“Can I Get a Discount?” – How to Handle Those Clients Without Losing Your Cool

You have probably had that one customer who keeps trying it on: "Baby, any chance of a little discount?" for example, "If I bring a mate, can I get money off?" if you have been lashing for more than five minutes. At first, you may laugh it off, or even give in since you do not want to lose them. But let's face it, it becomes old really fast. Your prices aren't just numbers you made up; you've put a lot of effort into your work, purchased resources, and spent many hours perfecting your craft.

Let's now discuss how to remain professional (and calm) when dealing with customers who persistently request discounts. 

Know Your Worth, Babe

First and foremost, quit undervaluing yourself. You're offering a luxury service that eliminates years from your client's morning routine and requires talent, accuracy, and more than just applying a few lashes. In addition to the lashes, your costs also cover your training, the items you use, the space rent, and even the tea you provide while they're sitting there.

When someone requests a discount, keep in mind that they are merely trying their luck and are not doubting your value. Furthermore, you owe no one an explanation for your reasonable prices. 

Set Your Boundaries Early

The simplest method for handling bargain hunters? At the pass, head them off. Clearly display your price list in your salon, on your booking website, and on social media. For example, "All my prices are listed online, lovely—they're set to reflect the quality of the products I use." This will allow you to direct anyone who enquires to the information.

You may avoid getting caught up in a back-and-forth that makes you feel bad by being forceful yet courteous. 

The Polite Clapback

Clients sometimes assume tiny firms can be accommodating without intending to be impish. You can keep the following courteous yet snarky responses handy:

"I have already set my prices to reflect the best value for the quality I provide."

"Although I don't give discounts, I do provide loyalty infills, so the longer you take care of your lashes, the less you'll have to pay overall!"

"I would have to lower the quality of my work if I did that, and I would never do that to you, sweetie."

Usually, the final one lands. 

Offer Value, Not Discounts

Consider offering bonuses to your customers if you truly want to go above and beyond without lowering your costs. Free aftercare brushes, loyalty cards, or even a sly raffle on your social media accounts. In this manner, you avoid cutting into your profits while yet giving your clients the impression that they are being handled.

For instance, you may advertise "Book 5 lash infills, get your 6th half price" in place of the £10 discount. This encourages loyalty rather than bargain hunting. 

Spot the Red Flags

The truth is that your ideal clients are rarely those that are often requesting discounts. They typically pick at their lashes, neglect to take care of them, and then contact you three days later to report half of them have fallen out (convenient, isn't it?).

Letting them go is acceptable. Customers that respect your time and abilities will gladly pay your rate, give you a tip, and make another reservation before they depart. Put all of your effort into establishing a rapport with those hotties. 

You are ultimately managing a business, not a nonprofit. Regular discounts will reduce your earnings, diminish the value of your labour, and make you feel bitter. Remain steadfast, recognise your value, and keep in mind that saying "no" won't turn away the proper customers. If anything, it will draw in people who value you more.

That way, the next time someone says, "Any chance of a discount, babe?" —remind them that your pricing are what they are for a reason, smile politely, and act professionally. Your company will appreciate it, and you'll feel much better.