… these are the 3 pillars of my business.
1. EDUCATION
Being part of a registered body and having a community to back you up is vital. I am a member of the Freelance Hairdressers Association (FHA) and it’s been invaluable to me. As a freelancer, having support and knowing there are professionals to turn to for advice is vital. I find that people in our industry are so generous with their time, as well as sharing information and giving genuine advice. We are always learning, and it’s important to reach out and take advice from others (particularly when you don’t work in a salon!).
2. MY ONLINE BOOKING SYSTEM
This is honestly the backbone of my business – it does everything for me! I believe online booking is so important in 2024; not only does it give me the client details that I need, but I can do all my marketing through it and manage my appointments too. I also get such positive feedback on this from clients – they always say how my booking system is so professional and they love the fact that they get a reminder too.
Another reason the system is so useful is because it allows me to run reports that show what my weekly payments have been, how much I’ve taken and how many colours I’ve done – it basically gives me a full breakdown of my business. I am so passionate about keeping up with the times and not being left behind, and this software allows me to do just that! As a freelancer, I strive to be just as professional as any leading group salon.
3. COLOURSTART
Having to skin test as a freelancer is a nightmare! It’s logistically challenging, and it really annoys clients in general. I just don’t think people can be bothered with traditional skin tests anymore! Colourstart, however, offers an easy solution that my clients genuinely love. There’s a one-off cost of £15, but – in my experience – people are more than happy to pay for the convenience. I simply explain to my clients that this is
what I’m doing now, and if they want me to colour their hair
then that’s what they need to do. The whole process is really
simple too – I just send them a link from my website that
directs to Colourstart’s Colourscreen.me site where they order their test.
Directing clients in this way is great because it means I don’t have to carry any stock, which is another major advantage for me as a freelancer particularly. The industry is changing so quickly and this is definitely the future!
My key communities are:
The Freelance Hairdressers Association. There’s a lot of support and they are always there to help with any queries. They appreciate that our jobs are not 9-5 and are fantastic at responding when you need them. I would recommend this organisation to anyone.
Wella Professionals Global Hair Community. This is a Facebook group and it’s amazing. I love looking at the work that other hairdressers share; it is so inspiring! There’s a real sense of community in this group too.
How to Cut It. I love this community. It’s very inclusive and very engaging. I definitely recommend listening to the podcasts and becoming part of the online groups.
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