“Got any holidays planned this year?” …

“So nice to have some sunshine finally” …

“How’s work been going?” …

For some, small talk at the hair salon is a welcome distraction to pass the time but for others, it can make their regular appointment a dreaded six-weekly occurrence. Chit chat isn’t for everyone – and sometimes, silence really is golden. Understanding this, New Zealand’s largest hair salon franchise, Rodney Wayne, has launched a new service aptly called, ‘No Small Talk’.

In today’s busy and fast-paced world, finding moments of relaxation are rare. While getting a fresh cut or colour is the key objective in the chair, it’s also the perfect opportunity for clients to hit pause and slow down. Visiting the hairdresser is one of the few times clients can bury their head (well, not literally of course) in a magazine and enjoy a few hours to themselves.

Small talk isn’t for everyone, especially those with social anxiety. The thought of visiting a hairdresser and conversing can add to existing stress.  

Ahead, we spoke to Rodney Wayne to learn more about their new ‘No Small Talk’ service and how it works.

What is the Rodney Wayne ‘No Small Talk’ Service and how does it work?

We understand that social interactions can vary significantly from person to person. While some find small talk enjoyable and energising, others prefer a quieter and more contemplative environment. At Rodney Wayne, we always aim for a balance of 95% professional and 5% personal when speaking with our clients. In determining the exact proportion, we take our cue from them.

When clients book a Rodney Wayne ‘No Small Talk’ service, they can expect the same professionalism and expertise with their hair service, style, or colouration. The difference with a ‘No Small Talk’ appointment is that they will only receive spoken information from your salon team that is essential. At the end of the appointment, clients will receive brief words of advice about how to care for their style after leaving the salon and any simple rebooking and payment information.

Why is Rodney Wayne now offering a ‘No Small Talk’ Service?

Every Rodney Wayne New Zealand hair salon is built on the promise that we listen and care. We continually look for ways to improve the quality of our offerings and how we respond to the needs of the communities and individuals we serve. Recently, representatives from the media organisation Warner Bros. Discovery ANZ contacted us. The producers of TV3‘s new current affairs show Paddy Gower Has Issues were researching the story of someone whose social anxiety makes them nervous about going to the hairdresser because they were worried about having to hold a conversation. Paddy Gower and reporter Karen O’Leary were interested in the hairdressers’ and stylists’ perspectives.

During filming, it became clear that Rodney Wayne could provide an extra service to make visiting the salon a more comfortable experience for people who may otherwise have been hesitant. As a result of participating in the story, we are implementing a new feature on the website where people can update Rodney Wayne with their preferences and book a ‘No Small Talk‘ service.

How will ‘No Small Talk’ services help clients feel more relaxed during their hair appointment?

At Rodney Wayne, your time in our salon is a sanctuary where you can unwind and recharge according to your comfort level. By opting for a ‘No Small Talk‘ appointment, you can create an atmosphere that resonates better with you and increases your sense of comfort and ease. You can choose a ‘No Small Talk’ service for any reason. Whether you want a moment to catch-up on emails and messages, enjoy a little quiet time, or whether you prefer not to feel the need to engage in conversation, you are most welcome to select this new appointment option. No judgments are made, and there is no need to explain your choice. You will receive the same high level of professional hair care and expert pampering.

Main image: @chrisappleton1

rodneywayne.co.nz