When I moved locations, I let my clients know where I was going. Some followed, some didn't.

I don't know why they wouldn't tell you they were leaving unless it was because the move was sudden. A stylist should keep a list of clients' phone numbers and/or email addresses to notify them about stuff like that.

Then again, part of the reason the business is tough is because you have to do your own PR. Some locations have good walk-in traffic but most don't.

I like the location and so far, I have always had good service. I have probably seen 5 people only one time over the years. There was one lady who saw me at least three times before she left and there was a guy I saw for probably a year. I am very open with them about being the grim reaper of stylists. I figure they aren't allowed to take clients with them and I respect that. But I saw this stylist just a few weeks ago when I took my son to have his hair cut. I told her I'd see her in a few weeks. She was always booked up because IMO she was very good.

She told me she didn't plan to cut hair forever and wanted to retire in a few years. I asked if she would let her clients know and she said of course. She knew my history.

So I don't think leaving was her idea at this point and I get the impression it's been sudden with the others too. I have seen a revolving door of stylists. As far as I know, there are two other stylists who have been there a few years. I have never requested the owner because I don't want the whole place to close down.

They offered a discount if I'd see their new guy so what the heck. But I will warn him first and give him a chance to not keep the appointment.

where they pay booth rent to owners. Don't like the location/owner/contract - go somewhere else where you can make a better living.

Its a really tough business, especially for those who don't like the marketing aspect.

When my stylist changed salons a few years ago, she had her niece help her by hand writing out post cards to everyone in her book. In 2016, how many stylists have people's home addresses?

but they have my email address. I don't take this too personally since I am used to it.

Started by following the stylist I had at another salon which closed. She was there for a while, but had issues with the owner who I later found out was a prick. So she eventually left and asked me to follow her to her new salon. But it was a 1/2 hour drive for a 15 minute haircut, so I didn't. I switched to another stylist in the salon and was with her about a year, when my original stylist returned. I told her as much as I would like to be with her again, I really didn't feel right leaving the stylist who took me on when she left. So had a good relationship with that stylist for maybe 3-4 years during which time my original stylists left AGAIN!

But now the salon owner is really beginning to show his true self. My stylist was the senior stylist in the shop and she had a compensation arrangement unlike any of the newer people. She tells me he is trying to get her to change to what I understand is a lesser arrangement and she won't. He, in the presence of her customers, says demeaning things to her and makes snide remarks. I ask her why she doesn't leave. She tells me she really can't because of her current arrangement, she really couldn't get the same elsewhere. Plus she's afraid she would lose her customer base.

Later I call to make my appointment and the owner answers. When I ask to make an appointment with my stylist, he tells me she left. I ask him if he knows where she went, he says no and even if he did he wouldn't tell me. He asks if I want an appointment with anyone else. I say heck no, I am no longer patronizing your shop.

Never did find out where she went. Never heard from her. Too bad I really liked her.

I know there are different arrangements and different fees with stylists. I thought it was odd when a few years ago the policy for tipping changed. Certain stylists could only be tipped in cash. Others could go on your debit card. I think it depended on who rented space versus those who just worked for the owner. I can't be sure but my gut is telling me this owner is the core of the problem here.

We know everything about each other. She's the best psychologist in the world.

I'd rather not spend so much time in the car. But I might be more inclined to follow if the person gave some notice.

It's really awful when you feel like they know you and you know them. And then, poof!

that prevented them from bringing clients to a new salon.

I know nothing about this industry but it does happen in other industries.