Identifying Powerful Personalities

Learning to communicate with others is the key to building and maintaining strong relationships, which reflects all aspects of life. Working with clients is no different; you can’t build solid client relationships without proper communication. This isn’t always easy, as we all have different personalities, and we tend to gravitate toward those like us. The best way to address a strong personality is to relate to and validate it. There are some common personality types to look for in clients that will help you to better address client needs.

Common Aesthetic Personalities

“Satisfied Sally”
Sally is the perfect client; she loves getting treatments and loves you. This client will likely buy anything you recommend, but don’t take advantage of her. Her visits are often her escape so make sure she feels welcome and comforted. She is likely to result in multiple referrals. Make sure you thank her and give her complimentary add-on treatments to make her feel appreciated.

“Know-it-all Nancy”
Nancy has done her own research; she knows what she wants and why. She typically comes for a specific service and may even tell you how to do it. Try to understand her ultimate goal and provide safe options for treatments. Explain the pros and cons of each treatment but allow her to make the final decision providing the treatment is safe for her.

“Bitter Bobby”
Bobby has spent a lot of money on services and products and has not seen results. You must make a positive first impression to ease his skepticism. Before anything else, check his expectations and ensure they are realistic. Document improvements with before and after pictures and present them frequently. Refrain from selling too much on the first visit; providing samples is a great way to introduce new products.

“Too-Friendly Fran”
Fran comes in often and tells you that you are the best. She brings you gifts and tries to be your friend, then she may expect discounts or personal favors like staying late. Don’t give too much personal information to your clients, although harsh, you never know what people are capable of. Always maintain a healthy and professional separation, focusing conversations on skin care.

“Esthetic-Shopper Sharon”
Sharon has been to multiple estheticians for consultations. Now she is ready for an appointment and wants to hear your opinion. Be cautious, she may use your recommendations while still price-shopping. Only give general information so they can’t follow your suggestions elsewhere. Also, don’t entertain her speaking poorly of another business. Your time is valuable, don’t let this client take advantage of it.

“Passive-Aggressive Patty”
Reviewing possible side effects, getting consent forms signed, and taking pictures is always important but especially with this client. It is hard to recognize Patty, she promises to be compliant with your recommendations but doesn’t follow post-care instructions. If you are worried about a client’s compliance, it is best not to treat them as adverse reactions can occur.

“Wendy Wants-it-all”
Wendy says she wants (or needs) every service and product that you offer. She often fixates on her nose, skin, and weight and will frequently examine herself in the mirror. You will need to identify if she suffers from Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). If you think she has BDD; do not treat her, refer her to a medical professional.

This certainly doesn’t cover every personality type; it is a guide to help you relate to and validate common client encounters. No two personalities are exactly the same, but you can use these catchy names to better address similar clients. No matter who your client is, consultation is the key to defining the best treatment to reach their ultimate goal!