Picking a Hair Salon

Tired of spending nearly one hundred dollars each time I had my hair cut, colored, and highlighted, I chose to go to a walk-in hair salon one Saturday, thinking that I would save a lot of money. Three hours and a bad haircut and color later, I would have gladly paid the extra money at my old salon to do the job right.

Picking a hair salon involves more than merely walking in and asking for a haircut. If you've a particular style and color in mind, then you need to perform a little research about the hair salon before plunking down in the stylist's chair. Here are some tips for picking a hair salon, and leaving happy:

• Check with your friends and peers and ask where they get their hair done. If you like the way they look, and if they give a favorable recommendation, it's a safe bet that you will be happy with the hair salon's services, too.
• Research all of the hair salons in your area, either online or from the phone book. Call the salon and ask to take a tour. If the manager won't let you schedule a time for a tour, then don't bother making an appointment for a haircut.
• When you do go into a salon to get a feel for it, check the cleanliness of the place. Are the shelves dusted? Do they offer hair products for sale? Is there a clean waiting area with adequate and comfortable seating? Is the floor clean and free of hair and products? Is the receptionist attentive when you walk in? All of these factors can help you determine if the salon will meet your expectations.
• Call a new salon and ask for a price list. A reputable salon will offer pricing upfront, without hesitation. If you go in person to determine pricing, a good salon manager will offer you discount coupons for services they offer. Find out if separate services require separate payment. Some salons charge for a shampoo in addition to the cut. You'll want to know all charges before making an appointment.

If you are happy with your cut and style after your first visit to a new salon, make sure that you tip your stylist generously. The stylist will be more apt to fit you in at the last minute for your next appointment, or spend more time with you if he knows that you will tip well. Resist the urge to talk badly about your old hair salon to your new stylist. Just as in other arenas of business, he may know your old stylist and might not like you speaking ill of his friend.