Worst Salon to work at - Managing Cosmetologist SmartStyle Employee Review

1.0
Dec 14, 2024
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

High traffic area - easy to gain customers as it is located inside walmart. Most of the clients who come here are AMAZING :)

Cons

wage theft, scam-ish pay system, long hours, upper management doesn't help w/recruiting unless you pester them, they only focus on what they feel you're not doing enough of and not on how much you do! Bare minimum budget to order supplies - some salons only get a monthly budget of 30.00 to order supplies! We don't have access to human resources. you're labeled a troublemaker for asking questions about your paycheck. they "offer" commission vs hrly and even when you hit your goals they don't pay you commission. they try to lump in retail goals w/ your service goals so they don't have to pay you. they charge what they call shop fees and these show up on your check! they say this is a fee charged to the clients and it affects how your commission is calculated. Rarely get lunches and if you point out they legally (in tn) have to give you a lunch you're labeled a trouble maker and your job threatened.

Explore other reviews about SmartStyle

5.0
Nov 17, 2025
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Lenient dress code, ample access to new clientele, video library to expand skills and product knowledge, PTO and benefits

Cons

The salons are almost always short staffed

1.0
Jul 9, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

I loved working there. I loved my job. I loved meeting new people..

Cons

• Poor management and retaliation for raising concerns • Unauthorized schedule changes with no notice • Unfair NCE pressure and write-ups despite strong sales performance • Micromanagement from 400+ miles away with no understanding of local conditions • High turnover due to bad communication and bullying

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