Business

Do you bargain when it comes to your prices?

September 1, 2009

We have our prices listed at the front desk and on service menus for our clients to read. We have a retail product discount program and a client referral program, both of which enable clients to receive services at a discount. We have had clients ask for price reductions stating that “the place down the street charges less and they want to pay that price.” We smile and explain that our prices are set and that we have client programs they can participate in to receive a discount on a continuing basis. Some clients say OK and leave and others relax and enjoy the services we provide. – ELENA DESMONIE, Posh Nails of Plainview, Long Island, N.Y.

I have a longtime client who was recently laid off from her full-time job. She didn’t want to stop getting her nails done, so she asked if there was anything she could do to help out at my salon to help pay for her services. We talked it over and she started out cleaning on Sunday afternoons. Now, because she loves to work with us and we’re getting busier, she’s doing reception on Thursdays and Fridays! My business partner (a hairdresser) and I trade services with her for all that. She is a welcome addition to our team and our salon has never been cleaner! – SHARON FRENZ, Fusion Hair and Nail Studio, Tomah, Wis.

I have two clients that I trade services with. One client cleans my home once a month, and in turn I do a monthly pedicure and gel extensions every three weeks for her. It works out beautifully. Before the bad economy hit, I was getting my home cleaned once a month by someone who cleans homes for a living, but her prices went up, and I wasn’t able to get it done anymore. This works out for both of us. I also have a hairstylist client that I trade services with every month — a pedicure for my hair color! – KERRIE HARTER, Lisa Marie’s Salon & Boutique, Auburn Hills, Mich.

I’ve never had a client try and bargain with me. I don’t run my shop like a flea market. My prices are set and not open for haggling. Now, if a client would like to barter, I’m open for that, as long as it’s something I can use. – DONNA SCHUR, Nails by Donna, Huntsville, Texas

Topics:service pricing reader surveys

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