Anyone that knows me, or has seen my Instagram page @johaywood.hair, knows that I love to use British Sign Language to connect with my Deaf clients. Following my previous article all about how and why I have incorporated British Sign Language into my business, I thought it would be helpful to share simple, easy ways to that you can make your salon more accessible too.
As amazing as BSL is, it’s not widely known by hearing people… but don’t worry there are so many other ways to make your salon an inclusive and welcoming place! Deafness is something that’s probably not crossed your mind, but did you know there are 18 million Deaf adults in the UK? Imagine living in a world where most people around you can’t easily communicate with you. It must feel lonely and isolating, so anything we can do to help is greatly appreciated.
Phone bookings aren’t an option for the Deaf community and if someone is hard of hearing they would find it much easier to use an online system. Your current salon software probably offers an online booking service or there are many others such as Treatwell. Social media can also be great for not only booking appointments but consulting.
Typing is one of the easiest ways to communicate. To be organised and prepared for the appointment ahead, why not do an online consultation? Your clients will feel at ease knowing that even before they’ve entered the salon they’re understood. Being able to send photos back and forth will ensure you both have the same vision and understand exactly what your client wants. Doing this before the appointment will also save time on the day as consultations where there is a barrier to communication can take extra time. This prevents extra stress and rushing, creating a nicer appointment for both you and your client. Perhaps you would do this via email or social media.
View this post on Instagram
Put a note on their file if they prefer to not be called. Instead use text or email to remind them of their upcoming appointments.
It can be natural to speak louder or shout, but be aware that this can change the way you use your mouth. Many people use lip reading to help them understand what’s being said so try and maintain a neutral lip pattern.
If you haven’t had an online consultation beforehand using pictures can be a big help. Being able to point at different lengths and styles will help you both to get your points across. Have a pen and paper on hand to be able to jot down notes to help with clear communication.
View this post on Instagram
Either stand directly behind them in the mirror or face to face. This helps people be able to read your lips easily and pick up on your body language too.
For those who have limited hearing, keeping the background noise down will help them be able to hear what you are saying. Maybe turn the music down slightly or take them to a quieter area of the salon.
No one likes to feel rushed. Consultations are key and if there are barriers to communication it can take a little bit longer, so make sure you have plenty of time.
Just learning ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ or ‘hello, how are you’ will make them feel truly welcomed and create a connection with your client.
It’s so quick and easy to do and keeps your Deaf clients in the loop and contritutes to them feeling included and valued.
As you can see there are so many things you can do to make your salon more welcoming and inclusive. Utilise social media to share the new things your salon is doing so that people know and can come and enjoy your beautiful space and environment.
In a world where we can be anything, be kind. And what a great way to show kindness by recognising the needs of others and putting even a small amount of time and effort into helping them.
Let me know if you do implement any of these things or if you’ve thought of some more ways we can become more inclusive @johaywood.hair.
