It’s normal – it’s happened to me too.
In our fast-paced lives, sometimes we just get caught up with many thoughts, responsibilities, and obligations.
We rush through some things and we can overlook some small gestures of gratitude.
I love my hairdresser – he’s the best. He actually knows how to cut my curly hair without making it look like a mop.
And if you’re like me and have a massive wave of guilt washing over you – it’s alright.
It happened to me when I forgot to tip my talented hairdresser.
This small oversight encouraged me to write this post – because it’s important to show appreciation especially when someone goes out of their way to cut your hair and transform you into a beautiful God/Goddess.
This small, simple gesture can brighten someone’s day.
And in this post, I’ll show you how to fix that!
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1. Stop feeling guilty over something that you didn’t mean
The fact that you are already feeling bad means that you really didn’t mean to NOT tip your hairdresser.
It happened.
It sucks – we’re human, and we forget things.
Don’t beat yourself up for it.
Hairdressers are surprisingly good at reading people – they know when someone is kind and they are not going to hold it against you.
Let go of the guilt because, in the next steps, I’ll show you how to make it right.
2. Return to the salon
Consider going back to the salon at your earliest convenience.
If today’s not possible, try tomorrow.
Just schedule a quick visit, explain the situation nicely and calmly to the receptionist or salon manager, and request to leave a tip for your hairdresser.
I’m not kidding when I say that this has worked for me.
My hairdresser was more than happy to see me make that extra trip and he kept saying I didn’t have to do that.
You can also throw in a little extra just to show that you really love your hair, especially if your hairdresser did a bang-up job.
Your hairdresser will more than appreciate your thoughtfulness and understanding.
3. Tip in person
If returning to the salon isn’t feasible for you, because it’s too far or you just don’t have the time, do it on your next visit.
You can choose to tip your hairdresser in person the next time you visit.
Now, this gives you an opportunity to express your gratitude directly and ensure that your tip reaches them directly.
If you can’t wait that long, get in touch with the hairdresser and ask them if they have some online mode of payment like Apple Pay, Paypal, Venmo, etc.
We’ve reached a digital age and it’s totally okay sending money digitally.
4. Send a thank-you note
I’ve done this with service staff at hotels, restaurants, you name it – it’s always appreciated.
Sometimes, I even doodle and leave a kind note telling them that I had a wonderful experience and they’re responsible for it.
Just show your appreciation by writing a heartfelt note.
You can mention their excellent service and apologize for the oversight.
Enclose the tip along with the note in an envelope and drop it off at the salon or you can also physically mail it so that it reaches them safely.
5. Speak to the salon manager
Now, if you’re unable to tip directly or visit the salon, simply speak to the salon manager or owner.
Explain the situation nicely and ask them to pass along your gratitude and an additional tip to your hairdresser.
I get that it may not be as personal as tipping in person, but it still shows that you regret the oversight and you’re trying to make amends.
Conclusion
Don’t overthink it.
It happens to the best of us.
Just be honest and genuine in your apology and appreciation – I’m telling you it works because I’ve done it before.
I’ve made such strong friendships with hairdressers because I go out of the way to talk to them and let them know that they did a great job.
Be polite, understanding, and sincere in your efforts to make up for forgetting the tip.
Your hairdresser will be over the moon that you remembered and went out of your way to tip them – and they’re quite understanding.
Doing something like this shows your integrity and thoughtfulness and believe me, no one will hold it against you – not if you’re this kind. =)
Best of luck!
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