When it comes to hairdressing business and creativity, we take the opportunity to learn whenever we can from global hair legend Akin Konizi, whose illustrious career, experience and insights offer excellent perspective. The creative director for HOB Academy and multi-award winning British hairdresser has now given his directives for breaking bad salon habits, offering hairdressers the chance to identify them and reset with his expertise. It couldn’t come at a better time as we move through the challenges of 2020 and look ahead to 2021.
“Not all habits are bad, but those that are tend to stem from boredom or stress,” Akin said. “Bad habits may seem harmless, but they can affect the way you work, the quality of your work and the respect you get from clients and your team. Identifying your bad habits is the first step, and breaking them isn’t as hard as you think. 2020 has been a year of reflection and it’s the perfect chance to break those habits and replace them with ones that will make you a better hairdresser.”
Akin identifies the first bad habit as boredom as recommends hairdressers replace this with renewed vigour. “Being bored is the biggest habit to break. Think about why you are bored – it’s often because what you do has become repetitive. Try to work ‘consciously’ rather than just going through the motions,” he advised.
The second bad habit can be shunning responsibility when we should instead be culpable. “We all need to be responsible for what we do, from the decisions we make to the hairstyles we create. Take responsibility for what you are creating and that will encourage your development,” Akin said.
A third salon bad habit can be staffroom breaks, often spent on time wasting when the they can be spent so much more richly for motivated business owners by being out in the salon.
“Sitting in the staffroom on your phone is such a waste of time, scrolling through gossip sites and general rubbish on social media,” Akin said. “Because of social distancing it can be hard to be out on the floor, but use your free time with your team, watching what they are doing, have conversations with clients and team members.”
Akin lists another bad habit as lack of communication, instead advising to share your expertise. “Never ask your client ‘what are we doing today?’ You’re the expert, inspire your clients! They are visiting you for the benefit of your
expertise, your knowledge and your advice. Ask open questions about how they feel about their hair, make recommendations and explain why you’ve made those recommendations, ultimately reaching an agreement between you both.”
Lastly, Akin lists the habit of falling back on clipper use as a bad habit, saying to reach for the scissors instead. “Don’t be tempted to use the clippers just because they’re quick and easy. Keep prioritising your scissor-over-comb skills; it develops your scissor action and opens up a world of cutting opportunities.”
Let’s start breaking bad habits and being the best versions of our salon selves for 2021!
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