Donning New Hats

So much has happened in the past five months! Adrienne has formed a solid reputation that's not only growing rapidly, but she has also given the idea of "having your nails done" a totally different meaning. For many new nail techs coming into a full-service salon, you begin with your back against the wall. So many times salons hire any nail techs they can find. The owner usually doesn't have the technical knowledge for training a newbie, and within a few months you have a frustrated nail tech who usually quits and a reputation that the nail department at that salon stinks!

 

Adrienne walked into that very situation. Not only has her walk-in rate increased, but her referral rate has tripled! Even yesterday she had two new referral clients. Because of her continued hard work and professional approach, Adrienne has solidified her success. You go girl!

 

The next challenge to work on? Adrienne has spent the past few years in business and technical education. The staff at her salon knows she's the "go to girl" for any questions regarding changes in policy, dress code, services, front desk approach, etc. Even her boss has so much respect for her that she consults Adrienne on many upcoming decisions. While flattering, it's also time-consuming, and it's really developing a different type of role for Adrienne.

 

So many technicians will prove themselves in this way and create a whole lot of extra work for themselves. For some it's exactly what they want as a way to develop new skills and to build longevity in the business. We all know that we can't do nails forever, so what's next? Learning skills in management, ownership, inventory, product knowledge, distributorship, etc. will create many different types of opportunities down the road when stepping back from behind the desk becomes a reality. It also can create a different type of pay structure in many cases by introducing salary or hourly wages, in addition to commission behind the chair.

 

How does one take on more duties and still keep balance? When the schedule is full behind the chair, when do you fit in these management duties? When you're at work are your peers your peers, or are you their manager? Are you wearing two different hats, one of tech, one of manager, every day? So many owners are also service providers and spend so many hours working "in" the business there's no time to work "on" the business. That's when things fail. Not enough hours in the day and before you know it, weeks go by without setting up that new promo, staff meeting, etc.

 

While it's exciting to be asked to take on a new role with new responsibilities, spend time discussing all the ins and outs of the job. Really understand what's involved before making the leap. Make sure your life's in balance, your work roles are clearly defined, and everybody wins!

 

—Heather, success coach