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How to Create a Five-Star Client Experience | STIL Salon

September 24, 2025

Two connoisseurs of customer care at STIL Salon Carolyn Chapman (Front of House/Senior Colour Director) and Hazel Lappin (Client Experience Manager) – reveal their award-winning tips and tricks for truly mastering the client experience…

What does ‘creating the perfect first impression’ mean to your salon?

Creating the perfect first impression at STIL Salon means making every client feel welcomed, valued and cared for from the moment they walk through the door. It is about creating an experience that reflects our high standards and passion for what we do. Our goal is to build trust and comfort right from the start.

What are the most important things you do in the first 30 seconds of greeting a client?

The first 30 seconds are all about setting the tone; welcoming, professional and personal. We always offer a warm and genuine welcome with a friendly smile, eye contact and greeting the client by their first name. This instantly makes the client feel acknowledged and appreciated.

How do you handle difficult or unexpected situations while still maintaining a great client experience?

We have clear systems and procedures in place to ensure consistency across our Front of House team, allowing us to manage things like cancellations, deposits and no-shows in a fair and professional way that supports both our clients and our team.

What systems or tools do you rely on to make sure nothing falls through the cracks?

To stay organised and deliver a consistently high standard of service, we rely on clear internal communication and a reliable salon booking system that caters to the salon’s needs. We have clear training plans for all new Front of House team members with a comprehensive training manual which can always be referred to at any time.

What role does appearance and atmosphere play in Front of House excellence?

At STIL Salon, appearance and atmosphere are at the heart of what we do. From personal presentation and a smart and professional attire to a warm, confident tone of voice, every detail reflects the high standards and refined aesthetic our salon is known for. A thoughtfully designed Front of House, a calm and clean environment and subtle uplifting fragrances all contribute to a luxurious and welcoming experience.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone new to a Front of House salon role?

One key piece of advice is to stay calm and composed, especially in a busy environment. Remaining calm helps you to stay focused and attentive to all the TNT’s – ‘Tiny Noticeable Things’, – which are often what make the biggest difference in a client’s experience.

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