How do i get Started in Business once i have my Cosmetology Licenses
School is over and the state exam is just a memory, so what's next? Next is a list of decisions that will set the pace for your future in cosmetology.
First you should research the pros and cons of self employment verses working for someone or an established company. Some new cosmetologist are confident and have capital that allows them to start off in their own business right away, while others need to work for a salon or company that is already established. Either way is a workable avenue if you remember to keep your overhead low. If a new cosmetologist starts off in a huge debt then the normal slow start, which just comes with being a new stylist, will end the career before it starts.
After you decide weather to own your own business or obtain employment by an established business, then you have to research the money. It's a good idea to look into what each service is paying in the areas that you will be working and make sure you're up to date on current pricing. If your employer makes the price list you still need to do your own research to make sure you are informed. Products cost, and a cosmetologist is usually responsible for their own products and tools. You have to plan ahead to cover the booth rent, business mortgage, or commission fees. It will cost to get started no matter how you start, so plan for the expenses.
Once you are set with a work place and a pricing guide, then you must get down to the real work. I bet you think I am talking about working one customer after another, making your neighbors look current and beautiful. That is a great idea except that in most cases a new cosmetologist spends a lot of time waiting, smiling, shampooing, and even working for free in some cases, all in the name of earning clients trust. This is the hardest part of getting started. You might want to give up when you have waited all day only to watch customers pass you up for the more experienced stylist. Hang in there, use the opportunities to visit with the waiting clients, make sure you look the part of a polished cosmetologist, and always exude confidence. They will start to trust you, but it might take you staying late while co-workers go home. Consistent work hours that the customers can count on will win their trust. I begged my family members to come in and I offered services to them at my cost. That way my abilities were displayed, and my family got a cost break for being so brave.
While you are building clientele remember to stay current. You should go to the hair shows when you can and attend some of the workshops offered. New fashionable ideas will keep your work fresh and trends make cosmetologists money. If a stylist can't deliver new fashions then the clients will become board and go to the more updated salon. Your education will never really be over.
