Hiring the Right Fit: Interview Tips & Questions for Salon Owners

Hiring the Right Fit: Interview Tips & Questions for Salon Owners

Hiring a new stylist is more than just filling an empty chair—it’s about finding someone who aligns with your salon’s culture, values, and growth goals. After making a few hiring mistakes in the past, I’ve learned that a great interview process makes all the difference. Whether you're expanding your team or hiring your first stylist, here are some key tips and questions to help you find the perfect fit.

1. Know What You’re Looking For

Before you even schedule an interview, get crystal clear on what you need in a stylist. Are you looking for someone with a strong technical background in blonding? Do they need experience with luxury guest services? Understanding your non-negotiables will help you filter candidates faster.

Start by adding an application form to your website with key questions that help you learn more about each candidate. Pay attention to how much effort they put into their answers and whether their personality shines through.

For the first interview, consider doing a quick 15-minute virtual call. This will help you gauge their personality and see if your salon aligns with their needs before bringing them in for an in-person visit. If they seem like a good fit, you can then schedule a walkthrough at the salon.

2. Ask the Right Questions

Beyond the standard "Tell me about yourself," ask questions that reveal how a stylist will fit into your salon’s culture and workflow. Here are some of my go-to questions:

• What’s your approach to client consultations? (This helps gauge their communication skills and professionalism.)

• How do you handle an unhappy client? (A stylist’s response here will tell you a lot about their problem-solving skills.)

• What are your career goals in the next 3-5 years? (You want someone whose growth aligns with your salon’s vision.)

• What’s your favorite service to perform, and why? (This helps you see where their passion lies.)

• What do you need in a salon environment to feel supported and successful? (This tells you if they’ll thrive in your space.)

3. Look Beyond the Resume

A stylist’s portfolio and Instagram can tell you a lot about their technical skills, but attitude and work ethic are just as important. Take note of how they communicate, how prepared they are for the interview, and their overall energy. A stylist who is eager, professional, and open to learning will often be a better long-term investment than one with great skills but a poor attitude.

4. Test the Fit with a Trial Day

If they seem like a good fit, invite them in for a shadow day. Watch how they interact with your team and guests. Do they ask questions? Are they proactive? Do they align with the salon’s energy? This step can save you from hiring someone who looks good on paper but doesn’t mesh well in real life.

5. Plan for the Future

Just like I mentioned in my blog 5 Things I Wish I Had Considered When Designing My Salon Space, planning for the future is key. The same applies to hiring. Think about where your salon is going—will this stylist grow with you, or will you be repeating the hiring process in six months?

Hiring isn’t just about filling a spot—it’s about building a team that will elevate your salon. Take the time to ask the right questions, trust your gut, and think about the long-term.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned from hiring (or not hiring) a stylist? Let’s chat in the comments!