The Style King: Four Motivators

by Ron King on Monday, February 8th, 2010

Ron King has worked as a hairstylist, transforming people’s appearances, for more than 20 years. With a growing celebrity clientele, King travels the world taking inspiration from different cultures and countries. Along the way, he has developed his own “easy wear” style philosophy which plays up a woman’s natural hair texture and pairs it with natural-looking makeup that’s easy to apply. This mantra led him to launch a signature line of cosmetics for women who want to look pulled together but who are are short on time. King has worked with some of the most respected names in the industry, including L’Oreal Professional, Ted Gibson, Eva Scrivo and Rick Wellman.

As a stylist, I know that it’s easy to feel uninspired and fall into a rut. The day-in and day-out of salon life makes it easy for us to lack imagination, and (horror of all horrors) our clients may start to look the same. But I also know that creativity and passion are the names of the game and the most important part of retaining clients. So over the years I’ve found some ways to keep myself motivated.

Since it’s still the beginning of a new year, I thought I’d share them with you to either try yourself or inspire you to find your own tricks for keeping it fresh and current behind the chair.

Education

First and foremost, learning new cutting or coloring techniques is a sure way to switch it up! Forget the same old foil highlights and sign up for a class that teaches you how to balayage, for example. This will definitely challenge you and give you an opportunity to expand your business. Plus, clients love newness! When they come back and you always have a new technique or product to share with them, they’ll start to look at you as their style authority. Make it a goal to enroll in one class per month – even if your salon doesn’t offer any, take initiative and sign up by yourself or with a coworker.

Travel

I travel regularly to new cities. One thing I’ve noticed is that each place has a style of its own, and I love seeing all the different looks and replicating them on my clients when I come home. Now, I understand that not everyone has the opportunity to travel, so, instead, check out a new part of town and see what kind of hair everyone’s rocking. If you work in a suburb, spend a day in a trendy part of the city and look for new style ideas. You’ll be pleasantly surprised what’s out there, probably even in your own backyard.

Events

Nothing will get your creative juices flowing more than participating in events. Doing hair for a local high school fashion show or for a charitable cut-a-thon will introduce you to new people and offer you a rare chance to collaborate with creative people who push you to try new looks.

Charity

This is so important to me and something that I require from my staff. We regularly volunteer by teaching classes at a local cosmetology school. The excitement from the students is priceless and rubs off on us, extending to our work. I highly recommend volunteering and sharing your knowledge, the pay back is tenfold.

I know these things work for me, I hope they help you too! For more ideas, style tips and new product reviews, check out my blog thestyleking.net.