How to tell someone you aren't the stylist for them
When someone wants to book with you but they aren't your ideal client, or you don't specialize in what they're asking for, what do you say?
Finding the right words in this type of situation can be challenging. So here's what I would say:
"What you're wanting is something that's a little bit out of my range of expertise. I don't know that I'm the stylist best suited to give you the look you're wanting. I would love to refer you to my coworker ____ who specializes in what you're looking for! Here is their contact info: _____."
-OR-
"What you're wanting is something that's a little bit out of my range of expertise so because of that I don't know that I'm the stylist best suited to give you the look you're wanting. I'm sorry we didn't get the chance to work together but I really wish you the best on your hair journey."
-OR-
"Based on what you've showed me and told me, I don't think I'm the best stylist to create your hair goal. I focus more on (whatever you specialize in) and I think you'd be better suited with someone who focuses on (whatever they're after). Thank you so much for understanding and I wish you all the best!"
I want to make a note here: Do I think when you’re trying to build a clientele that it’s necessarily smart to be turning people away because they don’t fit into a box of your “ideal” client? No, not necessarily. And do I think that taking literally any and every type of color or cut (within reason 😅) that inquired with me really helped me to become a better stylist and get better and feel more confident? Yes. So please bear in mind that I’m not promoting being super pick-y and choose-y at all points in your career no matter what.
But perhaps you’ve come to a point in your career where you are getting very specific about the clients and services you take on. It can be awkward telling people that you aren’t the stylist for them, but hopefully this helps to offer a simple, non offensive way to let someone know that it’s just not a great fit.
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