I just opened a new hair salon and I am hoping to hire great hair experts. What qualities should I be considering?

Question: I just opened a new hair salon and I am hoping to hire great hair experts. What qualities should I be considering?

Answer: Dear entrepreneur, Congratulations on your new hair salon! I wish you the very best.

First, let me start by quoting my father “My my my … How things have changed” When I started in the hair salon business, hair stylist were called barbers, beauticians or salon operators. Thank God that all that has changed. Today we have hair experts, hair gurus, and everything in between. Hair salon owners have now shifted from employer status to a sought of real estate agent making salon pads available to the stylist seeking to rent a space with out the intense liabilities of owning their own salon; not to mention the monetary responsibilities. Others have a combination of stylist working in their salons, those who rent their space and those who work on a commission bases. What ever your position, there are indeed some undeniable qualities that are timeless and coveted by all hair salon owners.

1. Attentiveness. The attentive stylist, especially the receptionist greets each client and is prepared to serve with promptness.
2. Enthusiasm. The enthusiastic stylist takes pride and joy in their work.
3. Initiative. The stylist with initiative knows what to do with out being told what to do.
4. Courtesy. The courteous stylist is considerate of other people’s feelings and is very cooperative.
5. Self control. The stylist who exercises self control tries to maintain a pleasant disposition in spite of trying circumstances.
6. Tact. The tactful stylist allows the client to feel that he or she is making their own decision, while guiding them in making the right beauty choice.
7. Responsible. The responsible stylist thrives to be punctual and prepared at all times. This is one of the most important qualities because it is a reflection of the standards of the salon.

It is important that you seek out people that will be an asset to your hair salon image. Cleanliness and good personal hygiene is a must. Don’t worry too much about their style of clothe, that will all work it self out.