You are excited to be on your way to the hair salon to get the latest, hottest hairstyle. Upon arrival, your excitement wanes as you suddenly discover that you are the tenth person waiting for a stylist. This scenario is very frustrating, yet a surprising number of people repeatedly choose to suffer through this experience. If this sounds familiar to you, now is the moment to discover how easy it is to change a bad experience into a delightful memory!

Book Ahead of Time

To avoid the dreaded wait at the hair salon, one thing you can do is book an appointment ahead of time. Now, that doesn’t sound difficult, does it? If you are not already doing so, now is the time to start. You will be astonished at how much waiting time you can save by booking ahead as well as always being able to see your favorite stylist.

Know Your Schedule

First, know your schedule before making the call and have your calendar on hand. It is much easier to create a supply of possible dates in advance than when you are already on the phone. In addition to available dates, know your available times as well. Make sure to consider how long it will take to get your hair cut, colored, highlighted, and/or styled when deciding when you should arrive. Have an alternative schedule ready in case the initial slot you have chosen is not available.

Avoid Popular Appointment Times

When selecting the best time to go, in addition to your schedule you may want to consider popular appointment times. If your schedule is very flexible, you should pick a slot when most salons are the least busy which is usually in the middle of the day during the week. Many shops are busiest during around the normal end of a workday, Friday nights, holiday seasons and weekends.

When salons are at their busiest, any additional clients create a back-up for washing, coloring, and drying stations. This will not only increase the length of your visit but also increase the likelihood that your hair will be done in a rush. Late afternoon may also be a poor choice, since your stylist may be tired and the end result on your hair could be decreased quality. So if possible, book your appointment in the middle of the day on a week day.

Arrive Early

On your prearranged day, arrive about 15 minutes early. This will give you time to sit, relax, and flip through some fashion magazines. On the other hand, if you are late for your appointment it is likely your visit will be rushed. Your finished product could end up less than what you desired as your beautician will have to finish you quickly in order to meet the next client on the schedule. Alternatively, the salon may need to re-book your appointment for another date.

Call to Cancel an Appointment

In case something unexpected comes up and you can’t make your scheduled engagement, be respectful to your hairstylist and call to cancel your appointment. On the other hand, do not make a habit of canceling prior arrangements. If you do this often, your salon may no longer book you or they may charge you a cancellation fee.

You do not have to wait grueling long hours in line just to get the new hair style of your dreams. You can significantly cut your waiting time simply by booking an appointment in advance at your favorite location. Make it part of your routine. You will be pleased at how much difference a single call can make!