Business

Reader to Reader: In regards to your nail business, what has been your smartest investment?

January 2, 2011

The smartest investment for my nail business is continuing education. It’s important to be open to learning new trends to stay on track with the changes in the industry. ~ CARMEN JIMENEZ, Envy Nail Couture, Charlotte, N.C.

I have to say the Internet! Sending reminder e-mails has increased my retention rate, sending last-minute opening e-mails and newsletters has increased my referral rate. Staying in touch with those in the business and keeping myself educated has also kept me fresh and creative and clients love it. ~ TERESA SHACKELTON, Tee’s Nail NV, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada

I always believe investing in education is vital but I couldn’t live without my OPI cuticle pusher! I have had it for years and it’s as wonderful as the day I purchased it. Clients are always asking where they can get one. ~ DEBBIE BREW, Jenniffer & Co., Mentor, Ohio

Minx, social networking such as Facebook, and entering an elite Canadian photography-based beauty competition called the Contessa Awards. This has opened up brand new doors for me that would not be available otherwise. ~ LAURA MERZETTI, Scratch My Back Nail Studio, Ajax, Ontario, Canada

A top-grade e-file, hands down! (No pun intended.) ~ ELISABETH WEBSTER, PussyKat Nails, Victoria, B.C., Canada

Two smart investments I have made are continuing education and developing good working relationships with my co-workers. These are actually investments in myself. An example regarding education: I am a commission-based employee and work with two other full-time nail techs. When a new guest calls to book gels, I get the appointment. This is a direct result of my taking the initiative to learn a new product (OPI Axxium…I love it!) and practice, practice, practice. Second, by developing and maintaining good working relationships with my co-workers I have been able to pick up some new ideas and learn techniques that may be new to me but old hat to another tech. ~ LAURA MOORE, Tocaloma Spa and Salon at the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs, Phoenix

My Young Nails Magic Wand and acrylic brushes transformed how I did nails; now I don’t stress about the outcome! Plus the time I invested in Internet marketing and social groups...priceless. ~ ADRIENNE SCHODTLER, Blissful Lounge, Apex, N.C.

Topics:client retention marketing/promotions business tools Minx reader surveys nail trends OPI Products employee management electric files learning new techniques continuing education Young Nails sustainable business

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