Why Am I Losing Lash Clients?

You might wonder sometimes in your business, "Why am I losing lash clients?"

We hear you. As a lash artist, you've poured your heart and soul into your craft. You've mastered the art of lashing, creating looks that make your clients feel confident and beautiful. Your workspace is a sanctuary for your clients – a place where your clients escape from the world for a moment of self-care. So, when you notice a dip in your clientele, it's natural to feel a mix of confusion and concern. 

In today's ever-evolving world, the reasons behind a decrease in client numbers can be as diverse as the individuals who lay on your lash bed. It's important to remember that this is a journey we're all on together and the challenges you're facing are not unique to you alone. Whether it's the economic climate, shifting beauty trends, or other factors at play, understanding the "why" can be the first step toward finding solutions.

Revo is here to support you, explore the multifaceted reasons behind client loss, and offer insights that will help you navigate these tricky times. We'll discuss both the external factors that are beyond your control, such as economic struggles and changing trends, and the internal factors that you can influence, like service quality and marketing strategies.

Remember, you are not alone in this. The lash industry is a resilient community; we can find ways to adapt, grow, and thrive together. 

Before we get started, let's start with an honest assessment. Take a look at your lash business from a client's perspective... how many of these are happening in your business currently? Mark all that apply (be honest with yourself, but don't worry... we're here to help).

• My environment is dirty or cluttered
• I have cancelled on clients this year
• I often run behind in my appointments
• My clients arrive to the studio before me
• I don't style my hair
• I don't dress for success
• My clients have inconsistent results after their fill appointments
• I don’t change the sheets in between clients
• I charge additional for “lash baths” at the start of a service
• I don’t wash my hands before starting a service
• I gossip about other clients and lash artists
• I use the same lash map for all clients
• I wear strong perfume on days I work with clients
• I raise my prices without a justifiable reason
• I don’t follow up with new clients after their appointment to see how they like the results
• I purchase products based on the cheapest price over the actual quality
• I don’t explain aftercare to clients
• I don’t care what the current lash trends are
• I work on clients without notifying them that I’m sick
• I have clients that request way too much for their natural lashes to support. To avoid upsetting the client, I give them the look they want and hope their lashes aren’t damaged

FACTORS BEYOND YOUR CONTROL

Cost: The cost of just about everything has been skyrocketing for a while, which has many people struggling to make ends meet. A downturn in the economy can lead to reduced disposable income for many people. When individuals are facing financial pressures, they may cut back on non-essential services, including lash services, which have always been labelled as a “luxury service” and perceived as an indulgence rather than a necessity.

Trends: Beauty trends are constantly evolving, which includes lash trends as well. 2024 has been full of natural requests from clients, such as classic and brown lash extensions. Some prefer such a natural look they want no extensions at all and opt for a lash lift at most. Conversely, if bold and dramatic lashes are trending, clients might seek out artists who specialize in those styles. Keeping up with trends is crucial, but sometimes a shift in preferences can lead to a temporary loss of clients.

Home Lash Products: I’m sure many of you have noticed the introduction of new lash products, such as the DIY lash kits. These products can unfortunately entice some clients, especially those on a budget, to try maintaining their lashes at home, reducing the demand for professional services.

This isn’t necessarily new, however, it’s important to remember that certain times of the year may naturally see a decline in business. For example, during vacation seasons, clients might travel and not schedule appointments. Similarly, during holiday periods, clients might prioritize other expenses over beauty treatments, especially during this time when some people must pick and choose where they’re spending their money.

Changes in social attitudes and cultural norms can influence the demand for lash services. For instance, if there's a growing emphasis on natural beauty or a backlash against perceived artificiality, this could affect client interest. The “less is more” or “clean girl era” has been quite popular, which is why it’s important to promote and have more natural-looking options available for your clients. 

Understanding these external factors can help you strategize and adapt your business model to mitigate the impact of client loss. While you can't control these factors, you can certainly prepare for them and find ways to stay relevant.

FACTORS WITHIN YOUR CONTROL

Quality of Service: at the heart of any successful lash artist's business is the quality of service they provide. This includes not only the technical skill of applying lashes but also the overall experience you offer your clients. Are you consistently delivering high-quality results that meet or exceed client expectations?

Cleanliness and Comfort: a clean, comfortable, and welcoming space is crucial for client retention. Your workspace should be a sanctuary where clients feel relaxed and at ease. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your equipment and work area are non-negotiable. Additionally, paying attention to the ambiance—from the lighting to the music—can enhance the overall experience for your clients.

Consistency in Results: clients value consistency. They expect the results of their lash services to last and to look as good as they did on the first visit. Any inconsistency in the quality or longevity of your services can lead to dissatisfaction and, ultimately, client loss. Ensure you're using high-quality products and maintaining your skills to provide consistent results. Make sure your retention is consistent every time with our best selling lash adhesive: Kaio Black Lash Adhesive.

Respect and Professionalism: the way you treat your clients can make or break your relationship with them. Respect is paramount. This includes being punctual for appointments, avoiding last-minute cancellations, and always maintaining a professional demeanour. Gossiping about other lash artists or clients is a surefire way to erode trust and professionalism. Always strive to create a positive and respectful environment for your clients.

Communication and Customer Service: effective communication is key to building and maintaining strong client relationships. Be responsive to client inquiries and concerns, and always strive to resolve any issues promptly and professionally. Providing excellent customer service can turn a one-time client into a lifelong advocate for your business.

Marketing and Visibility: in today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential. Ensure your website and social media profiles are up-to-date and showcase your work effectively. Consider investing in marketing strategies to increase your visibility and attract new clients. Remember, even the best services won't retain clients if they're not aware of them.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation: the beauty industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and techniques emerging regularly. Stay ahead of the curve by continuously learning and adapting. Attend workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance your skills and offer the latest services to your clients.

Understanding and addressing the internal factors that may be contributing to client loss is a crucial step toward building a successful and sustainable lash business. By focusing on delivering exceptional service, maintaining a welcoming environment, ensuring consistency in your work, and treating your clients with the respect and professionalism they deserve, you can create a loyal client base that will stand by you through changing trends and economic fluctuations.

Looking to expand your client base and grow your business? Our blog on "Gain Clients As A Lash Artist"  is packed with proven strategies and innovative ideas to help you attract and retain the right clientele! From effective marketing techniques to enhancing your client experience, discover actionable tips that make a real difference. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your business—click here to unlock the secrets to client acquisition and watch your lash business thrive!