We have been talking about continuing education and ways we can learn and stay current in our industry. Last week, we talked about a few ways we can get education at little or no cost to us. We talked about watching tutorials/videos, listening to podcasts, my CD “Building a Nail Department,” and reading industry blogs and magazines. All of these are great tools to help us further our skills, learn product knowledge, and develop our talents.

Sandy took it a step further. She reminded us to not only read, watch, and listen, but to also apply what you have learned and to practice. I agree. We have to set aside time to practice and commit to learning something new. We all know the old saying, “Practice makes perfect!” How will we perfect what we have learned if we don’t practice our craft? Practicing will help us accomplish several things like time management, product consistency, and knowledge about the product. Practicing will help us to eliminate wasting time and develop timely application and care. It will also give us experience.

Think about it, most professions require continuing education to advance or keep their license or certification. When I broke my foot a few weeks ago, I wanted to see the best orthopedic surgeon available. I went to see a doctor at the Twin Cities’ largest orthopedic group. Why? Because, I know they are a huge facility and they specialize in orthopedics. They’re up to date on all of the latest education, physical therapy, surgical procedures, and treatment options. I figure I have about 40-60 more years to walk on this foot. I want to get the best treatment for the most productive healing possible. I knew by going to this establishment, I would get the latest and greatest treatments available to me. When we are seeking any kind of care or customer service, face it, we search out the best.

What about our clients? Do they deserve the best treatments available to them? You betcha they do! (That’s my Minnesota coming out.) Let’s look at an example of a revolutionary product to the industry in the last couple of years: gel -polish. What do we think would happen if a client came in and had this conversation with her nail tech? Client: “My sister was telling about this new nail product that lasts two weeks and doesn’t chip. Have you heard about it?” Nail tech: “I’ve heard about it, but I’m not interested in checking out a new line of polish.”  What do we think will happen in this situation? The client will more than likely ask her sister where she gets her nails done and try this new innovative product. The nail tech, who had no idea about the product, will more than likely lose a client.

Are we using product websites to help us learn about products and continue our education? CND has a great tool that is so easy to use for each product. It simply states: “What it is, what it does, and why you need it.” This is a great way to research their products. They also have videos to help you use the products. They have a great website and a professional log in as well. So you can access information privy to industry professionals.

Think about the phone calls our salons get for services and products. Speaking of which … are we listed on product websites as a salon that provides these products and services? Again, the most user-friendly website that comes to mind is CND. They have a find-a-salon option that helps potential clients to find a salon that provides the services they want. I’m a Master Nail Technician with CND. This means that I have taken accelerated classes to be able to offer services in the manner that CND intended. I am listed as a Master Technician, so anyone who is moving to my area or looking for a nail technician will get my name and salon. Clients know that they will get the name of a nail tech who is certified to perform the services they’re accustomed to receiving. I have been referred several clients from the CND website. Maybe only about six a year, but these clients are serious about their nail care. They usually book standing appointments, purchase retail, and want someone who knows what she is doing. The CND website also lists services that my salon provides along with our salon hours. This is a great service. Clients can see right away if my salon offers the services they are looking for. Check out CND’s website and other product websites for education, product knowledge, and to list your salon. What are some of your favorite websites? Please comment. You could help out another nail technician.

Using product websites to the fullest to improve our education, get new clients, and advance our career — one more way to help you stand out above the rest and become the BEST!

— Jill