Happy New Year Everyone,
I am writing to you from the brand new world of motherhood. 2007 was definitely a year of transitions and as I am at home experiencing the greatest life change to date, I can say I am truly happy and overwhelmed by the magic of this experience. As the owner of the lovely Haven Hair, my own personal transitions obviously have an effect on the business and this has been a year of great change for Haven as well.
Much like finding an awesome mascara or a mechanic you trust, finding a hair stylist with whom you connect and who gives you gorgeous hair every time can take a while. Once found, many clients will follow them anywhere and not want to let go. With both Amanda and I on maternity leave at the same time, many of you have found yourself having to make quite an adjustment and I would like to take a moment to speak to that.
First of all, thank you for your patience, trust and loyalty. Not only is it difficult for clients, but for us, your stylists as well. Although I am happy with my cute new baby, I do miss the creative expression, stimulating conversation and satisfaction of a job well done. The transition is easier for some of you than for others. We have all been doing everything we can to ensure that you're each completely taken care of, but that won't be the case for all of you.
Typically I consider it solely the stylists, not the client's responsibility to manage the communication in such a way that you end up being totally satisfied. But I have come up with some tips for you, the clients, to aid you in maximizing your experience at Haven and get all of your needs met. Here we go.
1. Your new stylist cannot be your old stylist: Since we are artists, we all have our own techniques for producing a particular result. Please try not to focus on the means to the end result. Instead, focus on how you want your hair to look at the end and make sure you're confident that the stylist understands, then trust (it's hard I know,) that their process will get you there. If a stylist tries to replicate someone else's technique against their better judgment, things will not end well.
2.Open yourself to new ideas: The best thing about a new stylist is their fresh look at your tresses. Over time, stylists and client's can get in ruts together. If you're expecting your new stylist to produce the exact same hair do as your old stylist, you will probably be disappointed. If, however, you're open to a slight cut or colour change, it'll be a whole new you. (I've seen some of you since one of the other girls have been doing your hair and I'll even admit, I've liked some of the new looks better than what I was doing!)
3. Ensure you're sharing meaning when communicating: What is an inch to you? What does brassy mean? Or copper? of volume? texture? light? dark? red? We all have internal definitions for our shared language, but not always shared meaning. Don't just assume that your stylist understands you, clarify. Use photos and describe what you see, use contrasting colours or looks to describe not only what you want, but what you don't want as well. Have your stylist repeat back to you what you've asked for in their own words and then tweak anything that doesn't quite feel right. It is our responsibility to get it right, but you can help us along.
4.State your needs: If you're unsure of what you want, let your stylist know that you need help figuring it out. Ask to be guided through a consultation. Start with what you don't want as that's usually easier. If you're looking for a change, but have concerns, express those concerns. Don't worry about taking too much time to consult for if you skip that step, it will take a lot longer to fix a hair disaster.
5.Speak up!: If something doesn't feel right or you don't like what your stylist is doing, let them know. Don't worry about making them feel uncomfortable or hurting their feelings. Our top priority is your satisfaction. If you're holding out on what you really think to protect your stylist, you're not doing them any favours. In many cases, all that's missing is communication. Many times you just need to know what's happening and where it's headed and that you're both on the same page.
Well that's it for me. I hope that helps. May 2008 find you all healthy and happy and looking superb!
