Nail Business - Starting from scratch

| October 9, 2011 |

There are many factors that go into the building of a successful business and we will address them all here. I’m going to start by explaining some options if you don’t have much experience and are just starting out. I never recommend opening a salon without experience, the best thing to do is work at a salon. If you can, start out as an employee. That means you get paid to work a certain number of hours each day. There are ups and downs to this.

The down side is that you have to be there, even if you are not busy. You will also have to pitch in wherever they can use you in the salon, like cleaning, sweeping, helping with reception, making coffee, inventory, and retail. You are an employee and won’t have the freedom the other techs have, but put in your time now and it will be worth it.

The upside is that the salon will want to give you clients over technicians that work on commission or rent. They are paying you a salary and want you to make that money back. You will build up your clientele that way. The salon takes care of all your supplies. If you are low on acrylic or gel, no big deal, just tell your boss. Pitching in around the salon will help you learn every aspect of the salon business. You will never know everything, learn as much as you can all the time.

Show up for work at least 15 minutes before your appointments to set up your station. Keep your station super clean at all times, you are making an impression on every client that sits in your chair. Never turn away a customer. Keep an organized and updated client book. Be professional at all times. Once you build up your clientele you can approach your boss about working on commission or booth rental, I’ll have posts on the pros and cons of both. After you’ve established a steady clientele you can consider starting a business of your own.

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