Today we’re excited to be connecting with Doug O’Connell again. We’re excited to feature one of their services in our gift guide – learn more below and we encourage you to use your gift budget to support small businesses & creatives whenever possible.
Doug, thanks for joining us again. We’re so excited to have a services focused conversation today. Can you bring our readers up to speed on the service-offering side?
As a hairstylist with over 12 years of experience, I’m passionate about creating beautiful, personalized hair transformations that make my clients feel confident and their best selves. At my chair, I offer a range of high-quality hair services, with a particular focus on balayage, blonding techniques, and extensions—all areas that truly allow me to get creative and bring my clients’ vision to life.
One of my specialties is balayage, where I use freehand coloring techniques to create natural, sun-kissed highlights that blend seamlessly with your hair’s natural tones. Whether you’re looking for a soft, beachy look or something more vibrant, I customize each balayage application to complement your unique features and personal style. I also have extensive experience working with blondes, from subtle highlights to striking platinum shades, always focusing on keeping the hair healthy and maintaining a beautiful, dimensional result.
In addition to color, I offer extension services that can completely transform your look, adding length, volume, and fullness. I work with a variety of extension methods, from k-tips to hand-tied wefts, ensuring the best fit for your hair type and desired outcome. I absolutely love working with extensions because they allow me to create dramatic changes and give clients the fuller, longer hair they’ve always dreamed of. The best part is, I make sure the installation process is as seamless and comfortable as possible, so you leave feeling like you’ve gained a whole new look that feels natural and wearable.
What sets me apart as a stylist is my dedication to creativity and attention to detail. I’m not just focused on executing a service, but on crafting a personalized, one-of-a-kind experience for each client. I take the time to listen to your goals, offer professional advice, and use my skills to create something that’s not only beautiful but also works for your lifestyle.
I work behind the chair at The Nest in Brea, CA, and I truly love what I do. Every day is an opportunity to be creative, whether I’m working with color, extensions, or a precision cut. I’m here to help you achieve the hair of your dreams, and I’m committed to making sure you leave my chair feeling like a brand-new version of yourself. Whether you’re coming in for a balayage refresh, a complete color transformation, or a set of gorgeous extensions, I’m here to make it happen!
Can you walk us through the onboarding process for a new client?
Step one when bringing on a new client is conducting a thorough and in-depth consultation. This is crucial because it sets the foundation for a successful relationship and ensures both you and your client are on the same page. During the consultation, you should ask questions about their hair history, current routine, lifestyle, and any specific goals or concerns they have. It’s also important to assess their hair type, texture, and condition to make informed recommendations. A detailed consultation allows you to tailor your services to their needs, manage expectations, and build trust, which ultimately leads to greater satisfaction and long-term client retention.
After the consultation, the next step is to create a personalized plan for your client’s hair service. Based on the information gathered, you should recommend the appropriate treatment, color, cut, or styling techniques that align with their goals and hair type. This involves you discussing the specifics of what will be done, including product choices and any necessary aftercare. Clear communication about timelines, pricing, and expectations is essential, as it ensures the client feels confident and informed about the process. Setting realistic goals and offering solutions for any hair challenges they may have can also strengthen the client’s trust in your expertise.
How do most people hear about your services?
When it comes to marketing myself and my business, I rely on a combination of online platforms and client referrals to help people find me. Social media plays a huge role in my marketing strategy, especially platforms like Instagram, where I showcase my work, share behind-the-scenes content, and engage with potential clients. It’s a powerful way to give people a visual sense of my skills and the results they can expect when they book with me.
In addition to social media, I also leverage Yelp to gather reviews and testimonials from satisfied clients, which can help build credibility and trust. Positive reviews on Yelp can go a long way in attracting new clients who are looking for a reliable and talented stylist.
I also make sure my website, dougoconnellhair.com, is up-to-date and easy to navigate. It acts as a central hub where people can learn more about my services, see my portfolio, and book appointments online. Having a professional online presence helps potential clients easily find me and feel confident in choosing me for their hair care needs.
Finally, word of mouth is incredibly important to my business. My existing clients are my best advocates, and their recommendations to friends, family, and colleagues are often the most valuable form of marketing. I make it a priority to provide excellent service, as happy clients are more likely to refer others and keep coming back themselves. All of these channels work together to keep my business growing and ensure I’m consistently attracting new clients.
Do you have any advice for folks who are just starting out?
For new hairstylists just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is to put in the work and never give up. Building a successful career takes time and persistence, especially in the beginning. There will be challenges and setbacks, but your dedication to improving and staying committed to your craft will pay off in the long run. Stay patient and keep pushing forward—success doesn’t happen overnight.
Another key to success is always continuing your education. The beauty industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, techniques, and products emerging all the time. Make it a priority to take classes, attend workshops, and keep learning throughout your entire career. This not only helps you stay current but also boosts your confidence and expertise, which will set you apart from other stylists.
Don’t forget to market yourself. Whether it’s on social media, your website, or even through word of mouth, make sure people know who you are and what you offer. Social media, in particular, is a powerful tool for showcasing your work, building your brand, and connecting with potential clients. Consistently post high-quality content, engage with your audience, and never underestimate the power of a good online presence.
And finally, always be on time. Punctuality shows professionalism, respect for your clients’ time, and a strong work ethic. Being reliable and organized will help you build trust and retain clients, which is essential to growing your business.
If you stay focused on your growth, continually improve your skills, market yourself effectively, and maintain a professional attitude, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career as a hairstylist.
- Website: Dougoconnellhair.com
- Instagram: @dougoconnell13
