Nov 133 min read

Why People Love TikTok Hair Consultation Videos (And How to Do Them Right!)

the after of a happy client from a successful hair conculstion — Hair consultation

In your nightly scroll you've likely come across a video of a stylist consulting with their client. This trend has taken over our FYP and while this might seem like boring, everyday content for a stylist-- the reactions from viewers have been pretty surprising and educational. We're breaking down why people are so obsessed, how to create great consultation content for your own feed, and why quality consultations should be the backbone of your brand.

What Is a Hair Consultation Video?

Stylist Influencers film their consultation with their client pre-cut or color while they discuss what they came into the salon for, why it may or may not work with their hair type or face shape, and through that discussing, landing on a game plan they're comfortable with.

Above content: @lizalocks on TikTok

Seems mundane, so why are these videos trending like crazy? Simply put, because everyone has at one point or another left the salon with a cut or color they weren't happy with and a consultation like these could have prevented it. Stylists that make sure their client is informed and comfortable with the style you're creating together build trust and loyalty. That kind of relationship brings clients back again and again.

Below content: @jamesbusbyhair on TikTok

What Creates a Great Consultation Video?

If this is something you'd like to start adding to your social media feed, before you bust out a tripod and start recording-- ask yourself what goes into a quality consult that you'll want to cover with not only the clients you're filming, but every client?

Find Out What The Client Wants

Let them lead the conversation at the start and describe what they like or don't like about their current hair and check out any inspiration photos they want to reference. Ask any clarifying questions you need at this point, but don't interrupt and tell them it's not possible or what you would recommend instead.

Put It Into Perspective

This is where you can suggest adjustments, ask questions about how often they need to put their hair up, how frequently they'll need a bang trim or root touch-up appointment, etc. The key to this, as with all good bedside manor, is to be gentle and lead the client to their own conculsion. If you know your client is in hot pilates 5 days a week and will hate curtain bangs-- let her realize that for herself instead of shooting down the idea for her. And don't come in without a solution, for anything you think won't work, offer what would work instead.

Outline The Game Plan

Once you and your client have discussed all the options, go over the plan one more time in full detail to really solidify what you'll be doing and get the client's consent to proceed. This keeps you both on the same page after lots of ideas have been tossed around and reminds them that you're on their side and moving forward with a cut or color they're stoked about.

How Do I Film It?

The filming part is fairly simple! Set up a tripod at your station and focus on filming during a time when there won't be a ton of room noise behind you. When you start with these consults, try it out with a trusted client or friend who is up for being filmed and get their permission beforehand so they're not surprised by it. This will help with any awkward bloopers where you need to say something again so you can edit it later. And then, just be yourself!

Why Are These So Popular?

Checking out the comment sections of some of the most popular consult videos, it's no wonder people are obsessed!

"This consultation is so refreshing to see! So many stylists rush through the consult these days"

"This is the kind of consultation I want when I go to the salon! So much information. So many questions to ensure he’s doing what the client wants."

"Love the calm and not at all rushed consultation, really cool"

Clients love feeling seen, heard, and respected through these consultation conversations! Including the before and after also makes for really compelling content that people are excited to watch.

Great Consultations = Brand Building

Not only are you building trust with the client in your chair for the consult, but when you share it online you're showing prospective clients that you listen well and deliver what they are asking for. That's a huge barrier to entry for a lot of people who would like to find a new stylist, but are nervous about whether or not they'll get the haircut they want. Using social media as a showcase of not only your hair skills but also your listening skills? That's brilliant brand building.

How Long Are Your Consultations?