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Reader to Reader: For those of you who work in full-service salons, how would you characterize the relationship between nail techs and hairstylists?

January 1, 2011

The nail techs and the other salon staff work closely to help promote the services in each department. We do this by performing our services on each staff member so they can better inform their guests about the services in each department of the salon. This really helps cross-promote the services. ~ BRENDA SKERMONT, AbFab Salon and Spa, Rockford, Ill.

When I worked in a salon/spa a few years ago, the nail techs and the hairstylists had a terrible relationship. The stylists would complain if their free appointment was bumped for a client and, in turn, would do the same to the technicians when they booked their hair appointments just to spite them. I found those who worked in the salon and those who worked in the spa were almost enemies. ~ AMANDA WALTON, Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada

I’ve been in a full-service salon for almost 13 years, and I feel that sometimes the nail tech relationship with the hairdresser varies depending on if the hairdresser receives services with the nail tech. I have found that when a nail tech is doing a service on the stylist, the stylist places more value on the tech, which in turn earns a unique respect between the two. I rent space at a full-service salon where I work with 12 hairdressers. The hair dressers were a little reserved when I first started since the last nail tech didn’t make them feel welcome in her space. I have an open door policy. As long as we respect our clients’ time, I will always work them into my chair. (They do sell me well!) ~ KIMBERLY JONES, Shenanigan’s Hair Studio and Spa, Buford, Ga.

There are two nail techs in the salon where I work. The other manicurist is also a hairstylist so they all click well, and the referrals are given to her. I’m the “black sheep”; twice I’ve come in and the stuff on my table had been moved, with drawers even left open. I have a good relationship with one of the stylists; I do her nails, and she does my hair. I get her referrals, but other than that I stay out of the line of fire. I try hard to fit in but they already have their mindset, so I do my clients and leave knowing I won’t get the walk-ins or the referrals, which is fine with me as I’m busy enough right now. ~ SOCORRO “SUKI” LEYVAS, Visalia, Calif.

I work in a salon that is full service and we all work well together. Each of us has something we specialize in, and we all respect each other’s craft. We all get along and like each other. I love my job! ~ LEISA DAVIS, Imagine Inner Beauty Day Spa, Fresno, Calif.

I am the only nail tech in my salon. We all get along well and work together as a great team. I think we are a perfect match as far as our personalities and goals. That to me is what makes a great salon and work environment. ~ KRISTINA HALTER, TC & Company Salon and Spa, Iowa City, Iowa

I work in a full-service salon, and I am the only nail tech during the week. At times, I feel as though it is just me, as far as there’s no one to talk nails with, but we all get along fine. I work upstairs, but when I’m not busy with a client, I’ll go downstairs to chat and talk with the other clients. The hairstylists help me build my clientele; in return, I do their nails.  ~ ZIGGY ZSAZSA, Destiny De’Ve, Washington D.C.

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