I've always been a 'mall haircut' kinda guy.  It's convenient and typcially less expensive than what one might experience in a full service salon.  About a year ago one of our employees who worked for us, back in the day, finished her schooling/licensing and became a stylist in a full service salon.  I put it off for quite a few months, but eventually brought myself to go try it out and give her my support.

It's been very interesting to see and experience many of the little things they do at the salon where she works.  Things like..

1. It's always clean and tidy.
2. It looks and feels warm yet classy.
3. The receptionist takes your coat and hangs it up.
4. They offer you something to drink.
5. There is rarely a wait.
6. Your stylist greets you very quickly once you arrive.
7. Your stylist always remembers your name.

So, how do these translate into keeping customers happy and coming back to the salon?  Well, here's the key (match the same number to the numbered list above)..

1. There is no clutter to distract you from the experience of being there.
2. You feel comfortable and confident in your decision to get your hair cut or styled there.
3. Each stylist has a number in the coat rack area so when you leave they know exactly where your coat is without having to ask.
4. It's nice to know I can show up thirsty.
5. They encourage me to schedule an appointment to get the best service and who doesn't want the best service.
6. They use a computer system to check you in which alerts the stylist from the salon area that you are here and she quickly comes to the front.
7. The computer system also displays your name so they can remember it before they come to the front.

As I walked away with a very handsome haircut ... the thoughts were racing through my head of what little things do we do for our clients that could make a big difference?  What little things do you do for your clients?