In the hairstyling industry, why clarity is so important is that it could affect your bottom line.  This is why

the first rule you are taught is to have a consultation. During the consultation, you are expected to ask the necessary questions to see if both of you agree on what is wanted.  Some factors that affect the outcome are:

• The client may have no idea what they want to have done, but know they need a change;
• Be shy because it is their first time at a salon;
• Just moved to the area and are nervous about changing stylists;
• Knows what they want but also wants to control how you will do it;
• Nervous when doing anything new;
• Price conscious;
• Wants confirmation they will look like a supermodel after the service. 

Even a seasoned hairstylist will tell there are many accidents that you avoid by doing a simple consultation.  After all, you have seen everything right?  When you get like this is when you are prone to making mistakes.  Here a few ways this can happen:

• On several occasions, clients asked to take 2-3 inches off the length of their hair.  Being the amazing stylist that I am, I ask them to indicate with their fingers what this means.  In almost all the instances, they space indicated between their fingers was ¼ of an inch! Hairstyling rule 101, use the scale on your cutting comb or let them show you on the actual hair, how much they actually want cut!.
• People from different cultures, countries use similar names for services that have no relevance to what they really want.  I have had people use the word “conditioning” when booking for a “relaxer” and are stunned when you tell them you have to change the price.
• Some cultures have a loose understanding when it comes to timekeeping and think going to a hair appointment can be 2-3 hours later than you agreed..  
• Some clients feel that bringing their product exempts them from paying for your time, technique and styling abilities when it comes to pricing.
• Many come from countries where haggling on the price is normal and they always want deep discounts.
• When choosing a particular hairstyle, try to have a shot of the back as well as the front, because a picture is worth a thousand words.  Many will bring a photo of the front of the haircut but have no idea what is at the back.