What You'll Learn
- Structure consultations using the five-phase framework
- Ask effective questions that reveal client expectations
- Manage unrealistic expectations with confidence and empathy
- Document consultation findings for treatment planning
- Build client trust through professional communication
- Identify contraindications and when to decline service
Visual References
Step-by-Step Method
Phase 1: Welcome and Environment
Create a calm, professional environment before the client arrives. Greet them warmly and allow a few minutes for them to settle. Offer water and explain the consultation process. This reduces anxiety and establishes your professionalism.
Phase 2: Discovery Questions
Begin with open-ended questions: "What brings you in today?" and "What would your ideal brows look like?" Listen actively without interrupting. Follow up with "What do you like and dislike about your current brows?" Document key phrases in their own words.
Phase 3: Visual Reference Review
If the client has reference images, review them together. Ask what specifically appeals to them in each image. Gently note any differences between reference images and what is achievable for their unique features. Use phrases like "I love this element—here is how we might adapt it for your face."
Phase 4: Assessment and Education
Conduct your symmetry and structural assessment while explaining your process. Share your professional observations using accessible language. Explain what is possible, what requires compromise, and why. This is where you manage expectations.
Phase 5: Recommendation and Agreement
Present your recommended approach clearly. Explain the technique, expected number of sessions, aftercare requirements, and realistic outcomes. Address any concerns or questions. Ensure full understanding and agreement before proceeding.
Document Everything
Record the consultation findings, agreed approach, and any specific client requests. Have the client sign a consent form that includes documented expectations. This protects both you and the client.
Handle Objections Gracefully
If a client pushes for unrealistic outcomes, hold your professional boundaries. Use language like "I want you to love your results, and I can only promise what I know I can deliver beautifully." Declining service is better than disappointing results.
Common Mistakes & Corrections
Rushing through consultation to begin treatment faster.
A thorough 15-20 minute consultation prevents hours of correction work and difficult conversations later.
Agreeing to unrealistic expectations to please the client.
Professional integrity requires honest assessment. Disappointment after treatment is far worse than managed expectations before.
Using technical jargon that confuses or intimidates clients.
Translate all professional terminology into accessible language. Check understanding with "Does that make sense?"
Failing to document the consultation and agreed approach.
Written documentation protects both parties and ensures consistent follow-through across sessions.
Mock Consultation Practice
⏱ 20 minutes- Partner with a colleague or practice on a willing friend.
- Have them arrive as a "new client" with specific requests and reference images.
- Conduct a full five-phase consultation without skipping steps.
- Practice managing at least one "unrealistic expectation" scenario.
- Complete all documentation as if it were a real service.
- Request feedback on your communication clarity and professionalism.
Quick Checklist
- ☐Environment is clean and professional
- ☐Client greeted warmly and offered refreshment
- ☐Consultation process explained upfront
- ☐Open-ended discovery questions asked
- ☐Client responses actively listened to and documented
- ☐Reference images reviewed and discussed
- ☐Symmetry and structural assessment completed
- ☐Findings explained in accessible language
- ☐Realistic outcomes clearly communicated
- ☐Recommendation presented and agreed upon
- ☐Consent form signed with documented expectations
- ☐Questions and concerns fully addressed
Tools Used
Ready to Master Professional Techniques?
This tutorial is a free resource from VELONÉ Brow Academy. For comprehensive training with full visual guides and certification, explore our professional courses.