Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/120653
The Sound of Silence Reducing outside noise can be a challenge. Hard surfaces amplify outside noise, while soft furnishings absorb it. Mask unpleasant sounds with a fan, fountain, soft music, or white-noise machine. Here are more ideas from the pros at www.skincareprofessionals.com: ��� have an area rug displayed on one of the walls in I my treatment room���it looks beautiful and helps soundproof as well. (Adam Sarroe, Chicago, Illinois) ��� y lifesavers are a fountain and overhead M speakers. (Kristin Dugas, Castle Rock, Colorado) ��� ut a rolled-up towel or some thick padding at the P bottom of the door. The other thing that worked for me was foam in large areas over the wall, covered with a curtain or wall hanging. An air purifier or humidifier can help layer the sounds in the room. (Natalie Lewis, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) A cut orange or lemon may be all you need to provide a clean, fresh, natural scent in a small space. Based on Telephone Doctor surveys, one of the biggest frustrations for callers is an unreturned message. Check your voice mail between clients and return calls promptly. Critique Your Work Area What does a client see when she arrives? If you work from home, make sure the front lawn or other entryway is kept tidy and attractive. Yes, this is your home first, but to your clients it is your place of business. Consider a separate entrance into your work area to further distinguish the spaces. If your business is in a commercial setting, protect those first impressions when you arrive each morning by removing any trash that may have blown into your area overnight. In any setting, make sure outdoor areas are well-lit, and keep the sidewalk and entryway clear of ice and snow, leaves, mud, or puddles. Inside, review cleanliness and decor, not just in the treatment room, but also in the bathroom, hallway, and anywhere else that will be visible during the client���s visit. Avoid clutter. Blinds, ceiling fans, and curtains are traps for dust and cobwebs���and can catch a client���s attention when she���s on your table���so pay extra attention to these areas when cleaning. Keep all pictures and graphic images appropriate for your professional setting. Artwork with inspirational sayings is great, but avoid anything political or religious���you need every client to feel welcome in your space. In general, avoid using personal family photos. ��� created padded picture frames to act as sound I insulation. Staple a fabric you love to a plywood frame about 1.5 inches thick, then glue egg cartons on the back of the frame. You could also pad a folding screen. (Susanne Schmaling, Director of Education, Associated Skin Care Professionals) Make sure sheets are soft and inviting, not nubby or worn, and that any aromas are subtle and welcoming. Remember that many people are sensitive to fragrances. We become less aware of scents we use daily, and may end up using a little more each day to compensate, unaware that it���s overpowering to everyone else. A cut orange or lemon may be all you need to provide a clean, fresh, natural scent in a small space. Of course, it���s just Murphy���s Law that no matter how careful you are, every now and then something will go awry���loud outside noises, a temporary power outage, or something else outside of your control. When this happens, just take the challenge in stride and don���t make matters worse by calling attention to it or being over-apologetic. Your client will likely follow your lead, so be your joyful, professional self while the issue is resolved. First impressions can make or break your business, especially a new business. Make sure your first impressions are great ones and new clients will feel comfortable putting themselves in your capable, professional hands. Carrie Patrick is editor of ASCP Skin Deep magazine. Contact her at carrie@ascpskincare.com. Get connected to your peers @ www.skincareprofessionals.com 29