#29 5 Things Stylists Want from Their Leaders (But Aren’t Saying)
Let’s talk about the stuff your team isn’t saying out loud.
They’re showing up to work. They’re doing the services. They’re smiling at guests.
But behind the scenes?
They’re frustrated.
They’re checked out.
They’re wondering if there’s somewhere else they’d feel more seen, more supported, and more trusted.
And no, they’re not bad employees.
They’re just tired of being managed like robots when what they need is leadership.
So if you’ve been micromanaging every move, redoing work, double-checking everything, or wondering why your team “just won’t take initiative,” this one’s for you.
Here are 5 things stylists want from their leaders... but most are too afraid to say out loud.
1. “I want to be trusted, not watched.”
There’s a difference between holding your team accountable and hovering.
Stylists want you to believe they’re capable, not micromanage every little decision.
Instead of redoing their work or constantly correcting, try saying:
“I’m giving you the space to lead this. If you hit a wall, I’m here to support.”
That one shift? Builds confidence like nothing else.
2. “I want feedback before I mess it all up.”
Too often, salon owners wait until a team member is on thin ice before saying anything.
Stylists want to grow, but they need direction before it becomes a crisis.
They want regular coaching, check-ins that aren’t just about performance, and feedback that doesn’t make them feel like a failure.
Try this:
“Here’s what’s working. Here’s one thing I’d love to see you improve. Let’s talk through it together.”
3. “I want to be coached, not just corrected.”
Telling someone they’re doing something wrong isn’t the same as leading them to do it better.
Stylists want to be coached, developed, and poured into.
If you’re only stepping in when something goes wrong, you’re not leading, you’re putting out fires.
Ask yourself:
Are you making space for questions?
Are you teaching them how to think, not just what to do?
4. “I want to know what’s next for me.”
Stylists stay when they see a future.
Whether it’s advanced education, leadership opportunities, or mentorship, if there’s no path, there’s no reason to stay. A solid vision creates solid retention. Let them see how their career fits into the bigger picture of your salon’s mission.
Pro tip: The best time to talk about growth is before they start looking somewhere else.
5. “I want to feel like I matter.”
This one’s big.
Stylists don’t want to just be useful, they want to be valued.
Are you asking for their input? Celebrating their wins? Noticing when something’s off?
Because being seen isn’t a perk. It’s a vital part of getting your team bought into the vision.
If you want to keep your best people, you’ve gotta lead them like they matter, because they do.
Salt & Light,
Heather