starting your own business
If you haven’t the time, funds or skills to initially invest in your own website, then Facebook andTwitter are inexpensive, easy and effective ways in which to heighten the awareness of your beauty
business.Most people are familiar with these platforms, so why not set up accounts in your business name and then add the links to any advertising or promotionalmaterial.You can thenTweet and post to let people know about your treatments, free appointment slots, special offers and any upcoming events.
Planning ahead could save you time andmoney in the future.
you prepare for the breaking into, and succeeding in, the sometimes intimidating business
world.Additionally,Marie-Louise Coster created the ‘Starting in Business Workshop’ fromher own personal experiences with an aimto assist anyone whomay be contemplating opening a business.
invest for success
Frompurchasing stock and equipment to printingmarketingmaterial, before any new business canmake a profit, you will have to spend before you recoup.You might be in the fortunate position of having funds readily available, but if not then youmay need to raise capital either through a loan or
investment.Always be realistic about howmuch you can afford to borrow. Sit down and do your sums – calculate your estimated outgoings, how much you will need to charge your clients and howmany treatments you’ll need to performper week to cover your overheads. Visit your bank and speak to an advisor about small business loans in order to gain valuable professional advice.
When you’re first starting out, the sensible course of action is to initially offer a small number of
services.This will allow you to slowly expand, introducing new products and treatments over time as your clientele andmonetary situation increases. If you’re not already in possession of your kit essentials,many companies offer starter packages with all the items you need to help you get underway. So, what should you consider when taking the plunge and investing in a brand or product range? “With somany brands on themarket choosing one that fits the needs of your client as well as being economical to a [business] can be aminefield,” explains
LeeMoore, OPIMobile Educator. “My advice is to look around and see what there is on offer and what support and guidance brands can offer you. It is always easier to bring in a brand when you are starting up, butmake sure that they will offer you product training, that way you find out ingredients, how to use them, how to price them, how to retail themand great hints and tips fromprofessionals who use the brand every day.”
magicmarketing
Transforming a great idea into a fully functioning and successful venture requires attracting a dedicated and loyal clientele.When you’re just starting out, marketing and communicating with potential customers is a vital part to guaranteeing longevity.You can do this through various channels – flyers, posters, print or online advertising, websites, social media etc.
“Have amarketing plan for the first 12 months and review it for the following year to see what was effective and what wasn’t,” recommendsMarie-Louise. “The correct advertising andmarketing are so important because you need to create a brand image and awareness of what your business is and what it offers.
“You need to build a brand so use a logo, certain colours, certain styles of writing etc. This is the first part of your brand building – the second part is creating the experience once the client comes through the door.”
Emma adds: “Offering a special offer in the opening few weeks of your salon and providing quality services will then spread the word, enticingmore andmore people to your salon.”
We all know the power of word ofmouth, withmost people now searching online to investigate companies or locations before we even contemplate investing in their services.When you’re just positioned on the first rung of the beauty business ladder, client referrals can become your best ally, and sites such as
Checkaprofessional.com allow consumers to leave honest and comprehensive feedback online.
Once you have been vetted by the site, you can upload your company profile to showcase your business. Potential clients are then able to view such information as your verified client testimonials, accreditations and services alongside any accompanying images or
videos.Any prospective customer is then free to research a business, safe in the knowledge that all details displayed have been independently verified.
don’t give up!
At times itmay be stressful and youmay feel like giving up, but don’t despair! Creating a business fromscratch is hard work, but watching it flourish into your dreamcan give you the ultimate satisfaction, both professionally and personally.
“The industry can offer somany
opportunities to those who are willing to try it and give it their best!” says Britta. “With determination, willpower and passion you willmake it a success and hopefully look back with a smile!”
“Owning your own business is hard work,
costly (to begin with), tiring and all- consuming but it is probably themost rewarding thing I have ever done,” commentsMarie-Louise. “It takes a self- motivated and resilient person to own a business. Remember this – a successful person never gives up, so if it is what you really want then neithermust you!”
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