
The Beauty Pro Book Club: 4 Reads to Inspire Growth and Success
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
This month we asked nail techs: What are your best time-saving tips?


I have 10 sets of implements and drill bits, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning them in between clients; I can do it after my work day.
@oohnicenails
Via Instagram

Time yourself during each stage of your work. Knowing where and how you spend your time helps you learn where you may need the most training and work to increase your speed.
@heatherdierkens
Via Instagram

After I did an e-file course with Lysa Comfort I shortened my time per client by 15-25 minutes.
@studio_amelie
Via Instagram

Keep your head down! I often forget to keep working when I’m looking directly at my client or engaging in conversation. You’ll be surprised how much time can be saved by keeping your head down and your eyes on those gorgeous fingers. I’ve shaved several minutes off my service with this one small adjustment.
@nailzbyadrienne
Via Instagram

Help your team members! If you see a client waiting, get her soaking for your teammate (even if she is early). We usually have a few minutes free between clients.
@tipsnailbar
Via Instagram

I set up my nail station for the first appointment of the day before I leave work. I try to make it into work an hour before my first client, but if I have worked late the night before, I still come in at least half an hour before. During this time, I will clean the bathroom, check messages, return calls (if after 9:00 am), and do what I can before my first client. While my client’s nails are drying, I wash implements, fill the pedicure tub, record sales, etc. It is important that the client does not feel like her time is over when I get up to do different chores, so I engage her in conversation as I’m working on these tasks. Now I know why I am so tired at the end of my work day!
Vickie Chalk Meador
Via Facebook

One of my best time-saving tricks would be stamping my nail art. Some of the most common nail art requests (chevron, swirls, flowers, etc.) are easiest to stamp. Instead of taking a good five minutes per nail I can stamp it and have it perfect within seconds. My clients love the “new” technique and I love how quick and easy it is!
Ashley Donnelly
Nails by Ashley Donnelly, Hope Mills, N.C.

Apply cuticle remover before you shape the free edge of the nail, so that when you move on to the cuticle work the dead skin is easily removed.
@themeticulousmanicurist
Via Instagram

Always have the next step in your mind during a set, and always know your final nail result.
@nailsbycharlott
Via Instagram

When a returning client has been wrapped to remove their gel-polish, make good use of the time by making your client a hot drink, choosing their next color and design, getting your products ready, and booking their next appointment.
@artisticnailsandeyebeauty
Via Instagram
Next question:
Save
Save
Save
Save

Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!

The most successful salon suites balance personality, function, and comfort. Megan Communale of My Salon Suite shares her best advice for designing a space that supports your business goals and leaves a lasting impression on every guest.

Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.

When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex

Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex

Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.

A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.

Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.

This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.

Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.

The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex

Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.

Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex

This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.

Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.

Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro

Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.