This being NAILS’ “Idea Issue,” we thought we’d find out if you think it’s wise to share ideas with other salons. We asked a salon owner, an employee, and a both renter this very question, and receive three different responses.

SALON OWNER

LEE GARIPOLI

Mankind

Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

My response is two-fold. I think of the information you’re sharing has something to do with the general function of a business, like a computer system or a successful retail product, then it’s professional and beneficial to share information with other salons.

But, if it’s something your salon does that is unique from others, I say absolutely don’t share this information. I think that’s what distinguishes a business, generates a clientele, and separate who’s successful from who’s not.

There are two salons in the area that I’m friendly with. Both cater primarily to women, so (since Mankind caters exclusively to men) there’s only a slight bit of competition. We do a good job of pushing business to each other, like when a man comes into my salon and wants a salon recommendation for his wife. I think if you’re honest and up front about the type of business relationship you want, then being friendly with other salon owners can work really well.

EMPLOYEE

PATTY CHAVEZ

Halo

Rio Rancho, N.M.

To be honest, sharing with other salons isn’t something I go out of my way to do. After all, we’re in competition with other area nail techs. Plus, it doesn’t seem to help to show other nail techs your ideas and techniques, because the nails never come out the same. (I think this is because every tech does things slightly differently.) And, in time, we all hear and see what’s new and trendy sooner or later anyway.

If a nail tech specifically asked me for advice or wanted to learn some techniques from me, in that case, I would be more than happy to show her. I’m confident enough in myself to know that I’m good at what I do; if someone wants to learn from me, it’s flattering. I just think it’s not necessarily wise to go out of your way to share with others salons.

BOOTH RENTER

MONICA LEIPER

Salon Diego

San Diego

I’m always willing to share ideas and, in turn, many have felt comfortable sharing back with me. One way I’ve recently done this is by dropping off my service menu to other salon owners and techs, mentioning that I’m available if they ever need a place to refer extra clients. This has worked out quite a few times, and, during my first six months. I even paid them back by offering $5 for each referral.

I also think it’s wise to carpool with other techs when attending out-of-town classes. After all, they may like the brand you use, which is a reason for the two of you to start to network. This can come in handy later when an emergency happens and you need a place to send your clients. Also being friendly with other techs can be useful when you book a large group and need a partner to do the services with.

I believe each salon has a unique character and clientele, so there’s no reason to lose sleep over sharing information. Let the shopper choose for convenience, personality, and salon style freely.

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