Who should you approach if you are unsure of your responsibilities at work?

• Someone with the same job role as you

• Your Manager

• The Receptionist

Where might you find information regarding other peoples job roles and responsibilities?

• A staff hand book

• HR Manager

• Line Manager

• All of these options!

Answer explanation

It's unlikely that you will find a staff handbook in a salon or barbershop however, your manager should be able to provide accurate information about everyone's roles and responsibilities to ensure a harmonious and efficient working environment.

It is more likely that this will be included in your contract than in a handbook.

Why is it important that staff are thoroughly trained and able to complete jobs within their responsibilities?

• It isn't, you can't expect everyone to know everything - mistakes happen

• To avoid mistakes that could lead to client complaints

• Staff should be trained beyond their responsibilities to avoid legal action

Answer explanation

It is important that you only work within the realms of your capabilities. If you haven't been trained, you shouldn't attempt the task.

If you accept training beyond your job role which leads to further expectations not in your contract, you may be taken advantage of! Your pay should reflect your responsibilities, qualifications and experience!

Consider this scenario - Sasha has been employed at a busy chain salon for a few months. Her new colleagues have been making unkind comments about Sasha's weight and what she has for lunch. Sasha's manager is on holiday and she isn't sure what to do?

• Leave the salon with immediate effect - the stress isn't worth it!

• Visit a GP and request to be signed off with stress until her manager returns

• Refer to the Appeals and Grievance Procedure in her contract

• Write about it on social media and ask your followers/peers for help

Answer explanation

Sadly, a lot of people would opt for one of the first two answers however, it is important to challenge this behaviour through the appropriate channels - talking to your Manager or HR Manager if you have one and referring to the Appeals and Grievances Procedure wherever possible to ensure you work through each stage appropriately can help.

How should your Manager discuss and review your performance?

• Outside of work during your weekly night out - it makes you feel less nervous!

• In-between clients, whenever you have a chance to fit it in - it's not important.

• In a dedicated meeting, preferably a few times a year

Answer explanation

A planned, formal and documented Appraisal or Review, three to four times a year presents excellent opportunities to meet with your manager to discuss your strengths and areas for development. It also gives you an opportunity to feedback any concerns and discuss future training with your Manager (but shouldn't involve prosecco!)

Where might you find useful refresher courses for qualified Stylists?

• Your local College or Training Provider

• Your local community centre

• City and Guilds website

• Your salons colour provision, such as Wella or Matrix

Apart from your manager, who might help you to assess and identify your strengths and weaknesses?

• Your peers

• Your client

• Your self!

• All of these options

Answer explanation

It can feel uncomfortable receiving feedback that feels negative from a client or peer however, it is important that you take feedback constructively wherever possible and use it to reflect on and develop your skills.

Having honest conversations with ourselves is hugely important when considering ways in which we can progress and develop for the better!

Consider this scenario: Talon is having a review at work. Their boss has mentioned that they have been running behind a fair bit with client bookings and received a small complaint about it. Talon feels a bit annoyed because they are trying really hard to meet the demands of the busy salon. How should Talon react?

• Explain to the manager that they have been trying really hard - the clients are overbooked and that is the problem!

• Just listen to their boss for now and stay quiet - you can vent to a friend later - nothing needs to change

• Listen carefully and express that they are trying to meet the demands but struggling. Be open to advice and targets to help them improve

Why is it important to react in a positive way to feedback from

other people in the salon?

Answer explanation

This unit teaches us that feedback encourages progression and development. It is important to react in a positive manner so you can consider the feedback you have been given and avoid any potential conflict. This doesn't mean that you shouldn't respond or question the feedback but you should do so in a calm, constructive manner

A (fill in the blank) working environment helps to ensure happiness and efficiency!

Hint - It begins with an H!