How to find the right hairstylist

Embarking on a first appointment with a new hairstylist is not unlike a first date. You're both slightly nervous because you want to make the right first impression, and expectations are high -- could this be "The One"? Everything goes well and the conversation flows, but in the cold light of the next day you can find yourself underwhelmed. Should you give those new bangs a chance and go ahead with your second date in four to six weeks? Or is your gut telling you to start over with someone new?

It can be hard to know if your stylist is right for you. That's why we asked Kit Sena, a hairstylist at the Julian.Marc boutique salon in Ottawa, for her professional tips on navigating the client-hairstylist relationship.

1. Open up
Upon meeting your stylist, tell him or her what you are looking for, and set boundaries. And bring photos of the type of haircut you're looking for, says Sena. Don't say "Do whatever you want" and then, when they cut three inches off, clarify that you didn't actually mean changing the length. "In any relationship, good communication is one of the most valuable elements," says Sena.

2. Be realistic about your expectations
Remember that your hairstylist wields scissors, not a wand. Know your hair type and be realistic about the amount of time and effort you're willing to commit to styling your hair every day.

Sena cites examples of women with wildly thick, curly hair arriving with pictures of sleek asymmetrical bobs, swearing up and down that they will commit to using a hair straightener every single day. The more honest you are with yourself and your stylist, the better your relationship will be because your stylist can cut your hair to suit your actual lifestyle -- not the lifestyle you would like to live.

Page 1 of 3 -- Get a positive salon experience by being honest about your expectations, and sharing feedback with your stylist, on page 2