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You could be among the thousands of successful hair stylists, nail technicians, cosmetologists, barbers, and estheticians who are earning top incomes as freelancers-and working their way toward owning a salon one day.
Here are a few tips from cosmetology professionals and instructors at top hair styling schools on how to create and keep a successful freelance career in today’s beauty business.
Build a portfolio. Clients and potential employers might know the accredited hairdressing college or esthetician school you attended but the proof is in the pudding. Take professional quality photographs of your designs and mount them in a bound book or portfolio to demonstrate a progressive body of work. Include photos of both traditional hairstyles and some that might be considered trendsetting, to show your diversity as a stylist. If you’re a recent graduate of beauty academy and don’t have a lot of experience behind the chair, host free makeover events for friends and ask them to sign releases to publish before-and-after shots.
Create marketing materials and carry them with you everywhere. Any office supply company or big box retailer will sell printable business cards. Keep the design of your card simple and professional looking. Develop a website, blog, or online photo gallery of your work. A brochure highlighting your services, such as hair styling, manicures, pedicures, skin care, make-up, or personal appearance consultant, along with photographs and contact information is a great icebreaker with potential clients.
Start a beauty-related conversation with others, wherever you are. Everyone has an issue with his or her hair, nails, and skin. Start by complimenting others on what they are doing right with their look, be casual, not critical; and end by offering services that he/she might “enjoy taking the look even further or enhancing a bit here and there.” Offer a small trick of the trade as a gesture of good faith, asking them to give you a call before they visit another salon.
Lastly, make yourself work. Commit to scheduling at least three freelance appointments each week and continue increasing that goal as your business picks-up. Keep up-to-speed on the business aspects of your career, such as good record keeping, ordering supplies, and budgeting. Find and keep a solid routine, and stay motivated.
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