Chances are, an individual’s opinion of a cosmetology professional is not the same as that of a licensed professional. Part of the differentiation may come from the caveat that “professionals”, in the traditional sense (ie lawyers, doctors, etc.) do not receive “tips”. But it’s important for the general public to know that cosmetologists are not only highly talented, skilled, artistic, and passionate individuals, but are also professionals committed to changing people’s lives.

Tipping in the beauty industry began in the early 1930s and 1940s when housewives performed hairstyling services in their kitchens for pennies on the dollar. For example, perms can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, and when only service fees are charged, a tip is greatly appreciated. Well, jumping into the 21st century, beauty professionals have gone from practicing in their kitchen to practicing in multi-million dollar facilities across the country.

To practice cosmetology, you must be licensed and recognized by the state, meet certain requirements, and maintain certain standards according to the facility in which you practice.

The beauty industry is a very lucrative and exciting field where the opportunities for success and financial well-being never cease. “To ensure proper service”, also known as “tipping”, is a widely practiced tradition in our industry even today. This tradition is being challenged by some salons who feel it is not necessary to ensure “proper service” or adequate compensation.

Here are some benefits to both the consumer and the business of creating a “no tipping policy”: Consumer:

• “I no longer suffer from ‘Tip Anxiety’. Do I get out my wallet and tip? I gave one to the woman who did my laundry earlier, but should I have done that? And how much should I tip, anyway? anyway? Some percentage of my bill? A total of five dollars? More? Do I put the money in your hand? Or place it on the counter at your work station? What if I don’t have exact change? Can I add a tip to my credit card receipt or put a note in an envelope saying you’ll find a tip later under a rock on the NW corner of 16th and K?

• “First of all, is tipping a reward for good service or a protection against bad service? Is paying a tip a way to buy something that you should get for free (good service) or is it a way to ensure that something bad guy will win? What’s wrong with you? If it’s the latter, we’re getting uncomfortably close to extortion.”

• In one study, when consumers did not have to tip, more retail products were purchased, where retail = retention, with statistics saying that customers who purchased one product had a 30% return rate, two products increased by 60% and 3 products increases to a 90% return rate. Business and Technical

• “We are professionals,” he said. “We charge according to the value of our services.”

• Technicians in general feel more proud now that they are treated like professionals.

• The business no longer has to claim increased income from credit card tips, which were not actually received, since they were paid to the technician.

• Less income taxes paid. • Fewer trips to the bank for change to refill registers, making deposits easier and reducing errors at registers.

• Accuracy of Profit and Loss.

• The receptionist no longer feels intimidated or pressured by the consumer and the technician and is no longer blamed for a small or no tip.

• Referrals increase because consumers want to thank you.

• The national average salary for cosmetologists increases, due to the accurate reporting of salaries, creating a greater desire to enter the profession.

Although tipping has long been a staple in the cosmetology industry, it can be an outdated practice. There are ways and benefits to create a “no tip” approach in your salon or spa! Author: Terry Folawn