Question:
I will be graduating from beauty school soon and feel fortunate because someone has offered me a job in their salon. My emphasis in school is hair design – specializing in hair extensions. By the way, my school uses Donna Bella “practice” hair extensions.
I want to open my own shop but didn’t really get a lot of training about owning and running a business. Do you think that I could jump in and start a business right away?
Sheffield A – Albany, New York
Answer:
You have great energy and a sense of adventure. Sure, it can be done, but there are associated risks. First of all, it takes a lot of money to set up a professional looking salon. But let’s say that you have the money. Is it still a good idea?
The key to any business is customers! Where are you going to get your clientele? Most stylists build a base of satisfied clients before venturing out on their own. And if you have served them well, loyal customers will follow you, wherever you go.
As soon as you open your own salon, you put on many different business hats. You are the marketing department, accountant, custodian, hairdresser, buyer, and employer along with many other responsibilities. Some stylists don’t want those job titles.
We suggest that you work in salon for the time-being honing your skills as an extension specialist and building a customer base. Observe the responsibilities of the shop owner and learn as much as you can about managing a salon.
This is important! If you decide to work in a salon, then give your employer your best effort and help the business succeed. Then, if you leave to open a salon, you have honestly helped them as much as they have helped you.