I did not steal your client, although you hint and act like I did. I may be guilty of asking if there was some confusion in coming to me, and in the process hearing why she stopped going to see you. I am not sure any of this is factual, because I was not around for any of it, but here is what she said to me:

I stopped going to see my ex-stylist because I became invisible. The first appointments, about a year ago, were good, although, in retrospect, I never was offered styling options or given what I hear people call a full consultation. However, my hair turned out nice and I got several compliments on the color, all of which I enthusiastically shared with my ex-stylist.

My subsequent visits reminded me of what developed with my ex-husband, so maybe I am being unfair. I had been married for a little over five years when I became invisible, and that certain forced way of being greeted, listened to and included developed. I won’t stand for it, much less pay for it. Just so you know what clients think, I will share my laundry list with you, my new stylist:

My ex-stylist:

• There was no enthusiasm to your greeting. I was a number

• You quickly started shampooing and doing your work

• Never a pause for new ideas or suggestions on my style

• You seem bothered by my bringing in a photo or a magazine style

• There is enthusiasm with others, including other clients not shown to me
  (This is so ex-husband).

• And, I really did get the same style every visit. Some may want this. I made it clear I would like variations.
  
  

You may be thinking I am a grouch, difficult, controlling woman. This is not my method and not what people tell me. I work in human resources and am an attractive, in demand, and generous tipping client.

• My new stylist is professionally polite.

• It’s obvious she likes what she does and is into it. Not you.

• She shares trends and ideas from shows and seminars she goes to.

• She is popular with the salon team. Everyone likes her.

• My new stylist records all my formulas, suggestions

• I now book online appointments that go to her cell phone. She replies within the hour. This you never offered to your clients.

• I get silly birthday wishes and she remembers important events.

• When I went to visit you I felt like you were doing me a favor. Seriously.

• When I visit my new stylist, she acts like I am the most important person in the world.

This is an actual conversation I had with a very attractive and smart woman. I didn’t have a recorder, so I paraphrased some of it, yes. All of what she said is true and has value to all stylists.