It’s high time you got a new hairstyle. So you’re here at the braider’s salon. You’ve endured the pain all along, but the style didn’t come out as you imagined. You probably kept mute all through because you don’t know how to communicate with your non-native English-speaking braider.
But being pretty should be fun, right? How can you effectively communicate with your non-native English braider without having an awkward situation?
WAYS TO DO IT
Pre-appointment stage
- Go for Personality and Skills
When searching for a braider, ask questions about personality too. Does she leave clients intimidated? Do conversations with her lead to arguments? Is she willing to adjust to the client’s preferences? If the answer to these questions is “no,” chances are that braider is not the right choice.
- Speak Slowly and Audibly
Low voice volume hinders the message you want to pass across to your non-native English braider. You must speak audibly. Avoid the use of complex words, unnecessary details, and the absence of a specific focus.
Use simple words and pronounce them slowly. Take your time to pronounce words individually. If you think the braider is confused, repeat the message slowly without being disrespectful.
- Describe Your Expectations Properly
Use the correct terms to describe the style you want. If you can’t, make sure you have pictures that do. You can then discuss any changes you would like to make. Avoid the use of slang and acronyms at all costs, as your braider might not be used to them.
- Avoid Wrong Body Language
Bad experiences with a braider may occasion body language such as scornful looks and angry faces, which interferes with the verbal message when talking to the same braider. This must be avoided. Wrong body language hinders communication because it incites a negative attitude from the listener. Friendly gestures like warm smiles make it easier for your ideas to get to the braider.
- Open Discussion
Ask her for advice about your choices. Show her your natural hair and ask if it can take the style. Be willing to listen to her professional advice. If you disagree with her, tell her so. This will ease the tension when you get what you asked for if her choices would have been better.
During Appointment
- Be Respectful
Disrespect impedes communication. Treating her with respect is the first step to effective communication. Putting yourself in her shoes by taking account of the cultural differences and language will help you talk and reply with respect.
- Begin with a Test Braid
Whichever style you chose, have a test braid done first. If it is not to your liking, this is the best time to tell your braider what details she may be missing. Changes can still be made at this point without any tension between both of you.
- Check the Progress in a Mirror.
Be sure the style is coming out just how you want it. If it is not, openly discuss it. You should give feedback during and not after the job.
- Be Open to Questions
Explain to your braider that you are open to questions if she gets confused any time during the appointment. Answer questions with a smile. This assurance builds the confidence needed to help you both achieve your goals.
- Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication
When necessary, exclaiming “ouch” or “Lighter please” can help the stylist adjust the pressure or the movement.
Body language such as a sudden twitch or the squinting of the eyes to show pain can help your braider know when to adjust even without you saying a word.
Note
Communication is only effective when you listen, understand, and reply. Simply waiting for your turn to speak will defeat the purpose of the communication. You must be patient enough to listen to the opinions of the stylist, but you can choose to either follow or reject the advice.
CONCLUSION
No good stylist likes to have unhappy customers. Communication will help you both achieve your goals. Try these tips!
