3. Professional attitude of the artist
An overwhelming 86% of clients pinpoint the "professional attitude" of the artist as a crucial trust-building factor. However, this concept is layered with intricacies. Artists sometimes err by being too agreeable, overcomplicating explanations, or presuming the client's knowledge level.
Be Direct, Not Overly Agreeable
A direct acknowledgment of issues is key to professionalism and trust-building. New artists often attempt to align too closely with client views to please them. While experienced artists can navigate client preferences, they maintain firm stances on brow artistry. They offer clear, honest assessments of the client's condition and realistic outcomes. True professionals recommend the most suitable approach based on their expertise, not just what the client wants to hear.
Set Clear Boundaries
Novice artists sometimes compromise professional standards to appease clients. Trust is built on clear professional boundaries regarding brow shape, color, and technique. Like a reputable doctor, an artist should be kind but honest, avoiding false assurances. Setting and adhering to these professional standards is essential for long-term success and client satisfaction.
Make Complex Things Simple
While artists might be tempted to share extensive knowledge with clients, overwhelming them with technical jargon can diminish perceived professionalism and likeability. Seasoned artists simplify complex topics using analogies and straightforward language, educating without intimidating. This approach makes the artist not only professional but also approachable and likable.
Don't Assume the Client Knows Everything
Avoiding complex explanations is one thing, but assuming the client knows everything is another pitfall. Experienced artists often over-explain, preferring to reiterate basic concepts rather than confuse clients. Many clients, it turns out, know less than expected and may be reluctant to ask questions. You educate your client and reinforce trust and confidence by providing thorough explanations.
Maintaining a professional attitude involves clear communication, setting and respecting boundaries, simplifying complex information, and assuming clients need a thorough understanding. By adopting these practices, artists demonstrate their professionalism and enhance their credibility and the trust clients place in them. Developing a Bystander Perspective
As many artists suggest, a key technique for cultivating a better professional attitude in all the aspects previously mentioned is to develop a bystander perspective. This involves the artist learning to observe themselves as outsiders or clients. While having good intentions and a professional mindset is crucial, ensuring that clients perceive these intentions as professional is equally important.
Everything matters
Clients typically interact with the brow artist only a few hours each year, making every moment and interaction impactful. Adopting the mindset that "everything matters" can be beneficial. Every gesture, joke, statement, or action communicates something about the artist's approach, and it's vital to understand that clients' perceptions and sensibilities can vary greatly. Some might appreciate light humor and casual conversation, while others prefer a more formal or straightforward interaction.
Artists should avoid unnecessary risks that could potentially misinterpret their professionalism. Instead, ensure that every interaction aspect — demeanor to dialogue — is consistently professional. The best way to accomplish this is to continuously monitor one's behavior and actions from a third-person perspective. By being mindful of how actions and words might be perceived, artists can maintain a high standard of professionalism that resonates well with a diverse client base and fosters a trustful and respectful artist-client relationship.