they’re a photographer since the advent of the smart phone, but of course, we’re not! Be excited to see their photos and always compliment some element in it---hopefully the cut itself! However, make sure there’s good lighting, that there is not a messy station in the background, that the shot didn’t include the stylist’s own shoe, or anything else aberrant to the photo. Thankfully, editing tools are free and easy-to-use; chances are your Gen Z employees will already know how to use them. Be supportive of this very natural part of life for them; “they” say that if it doesn’t show up on Instagram, it didn’t happen! Consider investing in a ring light, soft box or umbrella light for the salon as another way to show your support---and guarantee good pictures. Show the Gen Z that much encouragement and they’ll be sure to hear your old-school never-fail suggestions for growing their client base, like the importance of bringing models in for critique of their technics, and of course, word of mouth. As we learned above, let them bring their new marketing ideas to you even as you encourage they continue your own tried and true methods.
Trust and autonomy go hand in hand, so do allow your Gen Z employees to take photos of clients’ hair and post on social. Of course, make sure they get the clients’ permission. An oral approval is sufficient; no need to create a contract. They will probably naturally do so, but make sure the stylists “pump up” the client when asking to take photos, telling them how great their hair looks and acting appropriately appreciative of the quality of their hair, not just what the stylist has done. They can take a few quick photos so they client will feel comfortable with how gorgeous their hair will look in the post. Some clients may even want to be tagged and/or post the photo themselves. Posting on their own should be encouraged; that’s modern day word-of-mouth marketing as they will have a different audience/following than your salon or your stylist. As Alberto says, some new stylists will be so confident in both their work and social media as a marketing tool that they’ll think developing a platform is what they need to develop their book. Ask to see their photos before they post them; you have a right to since they’ll be representing your salon as much, if not more, than their own skills. They say everyone thinks The takeaway Gen Z’s perception of beauty might be a wonderful lesson for Baby Boomer, Gen X, and Millennials. For decades, our culture has perceived beauty treatments and practices as a way to make ourselves appealing for potential partners. Gen Z perceives beauty as coming from inner confidence, surety in the self, authenticity. This might be best epitomized by their love of skin care over make-up. Gen Z is willing, able and ready to work hard. Making their experience enjoyable is not that difficult, as long as trust, appreciation, flexibility, and personal interaction are part of the job. Maybe that’s another lesson for the earlier generations: employees are individuals but together, we can be awesome.
WORKS CITED https://qr2.mobi/salons-genz
EliteLearning.com/Cosmetology
Book Code: NTNC0826
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