This Is the Technique I’m Not Good At — And Why I Choose to Say It Out Loud
Many hairstylists promote the areas they excel in.
On social media and websites, they highlight statements like “I specialize in this technique” or “This is my area of expertise,” emphasizing the advantages for potential clients.
Of course, that’s an important part of attracting new clients.
But can clients truly trust information that only lists what someone can do?
I actually believe it’s more important to be honest about what I can’t do.
Why Do I Talk About What I Can’t Do?
People tend to care more about avoiding loss than gaining something.
This is known in psychology as the “loss aversion principle”—we’re much more afraid of losing something than excited about gaining it.
For salon clients, the biggest fear is having a bad experience.
Losing their hairstyle or being given a look that doesn’t suit them.
That’s why, during consultations, I make it a point to be just as clear about what I can’t do as what I can.
The Technique I’m Not Confident In
The one area I openly admit I’m not confident in as a hairstylist is high-tone bleach coloring.
For example, extremely bright and delicate bleach colors like pure white platinum blondes or pale pastel tones in blue or pink—
These are not my strong suit.
Of course, I can do bleaching in general.
If the desired color doesn’t require extremely high brightness or saturation, I can handle it no problem.
But for those extra delicate pastel or white-toned colors, I let clients know that’s not my specialty—and in such cases, I refer them to other trusted hairstylists.
On the Other Hand…
Outside of high-tone bleach coloring, I feel very confident in my work.
Through my experiences in Tokyo and London, I’ve worked with clients of all ethnicities and hair types, and have served over 10,000 people.
What I particularly specialize in is haircutting.
Cuts that are tailored to bone structure, hair texture, and lifestyle are at the core of my skill set—and something I provide with full confidence.
Trust Comes from Honesty About Limitations
It’s easy to promote what you’re good at.
But it takes courage to say, “This isn’t my strong point.”
And yet, being honest in that way helps clients feel, “This stylist won’t push something unrealistic—they’ll suggest what’s truly right for me.”
That’s what leads to real trust, I believe.
That’s exactly why I choose to openly talk about the techniques I’m not good at.
What I can do, and what I can’t.
I believe that communicating both with sincerity ultimately leads to client satisfaction and peace of mind.
