Guides › Clients and service providers › As the client
Guide · As the client
How to switch hairstylists without it being awkward
Changing who does your hair is allowed. Here’s how to do it kindly.
Decide whether to say anything
For an occasional service, simply not booking is normal. If you’ve been a regular for years, a short note is kind.
Keep it short and kind
A clear note is kinder than a string of “I’ll let you know.”
Honest and hearable ›What you might want to saySorry, I’ve just been super busy, I’ll let you know when I can come in!
Porcupine · Observation, feeling, need, request“I’ll let you know when I can come in” keeps them holding a spot. Thanks, and a simple reason, tell them where things stand.
What might land betterThank you for all the great cuts over the years. I’ve decided to try someone closer to my new job, and I wanted to let you know.
Skip the critique
You don’t need to list what didn’t work, unless they ask and you’d like to help.
Respect, even when angry ›What you might want to sayHonestly, the last few cuts were off, and you’re always running late.
Porcupine · The behavior, not the person“The last few cuts were off” and “always running late” are criticism no one asked for. “I just wanted to try something different” is true, and enough.
What might land betterI just wanted to try something different.
Say what you appreciated
A thank you for the good years goes a long way, and leaves the door open.
Us against the problem ›What you might want to sayAnyway, bye.
Porcupine · Say what you appreciate“Anyway, bye” ends it flatly. Thanks for the years ends it warmly.
What might land betterThank you for all the great cuts over the years.
Settle anything outstanding
Cancel future bookings, and ask about any prepaid packages.
What you might want to sayI’ll probably just miss my next appointment.
Porcupine · A clear, doable requestMissing the next appointment leaves them waiting. Canceling it, and asking about your package, settles it cleanly.
What might land betterCould you cancel my booking on the 12th? And is there anything left on my package?
The common mistake
Ghosting with excuses
Saying “I’m just busy” over and over can feel easier than a goodbye, but it leaves them holding a spot for you and wondering. A short, kind note is clearer for both of you.
Honest and hearable ›If it doesn’t go the way you hoped
What they might say, and what you could say back.
If they sayDid I do something wrong?
You could sayNot at all. It’s about location, and I’ve loved your work.
If they sayCan I offer you a discount to stay?
You could sayThat’s kind of you. I’ve decided to try somewhere closer, but thank you.
If they sayWell, you know where to find me.
You could sayI do. Thank you for everything.
Putting it together
The whole message, before and after.
What you might want to saySorry, I’ve just been super busy, I’ll let you know when I can come in!
Porcupine · Say what you appreciateThanks, a clear reason, a practical ask and a warm close. It ends things kindly, without leaving them wondering.
What might land betterThank you for all the great cuts over the years. I’ve decided to try someone closer to my new job, and I wanted to let you know. Could you cancel my booking on the 12th? I really appreciate everything.
Run a Quills Check on yours
Write what you want to say, however it comes out. I’ll show you if the quills are up, and a version with them down.
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Common questions
Do I have to tell them at all?
Not for an occasional service. If you’ve been a regular, or have bookings, a short note is kind.
What if I run into them?
Just be friendly. “It’s good to see you!” is all it takes.
What if they ask why?
Keep it short and kind: “I wanted to try something different.” You don’t need to give a review.
Know someone this would help?
Send them this guide. The link shows its title and one of its examples.
Find the words with Porcupine
PorcupineIf they ask why, I’ll help you answer kindly, or decide you don’t need to.
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Related guides
Guides are general information, not legal, financial or professional advice. If you’re afraid of how someone might react, put your safety first and talk to someone you trust (Safety first).