As we move into what Sam Altman calls the Intelligence Age, we’re not just talking about the rise of AI technologies, but about a fundamental shift in how we live and work. The coming changes will impact every facet of society—our clients’ expectations, how we engage with them, and even how we define success.
Altman predicts that the Intelligence Age will bring a new wave of prosperity but also challenge societal norms. For us, that means our clients’ behaviors, values, and needs will evolve. As people have more access to information, convenience, and experiences that cater directly to them, they’ll start expecting even more from their beauty and self-care routines. This could result in a shift toward deeper personalization and a higher demand for unique, transformative experiences—whether that’s in the products they use or the services they seek out.
In a society where people have more time and resources thanks to advances in AI, self-expression will likely become even more central. Hair, of course, is a major vehicle for that expression. Our clients will be living in a world that demands constant adaptation and creativity, and as professionals, we must be ready to provide them with solutions that not only meet those needs but anticipate them.
Beyond the salon chair, the Intelligence Age may redefine what success means for us as professionals. With automation and digital tools handling more of life’s mundane tasks, we’ll have more time to focus on the things that really matter: personal connection, creativity, and purpose. The challenge will be in maintaining that human element amidst such rapid technological advancement. This new era will also create opportunities for us to rethink how we balance work, creativity, and well-being.
The Role of Trust and Connection
Amid all this technological evolution, the human element becomes even more vital. In a world dominated by AI, where clients might interact with machines more often than people in many parts of their lives, the trust and connection we build with them will stand out even more. As society changes, the warmth and authenticity of a personal relationship—like the one between a client and their stylist—will carry enormous value.
We can already see this in the way clients increasingly look for salons that provide more than just a haircut or color. They want an experience, a relationship, and a sense of belonging. In this new age, where much of life can be handled with the click of a button, that human connection is priceless.
The Bigger Picture
The broader changes in society will extend beyond just our business. Sam Altman talks about how this new age will impact wealth distribution, job markets, and our relationship with work. For us, this might mean rethinking what it means to be successful as a stylist or salon owner. With more people working remotely, more flexible schedules, and changes in how wealth is generated, the definition of “making it” in our industry may shift.
Maybe success in the future will have less to do with financial gains and more to do with building meaningful relationships, creating a fulfilling career, or contributing to the well-being of our communities. The Intelligence Age offers us the potential to move beyond the grind and embrace a more balanced, purpose-driven life.
In a Nutshell…
The Intelligence Age is poised to reshape every aspect of society, from how we interact with clients to the way we live our lives. As this era unfolds, it will bring new challenges and opportunities for our industry. By staying adaptable, focusing on human connection, and embracing change, we can continue to thrive and offer the transformative experiences our clients crave—while living more purpose-driven, balanced lives ourselves.
Change is coming. How we respond will define the future of our work, our relationships, and our impact on the world.
Joe
President
OVID
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