Client Consultation
As with all hair services, consulting with your client prior to the
actual service will ensure predictable results and will help you avoid
any misunderstandings that may arise. Ensure client comfort by
performing your consultation in a private area. To avoid any false
color analysis, be sure the area is well lit, preferably in a room with
a window. Proper lighting in the hair color area of the salon is essen-
tial for accurate analysis, color selection, application and final eval-
uation. Keep in mind that incandescent lighting generally makes the hair appear warmer, while flu-
orescent lighting makes the hair appear cooler. To create a more natural light reflection, use fluores-
cent lighting that is balanced for daylight. Ultimately, only sunlight gives a true color reflection!
During your consultation, be sure to use a technique that is know as reflective listening.
Reflective
listening involves repeating what your client has said to you to avoid any misunderstand-
ings.
Also, using hair color swatches, magazines and pictures while consulting with your client will
help you reinforce the communication process and avoid misunderstandings.
To help you remember the important steps in the consultation process, remember:
G
reat
A
rtists
A
lways
D
raw
C
reatively. Just change your focus to your client's hair color.
G
reet
· Meet and greet the client with a firm handshake and a pleasant voice.
· Communicate to build rapport and develop a relationship with the client.
A
sk, Analyze, and Assess
· Ask questions to discover client's needs and past color services. For example, ask questions
such as, "What made you interested in a color service today?" Some responses may
include, "I'd like to look more trendy like that actress from the new television series," or
"I'd like to cover up my gray."
· Ask about clothing and lifestyle. Refer to Clothing and Lifestyle in the Design Decisions
chapter for guidelines.
· Ask your client whether he/she will be able to maintain the new color and make him/her
aware of the financial commitment.
· Analyze client's face, body shape, physical features, eye and skin tones. Refer to Consid-
erations for Design Decisions in the Design Decision chapter for guidelines. Keep in mind
that you can widen or lengthen face shapes with the proper placement of light and dark hair
colors.
· Analyze the porosity and condition of the hair. Remember, you always want to maintain
the best optimal condition of the hair.
· Assess the facts and thoroughly think through your recommendations. Use photos, mag-
azines and/or hair color swatches to better understand your client's desires. Don't be afraid
to let your client know if you are unable to perform a service. Remember, not all requests
are possible even on healthy hair.
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SALON FUNDAMENTALS
