If you ever left a hair salon thinking, “This isn't what asked the stylist to do,” then you understand to some degree the importance of effective communication in the salon. It means the difference between happy and dissatisfied clients and empty or full appointment books.

Types

For a salon to run smoothly, good communication needs to exist between the front desk staff and each stylist, among the stylists, between the stylists and their clients -- and the salon's management must effectively communicate with everyone.

Significance

A hairstylist may think that his talent with the scissors or hair color is his key to success; however, only 15 percent of a salon professional's financial success is based on technical abilities, according to Susie Field Carder in her book, “Passion: A Salon Professional’s Handbook for Building a Successful Business.” A client will not continue to return to a salon or a hairstylist who does not understand her wants and needs.

Methods

Salon managers often implement weekly staff meetings to encourage team members to express their concerns and make recommendations. They may also implement a system of written communication between the front desk and stylists that informs each stylist of schedule changes and client requests. By asking their clients skillful questions, stylists can evaluate each client's lifestyle and get a thorough understanding of his expectations.