How to Adapt to a New Salon Like a Pro

Ashli Grey, Blonde Specialist

Guess who's back, back again... ASHLI'S BACK, tell a friend! Our girl Ashli here had been with our Grandview Corner's location in Surrey for quite some time but felt the need to get out and experience the hair world at a different salon (sad face). Lucky for us she's back at Chatters to stay but we couldn't help wondering about her experience at her other salon and how she adapted. We got the low down on what tips she would give to stylists cozying into a new salon! Welcome back Ashli!

Tell us a little about your experience!

I started working for Chatters as a Beauty Consultant 2 years ago, I then enrolled in hair school locally here in South Surrey. After graduation Chatters had me as a stylist. It was really great, however I felt like I needed to learn more from not just Chatters but other salons. I left for 4 months, learnt a lot haha but... I was chair renting, I was constantly working, and getting burnt out. I never had the support that Chatters gave me and I didn’t have co workers that were like family, like I did at Chatters. So... I contacted my old district manger, asked if they’d have me back and after a week or so they added me in and I was right back at it and I couldn’t be more thankful. With a new outlook, also some new friends it made my passion for hair as well as the business behind hair stronger. I’m not going anywhere haha, Chatters is my home.

How do you handle it when you are the new person in the room?

Honestly, it really varies on the environment for me. Sometimes going into a new place some people are very warm and welcoming and others are well, not so much. So I go in, nice, smiling and not overly annoying and trying too hard. I try to be myself and give everyone their space but help out or accommodate where I can.

What are some things that help you to become more comfortable in the environment you're working in?

Some of the things I do to make myself comfortable in the environment I’m working in are being prepared. So arrive early, set up your stuff you need for your day and first client or even for a class. I also like to make sure I know where everything is, how to use colour etc. It makes my job a lot easier and staying calm easier haha. Making a friend helps too!

Do you look to make friends right away while you learn the ropes?

Always! Because who wants a job where they ignore everyone, keep to themselves and don’t allow their creativity and energy to be known. Making friends creates a better work environment, allows you to learn about so many things inside work and outside, and who doesn’t want a potential friend outside of work?

How do you get used to the new organization and set up of a different salon?

In my experience of going to a new salon, I don’t find it hard to learn how they do things. Chatters has really given me a great understanding of how a salon is supposed to be run. Most are similar, however not nearly as organized!

How do you become familiar with some of the products your new salon offers?

Chatters offers really great sources for us stylists and reception to learn about new products that have just made it to the market. So hands on classes, product classes, and our computer programs that are equipped with everything we need to understand the technologies and how to use them. Also, from my own experience hands in with clients and my own hair.

How did Chatters make you feel welcome when you started?

Not just Chatters the company itself but the people within it. Like, my district manager Serena... she is an incredible human being who is so educated, and inspiring as well as a great friend you can talk to and learn from, she has really helped my entire experience at Chatters. I’ve had continuous support, I’ve always had a person to talk to or confide in. I am always updated on the latest trends and products and my health, my pay cheque and time is taken into consideration.

Ashli also has a bomb instagram account you can creep here. If you're a blonde in the Surrey area you'll definitely want to hit this girl up for an appointment!