[186] Common Phrases Losing you Money!
The Phrases That Are Quietly Costing You Money Behind the Chair
If you've ever ended a service with, “Let me know when you want to come back,” or hesitated to offer products because “they can grab it later if they want,”—you’re not alone. But these well-meaning phrases may be quietly costing you real money… and client loyalty.
Let’s talk about the three phrases hairstylists use all the time that actually push money away—and how to shift them so clients feel more supported (not sold to).
💬 PHRASE 1: “… Or you just call me when you’re ready!”
Rebooking discomfort is real. We don’t want to come off as pushy. But this phrase puts all the pressure on your client and lowers your chances of repeat business. Instead, say something like, “Let’s get your next visit locked in so you stay fresh—how does [X weeks] from now sound?”
💬 PHRASE 2: “… Or just use up what you have at home!!”
Stylists often fill space out of fear that silence means something’s wrong. But sometimes silence is just peace. If you're recommending a product or service and the client goes quiet, don't backtrack. Let the silence land. Confident pauses give your words more weight.
💬 PHRASE 3: “… Or we can just do it next time!”
We downplay services, skip retail, or undercharge—not because we don’t believe in our work, but because we’re afraid of how we’ll be perceived. Many stylists avoid “selling,” but the truth is: you’re not selling, you’re serving.
Hair stylists are caretakers. We lead with our hearts. But that same servant-heart energy can lead us to sell ourselves short.
Let’s reframe this:
💡 Sales isn’t pushing—it’s offering support.
💡 Your clients can’t benefit from what you don’t recommend.
💡 Options aren’t pressure—they’re respect.
Many of us have past salon experiences that turned us off to pushy sales tactics. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stand behind what you offer.
The #1 rule of sales? Love what you sell so much that you genuinely feel people are missing out if they don’t have it.
So ask yourself—are you using the products you recommend at home? Are you excited about what you offer? Your energy sets the tone, and clients mirror that.
And here’s the truth: most clients aren’t making practical decisions about haircare—they’re making emotional ones. Yet we often “mind their wallet” for them, deciding what they should spend without giving them the chance to choose.
Giving clients clear, confident options isn’t greedy—it’s generous.
You’re not here to push. You’re here to serve with clarity, confidence, and care.