She was recommended by a colleague, who has longer hair. About two weeks ago, my colleague emerged from the salon with a great cut and low-lights. Even better? The cost -- $60.
Mine? $90!
!!!
Did I mention that I had all-over color, which is easier for a stylist than low-lights? Did I mention that she had terrible communication skills, barely making small talk after I initiated it and spending most of the time talking to another stylist who was hanging out in her booth? Did I mention that she practically ripped my tangly hair out while combing it? Did I mention that she probably should have used an extra bottle of color but didn't?
After leaving the salon, I texted my colleague, asking her again how much she paid for her cut and color two weeks ago. Had I misheard?
Nope.
I don't understand what happened. Why did I get charged so much?
I certainly wasn't wearing jewelry or clothing to anything to indicate I had money. Today was casual Thursday -- no interviews so I wore a pair of trousers and a collared shirt.
The only plausible answers -- she returned today after time off for kidney stones surgery, maybe she was distracted. Or, agism: The stylist is 21. My colleague is 25 and I'm 33 but someone once told me I looked quite a bit older. Let's pretend I look 37. Maybe she just assumed because I'm old that I have more money.
???
At the register, the stylist never gave me a card. So maybe she didn't want my business.
I'd like to call the owner and complain. Or I'd like to write a letter. But, of course, I've interviewed the owner for a previous story and would feel uncomfortable if the owner disciplined the stylist for fear of what I could or could not write.
The only consolation is that $90 is the average for a cut and color. Probably the low end of the average.
And while she didn't do anything spectacular with the cut, she didn't screw it up, either.
I think it's okay to address it. But like we tell people who complain about us, start local. Go to the person who upset you, not the owner. Be nice. And explain that it cost her what could have become a very good customer.
ReplyDeleteIn many salons the stylists rent a booth from the owner, so they are actually self-employed. So I don't know if complaining to the owner would do much good. Perhaps she thought she could get more money from you, but she has lost your business for good. Especially if she is self-employed, that was a stupid move on her part. Frankly, I don't think you look that old. But I am always glad not to have to make conversation - I like to shut my eyes and relax while they work on my hair.
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