Mastering the art of a perfect colour consultation
Published
11th Feb 2011
by rachael
Carrying out a thorough consultation before a colour service is an essential part of your client's salon experience.
Here, Nathan Walker talks about the importance of getting a colour consultation right.
Nathan is the international technical director at Trevor Sorbie International, London. He holds a L'Oreal Colour Specialist Degree and is a member of the L'Oreal Portfolio Group of Artistic Directors.
"Colouring without a consultation is like a DIY makeover show where someone enters a home, paints everything, crosses their fingers and hopes the owner likes it. The consultation takes away the fear of colouring. It ensures both the client and the colourist knows what is happening and what the result will be. It builds both confidence and loyalty; the more you know, the more they believe you understand them.
"From a business point of view, the consultation is the best way of building your colour business. Once the client has taken the step of asking for help or advice, the consultation gives you the opportunity to use your expertise.
"Everything should be discussed in a colour consultation. If someone seems nervous, I ask: why? I enquire about previous experiences, and why they have come to me. I find out about their lifestyle and budget. I look at skin tone and their jewellery: if someone is wearing gold and rose gold, they are likely to have a warm skin tone; and those that opt for white gold, silver or platinum usually have a cool skin tone. Once their needs are identified, I can begin to give them clear expectations based on lifestyle, technique, and their current hair colour.
"A successful consultation leaves no margin for error. The two-way process of consultation is about you listening and then communicating your solution. In the time you mix the colour, there won't be any doubt, and your client will feel relaxed and confident."
Three top tips for a colour consultation.
1. Take your time.
2. Don't start out with too many possibilities, like showing the complete colour spectrum. Narrow the selection down, then the choice will be easier.
3. Use pictures: many clients find it an easy way to express the look they want.
