A CAREER AS A NAIL TECHNICIAN – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

In the ever-evolving beauty industry, nail technicians are always being sought after. If you are a creative and diligent individual who loves to socialize, then a career as a nail technician might be for you! If you are interested, here are 3 tips for kickstarting your career.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

The first step to becoming a nail technician is to find a school you see fit. It is important to have training on the various nail techniques to ensure you give the client the best customer experience possible. International Beauty Institute’s Nail Technician Certificate course will allow you to become an expert in spa manicures and pedicures, shellac manicures and pedicures, and gel nails. You will graduate with the skills to open your own nail business or start working with clients right away! With proper training and diligent practice in class and beyond the course, you will be setting yourself up for success.

NETWORKING

The beauty industry is all about networking. It’s important to make connections and get your name out there. A good starting point is to look at your school. Seek out former graduates who have already established themselves. They can be a great opportunity, as they may be more welcome to recruiting fellow alumni, as you both will have had the same training. In addition, you should start building some type of portfolio right away. Having strong pictures is a great selling point to potential employers. In skill-based professions like the nail industry, employers often search you by name on social media platforms. The easiest choice to build your professional portfolio and profile is to choose the social media platform you are already most comfortable with. If you are comfortable with several, then choose the platform where your ideal client would most likely be, or the one you use the most. Use that platform to reach out to other nail techs for support and guidance, and possible job opportunities. Overall, to help boost your career, it is key to socialize and prove yourself as an asset through your work. Who you know and what people know about you matters.

SETTING UP YOUR OWN BUSINESS

Having your own business can be a very rewarding experience. Working for yourself means you get to set your own hours, work where you want, and build a clientele that you genuinely enjoy. However, there are many steps that go into owning a successful business. It is important to have a business plan. Here is a list of things to consider:

• Business Analysis: Ask yourself a few questions before you get started; What service do you want to provide? How many hours do you want to work? How much money do you need to make to cover all your expenses?

• Competitors: It is necessary to look at the market around you. Do some research to figure out what services they offer and for how much, their strengths and weaknesses. From this you must figure out how you can stand out from the competition. What will make customers choose you?

• Customers: Establish who your target market is and what they value in a nail salon. You will need to consider how to bring awareness to these possible customers and make them want to choose you.

• Permits and Insurance: Learn what legal and insurance requirements you need prior to starting your business. 

There are so many options when it comes to a career as a nail technician. If you feel starting your own business isn’t the right move for you, don’t sweat! There’s always opportunities at existing salons.