Great hair starts with a great hair stylist. Finding the right stylist who is also reliable can be a process that takes some time and patience.However, it’s definitely well worth the effort.

Here are some great tips to help you choose a hairstylist that is perfect for you!

Get a Consultation
To find the perfect stylist, always go in for a consultation. It doesn't cost anything, so you have nothing to lose! At the consultation you want to keep tabs on the details that the stylist notices “Does the stylist know things about your hair that you haven't even told her yet? Have they asked you what your day to day maintenance is? Did they comment on those fabulous shoes your wearing? You want a stylist to notice the details. If they do, they're right for you,” says Salon AKS stylist Mika Saputo. There is so much information a stylist gets from a consult that is both directly hair related and also related to your lifestyle. It's just as important for a stylist to know who the client is and what their personality is like so that they can create a style that works with their lifestyle and fashion sense.

Word of Mouth
If you see someone whose hair you envy, don’t be afraid to ask them about their stylist. “Identify a similar haircut you like anywhere, on the street, in a store etc. ask the person who cut their hair. The person will be flattered and so will the stylist when you book your appointment” says celebrity hairstylist Cristophe. It's also helpful if the person with great hair also happens to have the same type of hair as you do. If her hair is thick and curly and yours is straight and limp, her hairstylist may not be able to work as much magic on your locks, advises Vicky Oliver, author of The Millionaire's Handbook: How to Look and Act Like a Millionaire Even If You're Not.

Google It
Researching on the internet is also a great way to find the stylist that is just right for you. Saputo suggests that you do a Google search on well-known salons in your area and look to see which of their stylist come up when you search for more info about that salon. It means they are more sought after or searched for by other clients. More often than not if they're popular, then they're probably good.

Build Rapport with the Stylist
Build a rapport with the stylist, and don’t be shy about asking the stylist what cuts, color and/or styles would look best on you and with your face shape. A good relationship with your hair stylist can lead to better and clearer communication explains Pam Kelly, Senior Director of National Technical Education for Fantastic Sams Hair Salons. Plus, they get to know you, your hair, and what will and will not work on you.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions
It’s your chance to interview the stylist and get comfortable. For instance, you might ask if they notch cut or razor cut. If they don't know what you are talking about or can’t provide the latest hair cutting techniques it most likely means they haven’t kept their skills up and their cutting style are outdated, warns Kelly. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for certificates of advanced training displayed at the stylist’s station.

Sometimes, It Takes Two
Women really need two hairstylists: a person who gives a good cut and blow dry, and another person to color the hair, says Oliver. Generally, stylists specialize in one or the other, not both. Ideally, it would be great to go to the same salon for both but it's not always possible. 

Carla Snuggs is a freelance writer for Endless Beauty.