A Salon Divided: Weighing the Reviews of Unique Hair Manly
Unique Hair Manly, nestled at 36 Market Ln in the heart of Manly, NSW, currently holds a 3.2-star rating, suggesting a somewhat polarised experience for its clientele. While some patrons passionately defend its services, others voice significant concerns about both the technical aspects of the hair styling and, crucially, the customer service provided. Examining the recurring themes in reviews paints a complex picture of this local hair salon.
Many praise Jessica, the owner and lead stylist, for her technical skill, particularly in colour treatments. Several reviews specifically highlight successful highlights and bleaching experiences, with clients noting the resulting smoothness and desired colour. One long-term client has been visiting for eight years, even travelling from across Sydney to secure Jessica's expertise. Another client boldly states Unique Hair is the “best of the best,” surpassing salons they’ve visited worldwide. These customers consistently emphasise Jessica's professionalism and dedication to client satisfaction. However, it’s worth noting that these glowing reviews often centre on Jessica's skill but occasionally gloss over potential interpersonal issues.
Here’s a breakdown of positive feedback frequently mentioned:
- Colour Expertise: Consistent praise for highlights, bleaching, and overall colour results.
- Skill & Professionalism: Jessica is frequently described as skilled and professional, with a dedicated approach to her craft.
- Long-Term Loyalty: Numerous clients report years of consistent service and satisfaction.
- Value: Some consider the pricing to be fair given the skill and location.
Customer Service Concerns and Communication Breakdown
Despite the enthusiasm around Jessica’s technical ability, a significant number of reviews centre on negative experiences related to customer service. The recurring complaint revolves around perceived rudeness, abrupt communication, and issues with appointment handling. One reviewer recounts a frustrating phone experience where Jessica hung up mid-conversation and another describes being shouted at during a debate over pricing.
The online booking system also appears to be a source of contention. Clients were advised to book via phone to avoid charges, but then found the initial phone communication to be dismissive. This inconsistency adds to the frustrating experience reported. While some acknowledge Jessica’s Korean background and potential language barriers leading to abruptness, this doesn't excuse experiences of disrespect and rudeness.
Consider this customer experience breakdown:
Issue | Details | Frequency |
---|---|---|
Abrupt Communication | Perceived rudeness and a rushed tone during interactions | High |
Appointment Issues | Hangups mid-call, difficulty scheduling | Moderate |
Online Booking Confusion | Contradictory advice regarding booking methods | Moderate |
Pricing Disputes | Unexpectedly high costs, resistance to discussing charges | Moderate |
Pricing and Value Perception: A Point of Contention
Pricing appears to be a consistently sensitive subject for Unique Hair Manly. One review describes being charged $500 for a colour and highlights, a figure significantly higher than quotes from competitors (like Frankprovost, at $250 for a comparable service). The customer felt pressured into a less-desired service after Jessica discouraged foils, then faced a substantial bill without clear explanation. This instance led to accusations of a “rip-off.”
While some clients find the prices reasonable for the Manly location and skill level, others believe the cost doesn’t align with the overall experience. The lack of transparency regarding pricing, specifically a lack of upfront discussion before proceeding with services, exacerbates this issue. It’s crucial for any salon to provide detailed price breakdowns before starting a service to avoid misunderstandings and maintain client trust. Furthermore, the incident with the inflated price shines a spotlight on the importance of clear communication and ethical business practices.
Facilities & Accessibility: A Mixed Picture
Unique Hair Manly indicates it welcomes families, advertising itself as "Good for kids". The salon also accepts various payment methods – credit cards, debit cards and NFC mobile payments. However, several reviewers note the salon itself is “dirty and unkept.” This detail clashes with the positive feedback regarding Jessica's professional service and raises questions about overall salon maintenance.
The salon's operating hours are relatively standard:
- Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Saturday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Appointments are recommended, making planning essential for potential clients. Overall, while the salon offers essential facilities and convenience in terms of payment, the reports of a lack of cleanliness diminish the potential for a truly positive experience. Potential clients might consider this when weighing their options.