Back in the salon with my clients - andrew

Last week was a lovely - but slightly manic - week for me because I spent three days in the salon working with clients. I love the variation of putting on a different hat each day and always having different challenges to face, but I enjoy my days in the salon over and above anything else. It is so rewarding and there is nothing like seeing clients with a big grin on their face when you finish - that smile is quite addictive and what my job is all about. At the moment, I am booked right up to August and when a client arrives at the salon they have often already got their next visit in eight weeks time booked. In between appointments with me, I recommend that they visit other colleagues in the salon, and it isn't unusual for me to only see some of my clients two or three times a year.What's great is that I am at a stage in my career where people come to see me as a makeover guru and tend to tell me to do whatever I think will suit them. I read one of the consumer magazines that called me 'the People's Hairdresser' and 10 Years Younger has certainly created the image that I am someone that people can trust. I am still a down-to-earth lad from Yorkshire so I try to tell them it as it is. As much as clients say 'do whatever you want', one thing I have learned is that is NEVER what they mean. They usually have an idea of what their dream hair would be and it is important that I create something that fits in with their lifestyle that they can maintain between visits. To achieve that it is absolutely crucial that you ask the right questions at the consultation. There is a lot of education and information out there about consultations, but the key thing I would say to any youngsters starting out or stylists wanting to improve their technique is that the key thing is listening, not talking. Good hairdressers ask open-ended questions to really get into their clients minds and if you want to be the best you can, you will need to learn to do that. Next week, I'm filming for 10 Years Younger, at the Saks Awards and going to the launch of my 'Shiny Happy Hair' range. I'll fill you in on all the gossip soon...