How I Stayed Relevant in the Hairstyling Industry for 20 Years (And How You Can Too!)
The hairstyling industry moves fast. Trends come and go, new techniques emerge, and social media has completely transformed the way stylists market themselves. Some stylists get stuck doing the same thing for years, only to realize they are struggling to keep up.
Staying relevant isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy.
After 20 years in this industry, I’ve seen it all. I’ve rebuilt my clientele, mastered new skills, and adapted to the constant changes that come with this business. In Episode 120 of The 5-Minute Podcast, I break down exactly how I have maintained a strong, in-demand career for two decades.
If you want to secure your spot in this industry for the long haul, here’s how you do it.
1. Always Learning and Evolving
The industry does not wait for you to catch up. The moment you stop learning, you start falling behind.
Here’s how I stay ahead of the curve:
Invest in education – Even with years of experience, I still take courses, attend workshops, and study new techniques. Growth is not optional if you want to stay relevant.
Try new techniques – Not every trend will be for you, but understanding new methods and services keeps you competitive.
Listen to clients – Clients’ needs shift over time. The best way to stay ahead is by offering services that align with what they are asking for.
Many stylists plateau because they stop pushing themselves to learn. The best way to stand out is by always being a step ahead in your skills and knowledge.
The TSC Exclusive Hairstylist Membership is designed to help you do just that. Members get ongoing education, industry insights, and an exclusive stylist community for support. Join here.
2. Embracing Social Media and Marketing Myself Like a Brand
If you are not online, you are invisible. Social media is not just about sharing hair photos—it is free marketing that can bring in new clients, elevate your brand, and set you apart.
Here’s how I have used social media to maintain my relevance for 20 years:
Consistent content – Even when my books were full, I kept posting. Social media is how you stay visible and keep your name in front of potential clients.
Storytelling, not just posting – People connect with stories. Instead of just posting hair transformations, I share the journey, the why behind the look, and insights that educate and engage my audience.
Adapting to platforms – What worked on Facebook years ago is not the same as what works on Instagram or TikTok today. I continue to learn what performs best on each platform and adjust my strategy accordingly.
You do not have to post daily, but you do have to be consistent. Set a content schedule that you can maintain. Even two to three times a week is enough to make an impact.
Want to learn how to create content that brings in real clients? Check out The 5-Minute Podcast Playlist for business strategies that work. Listen here.
3. Prioritizing Client Experience and Retention
A stylist’s career is built on relationships. Many focus so much on attracting new clients that they forget about the ones they already have. Client retention is the key to longevity in this business.
Here’s what makes the difference:
First impressions matter – How you greet a client, consult with them, and educate them on their hair care will determine whether they return.
Follow-ups keep you top of mind – Checking in after major services shows clients you care and increases loyalty. A quick message can be the difference between a one-time visit and a repeat client.
Loyalty pays off – Offering small VIP perks, like a complimentary treatment after five appointments, makes clients feel valued and keeps them coming back.
If your books are slowing down, do not just focus on new clients. Look at how you can retain the ones you already have. The easiest way to increase income is by keeping your existing clients engaged and rebooking them consistently.
The Secret to Staying Relevant in This Industry
If I had stuck to what worked in 2005, I would not be where I am today. The industry changes, and I have evolved with it.
Always be learning
Market yourself consistently
Give clients a reason to return
That is how you build a career that lasts, not just a short-term hustle.
If you want to stay ahead, the TSC Exclusive Hairstylist Membership gives you access to education, industry resources, and a community of stylists who are pushing for growth. Sign up here.
And if you have not listened to Episode 120 of The 5-Minute Podcast, this is the one you do not want to miss. I break down exactly how I have kept my career thriving for over 20 years.
Your future in this industry depends on what you do today. Stay relevant, keep learning, and keep growing.
Warm regards,
Danie Wilks
The 5-Minute Podcast Host and Mentoring Coach
