Half an hour face to face in a mirror with someone you barely know: no wonder the chair makes people awkward. A little small talk makes it go faster, and over time your hairdresser becomes one of the friendly faces in your week.
Say clearly what you want
Start with the haircut. A clear answer, maybe with a photo, takes the pressure off both of you.
Use the mirror
You’re talking to a reflection, so look at theirs: catch their eye in the mirror when you answer, and smile. It’s how you have a proper conversation without turning your head at the wrong moment.
Answer the classic questions with one detail
“Doing anything nice this weekend?” deserves more than “Not much.” Try: “Trying a new hiking trail, if the weather holds.” One small detail gives them something to ask about.
Ask something back
“Have you been busy today?” or “How long have you been cutting hair?” Most people enjoy talking about their work when someone’s interested.
Topics that always work
Weekend plans, vacations, the music that’s playing, pets, and the new café down the street. Keep heavy subjects like politics or money for people you know well.
Follow what they mention
If they mention soccer, a vacation or their kids, ask about that. Remember it for next time: “How did the match go?” is how regulars are made.
If something’s not right, say it early
Halfway through is the time to speak up, while there’s still hair to work with: “Could we keep a bit more length on top?” Said kindly and early, it’s easy for both of you.
It’s fine to want quiet
If you’d rather relax, say so kindly: “I’m going to zone out today, if that’s all right.” Most hairdressers are happy to oblige.
Become a regular
Book with the same person, use their name and pick up last visit’s story. Over a few months, a short chat every six weeks turns into a friendly face you look forward to. There’s more in How to Make Small Talk That Doesn’t Feel Small.
Lines to borrow
- Saying what you want: “Same as last time, but shorter on the sides. I’ve started to look like a mushroom.”
- Answering the weekend question: “My sister’s visiting, so I’m cooking for the first time in months. Wish me luck.”
- Asking about them: “What’s the strangest haircut anyone’s ever asked you for?”
- On the next visit: “Last time you were off to Spain. How was it?”
- When you’d like quiet: “Long week. Mind if I just enjoy the head massage today?”
Practice it
The Haircut is free to play: Saturday morning in Malik’s chair, a goalkeeper who always loses and a charity soccer match. The Coffee Line practices easy small talk in a line.