It has been more than a year since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and beauty centres and massage parlors in Hong Kong had been ordered to shut up their store repeatedly. During this period, most of my friends have pretty much “given up” on themselves and would rather stay home without doing anything about their long and messy hair. To my surprise, I found that hair salons have been spared all along when I conducted this year’s interview with Top Pro hairstylist Herman, but unfortunately, this so-called “advantage” hasn’t done much good for the industry. Despite all the difficulties, Herman has still managed to earn a place as a Top Pro, not only because he found a wider customer on Toby but also because he took the initiative to include in-home services.
【2022 Top Pro】Herman — Let Beauty Blossom during the Pandemic
Beauty Matters
Herman became a hairstylist because he appreciates beauty. Aside from developing his personal style, he also finds great satisfaction in helping his clients. Before becoming a hairstylist, Herman had worked at fashion boutiques but he felt that the job lack autonomy, that’s why he decided to take a different path and learn to become a hairstylist.
Embarking on a new career as a hairstylist was no easy feat and there were no shortcuts. Herman’s apprenticeship lasted 4 to 5 years, he shared, “It took a lot of hard work but when the money wasn’t enough, I had to take a break from time to time to make a living.” In a materialistic city like Hong Kong, it is rare that one can have the freedom to pursue his interest and life goals.
Herman’s hard work didn’t go to waste and he was hired at a high-end hair salon in Central after finishing his apprenticeship; however, the job came with restrictions that didn’t allow him to pursue the artistic autonomy and satisfaction he had hoped for. Despite the constraints, Herman continued to work hard and master his trade, he expressed, “Hairstyling is fun and there is a lot to do and learn.” When the right moment came, Herman took the next step and started his own business without the need to worry about any constraints.
Co-working Space in the Hairstyling Industry
Herman currently works at an upstairs hair salon in Causeway Bay. It is like a co-working space with the salon providing the space and equipment and the hairstylists being tenants who will split the rent and their income. Herman said, “I can work freely without a boss or any subordinates.” This arrangement has allowed Herman to find his freedom——coming up with styles that please both himself and his clients without setting any boundaries, arranging his bookings at will, and allocate the necessary time to serve each client.
However, there is a downside to this work arrangement, specifically the customer base. Herman used to rely on his employer to find him clients, but he now has to take care of everything himself… In addition, Causeway Bay is a competitive area with plenty of hair salons, that’s why Herman decided to join Toby to boost his customer base.
“Toby has helped me break through the barrier and connect me with customers from all walks of life.” Toby has opened a new door for Herman to meet customers of all ages and professions. While Herman specializes in Japanese and Korean hairstyling, he is also excited to challenge other hairstyles and will base his design on his client’s face shape and habits to create the perfect hairstyle. Herman‘s motto is to “treat and communicate with each customer with care and sincerity.”
Herman: Confidence is Key
Toby has allowed Herman to communicate with potential clients before order confirmation. He said, “Talking to a client directly helps to build their confidence.” Herman’s attentiveness and patience have helped him to earn customer trust. There was one instance that a customer canceled his Toby booking but still showed up at Herman’s, the customer ended up being so satisfied that he asked Toby to reactivate the order so that he can give Herman a positive review.
Aside from working in the salon, Herman is also offering in-home services, which include cut, perm, bleaching, and coloring. His ability to give his clients peace of mind has helped Herman to expand his business.
