Braider pre-call: turn a prospect into a customer

You’re a talented hair braider, your fingers itching to create intricate designs. But before you can work your magic, there’s a crucial step that can make or break your business – the pre-call to turn your prospect into a customer. Most of the clients form their first impression of a hair braider during this initial conversation? That’s right, your braiding skills might be top-notch, but if you fumble the pre-call and cannot turn them from a prospect into a customer, you might never get the chance to show them off.

In this guide, we’ll unravel the secrets of how as a hair braiders can Turn Customer pre-calls into Bookings. Whether you’re a home-based braider or a mobile artist, you’ll discover practical strategies to impress potential clients, set clear expectations, and lay the foundation for long-lasting relationships. Take a glass of your best non-alcoholic drink and be ready to elevate your pre-call game and watch your client list grow while turning a prospect into a customer.

1. The Client’s Perspective: Setting the Stage for Success

Put yourself in your client’s shoes. They’re about to trust a stranger with their hair – and their confidence. Here’s how to ease their mind and get them excited:

Research Like a Pro

Before the call, savvy clients will:

• Scroll through your social media (keep it updated!)
• Read online reviews (respond to all, good and bad)
• Check out your website or portfolio

Questions They’ll Ask (Be Ready!)

– “What styles do you specialize in?”

– “How long have you been braiding professionally?”

– “Can you work with my hair type?”

– “Do you have more examples of your work?”

Appointment Details They’ll Want to Know

– Date, time, and location (be specific about parking if you’re home-based)

– Expected duration of the braiding session

– Any hair preparation needed

– Your rescheduling and cancellation policies

Safety First: The New Normal

Clients will inquire about:

– Your sanitization procedures

– Mask policies (if applicable)

– How you handle allergies or sensitivities

Money Talk: Transparency is Key

Be upfront about:

– Pricing for different styles

– Any extra charges (travel fees, products used, etc.)

– Accepted payment methods

Aftercare: Set Them Up for Success

Briefly explain:

– How to maintain their braids

– Recommended products (without pushing a hard sell)

– When to schedule their next appointment

2. The Hair Braider’s Perspective: Turning Calls into Clients

Now, let’s flip the script. Here’s how you can wow potential clients from the first “hello” to swap the prospect into a customer:

Set the Scene

Before answering:

– Find a quiet spot

– Have your calendar and booking system ready

– Take a deep breath and smile (it comes through in your voice!)

Nail the Basics

Start strong by confirming:

– Their name (and pronunciation)

– Best contact information

– Desired appointment details

– Location (their place or yours?)

Understand Their Vision

Ask thoughtful questions:

– “What style are you dreaming of?”

– “Do you have any inspiration photos?”

– “Tell me about your usual hair care routine.”

– “Have you had braids before? How was that experience?”

“To listen closely and reply well is the highest perfection we are able to attain in the art of conversation.”

– Francois de La Rochefoucauld, Essayist

Get the Hair Scoop

Gather crucial info:

– Natural hair texture and length

– Recent treatments or colour

– Any scalp conditions or sensitivities

Talk Money (Without the Awkward)

Be clear about:

– Pricing for different styles

– Potential extra costs

– Deposit or cancellation policies

– Accepted payment methods

Safety Chat: Build Trust

Explain your process for:

– Sanitizing tools and workspace

– Handling health concerns or allergies

– Ensuring a comfortable, safe braiding experience

Set Clear Expectations

Give them the inside scoop on:

– Realistic appointment duration

– Hair preparation requirements

– What the braiding process will be like

Aftercare Teaser

Showcase your expertise with a quick rundown of:

– Braid maintenance tips

– Product recommendations (without the hard sell)

– When to consider touch-ups

End on a High Note

Wrap up by:

– Summarizing key appointment details

– Confirming how you’ll send reminders

– Expressing genuine excitement about creating their new look

3. Overcoming Common Pre-Call Challenges

Even expert hair braiders face hurdles. Here’s how to leap over them:

The Indecisive Client

– Offer to send photos of different styles

– Ask about their lifestyle to guide suggestions

– Propose a brief in-person consultation to discuss options

The Price Haggler

– Explain the value of your expertise and quality

– Consider package deals for multiple services

– Stand firm on your worth – quality clients respect this

The Nervous Newbie

– Share success stories from similar first-time clients

– Suggest a simpler style for their first experience

– Emphasize your gentle technique and patience

The Last-Minute Booker

– Implement a waitlist system for cancellations

– Offer a premium rate for true emergencies

– Stick to your policies – it sets a precedent for respect

4. Levelling Up Your Pre-Call Game

Want to take your pre-calls from good to great? Try these expert tips:

Create a Pre-Call Checklist

Develop a quick reference guide to ensure you cover all crucial points during every call. This keeps you organized and professional.

Practice Active Listening

Really tune in to what your client is saying – and what they’re not saying. Repeat back key points to show you’re paying attention and to clarify any misunderstandings.

Use Positive Language

Instead of saying “I can’t do that style,” try “Let me suggest a similar style that would look amazing on you.” Positive phrasing keeps the conversation upbeat.

Offer a Freebie

Consider offering a small add-on service (like a scalp massage or edge treatment) for free. This unexpected bonus can turn a hesitant client into an enthusiastic one.

Follow Up with a Summary Email

After the call, send a quick email summarizing the appointment details and any agreed-upon points. This shows professionalism and reduces the chance of misunderstandings.

Your Blueprint for Pre-Call Success, shifting your prospect into a customer

Mastering the pre-call isn’t just about booking appointments – it’s about laying the foundation for long-term client relationships that turn from prospect to customer. By implementing these strategies, you’ll transform every phone conversation into an opportunity to showcase your professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for your clients.

Remember, a great pre-call sets the stage for an amazing braiding experience. It builds trust, manages expectations, and gets both you and your client excited about the transformation to come.

Ready to revolutionize your pre-call game? Which pre-call strategy will you implement first to turn a prospect into a customer? Share your thoughts in the comments below – your insights could inspire fellow hair braiders to level up their business!