The Power of Knowing Your Worth!

By Angeli Marie Shaw

As a stylist, one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself, and your business is to know your worth. Not just in terms of self-esteem or mindset (although those are incredibly important), but in the literal sense, your pricing. Yes, we’re talking dollars. Charging appropriately for your services isn’t just a business move, it’s a declaration that your time, talent and training matter. And trust me, they do.

Too often I see stylists, especially those newer in the industry, undervalue themselves, whether it’s out of fear of losing clients, not wanting to seem “too expensive”, or just not knowing where to begin when it comes to pricing. But here’s the truth: pricing isn’t just about numbers. It’s about respect. Respect for your craft, your journey, your skills, and the incredible value you bring to each client that sits in your chair.

Let’s break it down and explore how you can confidently charge your worth, and most importantly, WHY you should.

You’re not just “Doing Hair”, You’re Changing Lives

Think about the last time a client left your chair beaming, standing taller, glowing with confidence. That’s not “just a haircut.” That’s transformation! Whether you’re creating a signature blonde, taming curls, or giving someone the fresh look they’ve been longing for, you are using years of training, instinct, and technical skill to deliver something powerful. When you undercharge, you diminish the magic in that moment. And it’s not just the service you’re offering, it’s the energy, creativity, and care that you pour into every appointment. That is not something to be discounted!

Pricing reflects your experience and expertiseThe truth is your pricing should reflect your journey. Whether you’ve been in the industry for two years or twenty, your prices should grow with you. Have you done additional training? Specialised courses? Built a loyal clientele? Created a signature style or service? Those things matter.

Years in the industry = wisdom. And wisdom = value

Just as a doctor or lawyer wouldn’t charge the same rate fresh out of university as they would 10 years into their profession, neither should you. As your skills sharpen, your pricing should adjust accordingly. This isn’t arrogance, it’s growth! Skill has value, so price accordingly. One thing I always say: charge based on your skill, not your fear. It’s easy to second-guess yourself when you’re raising prices or launching a new service. But if you’ve invested time, money, and energy into becoming exceptional at what you do, then own it. A high-skill stylist delivers consistency, solves complex problems, and knows how to make magic happen under pressure. These aren’t beginner-level capabilities. Clients are not just paying for the hour you spend on their hair. They’re paying for everything you’ve learned to be able to perform at that level.

The cost of doing business (Literally)

Let’s be real, running a business or being self-employed comes with real costs. From products and tools to rent, utilities, education, and insurance, your pricing needs to cover more than just your time. When you undercharge, you’re eating into your profit margin, and often your own wellbeing. This leads to burnout, resentment, and financial stress. You deserve to be compensated fairly and feel financially secure in your business. Work backwards if you need to. Calculate your business expenses, desired income, hours worked and break it down into what you actually need to be charging per service. Numbers don’t lie! Once you understand them, you’ll price with confidence.

It’s not just business, It’s boundaries

Knowing your worth is also about setting boundaries with clients. You’re not available 24/7. You don’t “squeeze in” last-minute requests if it compromises your day. And you don’t give discounts just because someone asks or puts the pressure on. Boundaries are part of your pricing too. They’re the invisible line that says, “I value my time, and you should too”. The clients who respect those boundaries are the ones who stick around long term.

Communicate with Confidence

If you’re planning to raise your prices or restructure your services, communicate it with professionalism and confidence. You don’t need to justify or apologise for it. A simple, clear message is enough:

“To reflect my continued training, years of experience, and rising operational costs, my pricing will be updated from [date]. I’m so grateful for your continued support and can’t wait to keep creating magic with you.”

Remember, people pay for what they value. Your dream clients want quality and consistency, not cheap shortcuts. Don’t be afraid to lose a few who don’t align, because you’ll gain the right ones in return.

You Set the Standard

When you stand firm in your worth, you give others permission to do the same. You raise the standard, not just for yourself, but for the industry as a whole. Imagine a world where every stylist felt empowered to charge appropriately, without guilt or fear. That’s the kind of industry we should all want to be part of. One built on respect, self-value, and real recognition of our craft.

So, if you’ve been second-guessing yourself, let this be your sign! It’s time to charge your worth. Not just because you deserve it, but because you’ve earned it!

As always, I believe in you. Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo

Angeli is a former salon owner and Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor/ Trainer and founder of The Bliss Coach. www.theblisscoach.com.au @theblisscoach