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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

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