What’s the best way to display your work to clients looking for inspiration?

Shannon Stickman

“Social media has been an excellent venue for us,” says Shannon Stickman, co-owner of Seven Salon in Omaha, Nebraska. “We post photographs from our current collections, celebrity fashions, and images from recent shows we’ve done. Our team is encouraged to have their own ‘professional’ pages showcasing their work. It isn’t about posting that you have availability or openings as much as it is about showing what you are doing on a daily basis in the salon.

“If a salon professional does something incredible, post the image from it and give them credit. This helps build recognition, moral, trust and clientele. Corresponding with our fans who have ‘liked’ the salon page is key. We are able to communicate our specials, deals and monthly retail focuses in a free and timely manner.

We switch over to Twitter while watching an awards show to tweet thoughts and opinions about the fashions shown, establishing us as a fashion authority. We also have regular photo shoots and use the images in ads we run in the local magazine. Those ads also become our social media profi le image.”

“We post photographs from our current collections, celebrity fashions and images from recent shows we’ve done.”, Shannon Stickman

Sherri Jessee

“In the age of digital cameras and social networking, it’s now possible for stylists to share their work with their clients virtually as it’s happening,” says Sherri Jessee, Rusk hair stylist and owner of Sherri’s Hair Salon in Bristol, Virginia. “Always have your camera on hand and (with the client’s permission) snap photos of before and after looks. Take shots of your work from all different angles. This is a great way to see how the shape, color and texture read in print, which will translate to a beautiful look in person.

“I suggest stylists keep both personal and professional portfolios. The looks you don’t absolutely love go into your personal portfolio in order to learn from them and to document your progress. Your professional portfolio will consist of your favorite images. These photos can be posted on social media sites and your blog for clients and potential clients to view. These amazing free tools can showcase your talents and inspire your clients.

“By using these networks, your clients will see the types of styles you can create and explore your talent further. Always present yourself in a positive manner and show only your best work. You can also use Facebook to share exciting information concerning salon specials and classes you are attending to keep your skills sharp and in tune with the latest trends.”

“Take shots of your work from all different angles. This is a great way to see how the shape, color and texture read in print, which will translate to a beautiful look in person.”— Sherri Jessee

Peg Cribari

“I believe clients can be your best advertising, and by nurturing solid, confi dent relationships with them, you will not only establish a long-term loyal client, but they will praise your work and services to others,” says Peg Cribari, co-owner of Salon Three Thirty in Dallas, Texas.

“Regularly seek out advanced training to hone techniques that set you apart from the norm. This builds confi dence in the services you provide. Additionally, practice solid communication by having a consultation with your client prior to shampooing. Working within the parameters of these characteristics, combined with the client’s sense of fashion and lifestyle, you will create a custom cut and style for each individual.

“Even after 30 years in the business, I practice this every day. So many things can affect the hair like weather and medications, so it is important to ‘interview’ clients on an ongoing basis. If you work in a departmentalized salon and practice team consultations, the colorist can then customize the color to the cut.

“When a client has confi dence in you and is inspired by your work, they will have confi dence to refer their friends to you, which will most certainly lead to success!”

“Regularly seek out advanced training to hone techniques that set you apart from the norm. This builds confi dence in the services you provide.” —Peg Cribari