Tab Salzman, a seasoned hair stylist with 16 years of experience, shares his journey and insights into the hairdressing industry. Tab’s career began unexpectedly when he found joy in styling his girlfriend’s hair for Halloween. His talent and passion led him to receive job offers from prestigious salons like Vidal Sassoon and Tony & Guy, akin to being accepted at Harvard or Yale.
Tab chose Tony & Guy, drawn to their ethos of challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries. His approach to hairdressing is intellectual, questioning if things always have to be done the way they’ve always been done. This mindset has influenced many, including Andrew, another hair stylist who cites Tab as his greatest influence.
How Service Affects Your Pricing Strategy
One of the key lessons Tab shares is the importance of delivering consistent, high-quality service. He emphasizes that a stylist is only as good as their last haircut. To maintain this standard, he suggests treating every consultation as if it’s the first, asking questions about the client’s preferences and expectations each time. This approach ensures that the service provided meets the client’s needs and avoids any potential misunderstandings or disappointments.
Tab also highlights the importance of professionalism, punctuality, and being present for the client. He notes that many stylists struggle with discussing prices with clients, but he encourages them to overcome this fear. He believes that clients expect to pay for good service and that stylists should not shy away from discussing prices or recommending products.
In terms of pricing, Tab suggests a salon stylist pricing strategy where stylists should consider raising their prices when their schedules become fully booked and they find themselves overworked. He recommends increasing the price to include the typical tip amount, as clients are already accustomed to paying this total.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for hairstylists and cosmetologists in 2021 was $29,680 per year or $14.27 per hour. The employment of barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Key Takeaways
Consistency is Key: Delivering consistent, high-quality service is crucial in the hairdressing industry. Treat every consultation as if it’s the first to ensure you meet the client’s needs and expectations.
Professionalism Matters: Punctuality, presence, and open discussions about pricing are important aspects of professionalism in hairdressing.
Salon Stylist Pricing Strategy: Consider raising prices when your schedule is fully booked and you find yourself overworked. Including the typical tip amount in the price can make the transition smoother for clients.
Diversify Your Income: Tab’s line of bags is an example of how hair stylists can diversify their income. Consider other products or services you could offer to your clients.
Click here to watch: https://youtu.be/K7ZU0PMjLTw
