Modern Manners: Remember these etiquette tips while at the salon

Non-verbal communication often speaks louder than words. Especially when we only have seven seconds to make a first impression. Second only to what we're wearing on our body, our hair plays a big role in our image, so good hair days should happen on the regular.

A famous actress once said, 'I think that the most important thing a woman can have — next to talent — is her hairdresser.' Having great hair and knowing how to achieve it with a stylist is only a few salon secrets away.

Tipping

Similar to dining out, a 15 percent to 20 percent tip is standard. Feel free to tip more for exceptional service. If more than one person assisted during the service, you may tip each person who assisted you. If possible, use cash for tipping. And always handle the tipping at the end of the service. Unless something went horribly wrong, a tip is an important gesture to the stylist.

Hair-raising issues

A salon is a business and they want to be successful. If something goes wrong, talk to the stylist. If that feels awkward, talk to the manager. As a service business that is 100 percent reliant on customers; salons and stylists want to make people happy. If you can't speak to someone the day of the service, call as soon as possible to fix the issue. And if you do complain, do so in a professional manner to get the same respect in return.

Broken-ends

Breaking up is hard to do — even when it comes to your hair. Most people face the hairstylist breakup at some point. Maybe it's due to bad service, scheduling issues or just needing something fresh. Regardless of the situation, never feel guilty about making a switch. Many of my stylist friends say they don't take it personally when a client leaves or makes a change. Hair is important to personal style and image. And it can be expensive. If you're not happy, make a change. And don't be scared about going back in the future, many clients often return.

Client behaviors

A 'no-show' hurts the stylist's bottom-line and takes away an open appointment for another client. If you can't make your appointment, cancel as soon as possible. If you're running late, call the salon and let them know. Once you're in the appointment, be specific and honest with your stylist. Saying, 'Do whatever you want,' is a dangerous statement for both the client and stylist. You must be able to articulate what you're wanting. Bring photos to help, especially for a big style change.

No-phone zone

Opinions differ on phone usage during a salon service. Some stylists don't mind phone calls during service. Others don't like disrupting the space or other clients. Overall, salons are meant to be relaxing. Try to embrace the downtime and put the phone away.

Hair therapy

Some people equate stylists to therapists, that you can tell them everything. Take the conversation as far as you'd like, but beware of oversharing — especially if you don't know the stylist well. Approach the salon chair conversation lightly if the stylists is heavy-handed with gossip. If they are gossiping about other clients, they will do the same about you.

Lauren M.G. Burt is a communications professional and etiquette adviser based in the Midwest. She believes in the importance of embracing etiquette and a return to civility. Contact her with questions or comments at features@sourcemedia.net.