Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Business

How do I find a manicurist [employee] who cares about building a business?

May 1, 2008

I’m tired of nail techs who make only a minimal effort and expect me (the salon owner) to do everything for them. How can I find a manicurist who cares about building a business?

We teach people how to treat us and if they think you are going to do things for them, I would have you look at who taught them that. Recruiting practices and policies go a long way. Also ask yourself if you have a clear written vision for your business. Do you have written systems people can work from that include operating policies, procedures, and service systems?

You should also include what you expect from them as well as what they want from their career and how much money they want to make. You can hold people accountable to what they say they want more easily than you can for what you want for them, however noble that may be.

Do a minimum of three interviews and have someone else there to get a different point of view. Ask juicy questions about the candidate and her dreams to get a good sense of her. The best place to recruit is a school since you can mold your new tech. I believe that the grass is green where you water it; good people are out there, I promise. — April Poster is a consultant and trainer with Salon Training International

More FAQ

What’s the maximum amount of jewelry that’s appropriate to wear as a nail tech in a salon?

What’s the maximum amount of jewelry that’s appropriate to wear as a nail tech in a salon?... read more

How do I fire a nail tech?

I have to fire one of my nail techs. I’ve never done anything like that before. Any advice?... read more

When asked by a client, how do I justify my higher prices compared to a discount salon?

How should I respond when clients ask me why they should pay a higher price for my services rather than go to a discount salon?... read more

Any advice on firing a nail tech?

I have to fire one of my nail techs. I’ve never done anything like that before. Any advice?... read more

How should I respond when clients ask me why they should pay a higher price for my services?

How should I respond when clients ask me why they should pay a higher price for my services rather than go to a discount salon?... read more

How do I reach teens and tweens?

I’m having trouble reaching the teens and tweens. They don’t seem to want to come in and get services done, especially enhancement services like gels and acrylics.... read more

Do you discuss politics in the salon?

Many of us were taught in nail school that a few topics of conversation are off limits — including politics. But given the drawn-out and hotly contested nature of the election season we just passed, the subject was hard to avoid. NAILS asked readers: Do you discuss politics in the salon?... read more

Reader to Reader: How do you fire a client?

How do you fire a client?... read more

How do I recruit nail techs in California where it seems there is a smaller and smaller number getting their licenses?

There seems to be a smaller and smaller pool of nail technicians getting their licenses in California. I’m having a very hard time finding nail techs. Any suggestions?... read more

How do I increase my business? The discount salons have taken business right out from under us.

My problem is I’ve had no increase in business. When I advertise, I get no calls. The discount salons in the area have taken our business right out from under us.... read more

Reader to Reader: Is having a salon website a must in today’s environment?

Is having a salon website a must in today’s environment?... read more

Dear Shari: How can I get people to get regular pedicures and try nail art?

How can I get people to get regular pedicures and try nail art? Sincerely, No Regularity... read more