for a service, so the end result should be what you paid for.
What to Tell Your Hairstylist About a Haircut You Don't Like: Work on a Better Solution
Your first instinct may be to immediately demand a refund, but that doesn't always make sense. Instead, the professional will usually offer to redo the job to achieve the desired results. Situations where a refund is warranted include damage, unsatisfactory results after going to a professional, or a strained relationship where you no longer want to work with that professional.
“If you and your stylist have agreed on what can be done, you’ve spoken up to give them a chance to fix it, but you’re still unhappy, ask to have the issue resolved at the front desk,” says Cosmillo. “Maybe your stylist wasn’t able to do everything you wanted. But someone else can. In that case, it’s time to get your hair done again.”
In some cases, a refund may be the best solution so you can go to another salon and have the situation rectified. However, each salon has its own rules regarding this. So don't be offended if you are denied a refund.
Always ask for a consultation
It is very important to prevent your meeting from going badly. Hair extension artist Angelina Murphy says it’s important to get the stylist and client on the same page from the start.
“I try to have clients communicate their preferences during the consultation. It sets the stage for a successful outcome,” she says. “Take the time at this stage to discuss inspiration and realistic expectations – this is key to achieving the desired result. When expressing your thoughts, refer to photos. This will help convey your desires and avoid disappointment later.”
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