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Reader to Reader: Why did you choose to work in the salon you’re in now versus other salons?

December 26, 2010

A main reason I chose the salon I’m in is that the people are all great to work with. During my job interview, I was told drama at the salon is virtually nonexistent, which was important to me. Also, I felt like my business was not growing at my previous salon, but in my current salon, I have grown my business immensely through referrals from salon staff. - LORI ANASTOS, Lisa Ann’s Salon, Wheatridge, Colo.

The salon I work in is great, because it is the only salon I could find that would give a newbie nail tech a chance. Lots of salons seem to be scared of the newbies, but we all need to start somewhere and to learn from the people we work with. This salon gave me that chance two years ago, and I am very happy they did! - JUDI BELL, Clip and Curl Connection, Effingham, Ill.

I chose the salon I’m in now for the people who work here and for the location. The other techs and stylists are professional and there is no drama or gossip. Everyone knows everyone else’s guests and greets them when they come into the salon, and new guests are made to feel comfortable as soon as they walk in the door. The location is on Main Street, which is in the historic portion of the city. It is a tourist attraction, and it is great to tell tourist walk-ins about my city’s history while performing a service for them. Also, the location is within a close-knit community of business people who look out for one another and send business to each other — so it is a win-win situation! - PATTI DERSCH, Main Street Salon, St. Charles, Mo.

I do mostly diabetic pedicures so privacy was a huge issue for me. In addition, I needed to work in a salon that allowed me the freedom to come and go as I needed. The space I chose provided me with a private studio that locked and had doors that could be closed for privacy. I am paying a little higher rent than I would like to but the space was the nicest and offered what I needed. This space also provides security (cameras and keyless entry), washer and dryer, a refrigerator, and other amenities. - MELODIE HAND, Nail Designs by Mel at Panache Styling Studios, Clayton, N.C.

I was getting my hair done at Klip and Kurl, and the salon always wanted a nail tech but there wasn’t enough room at the location. When the salon moved, it increased in space and I was asked to come on board. I’ve been here ever since! - JADA CUNNINGHAM, Klip and Kurl Beauty Salon, Youngstown, Ohio

I choose to work where I do because it is a natural salon/spa. We only do natural nails and use natural products. Other benefits include that as an independent contractor I set my own hours, and, as the only manicurist here, I receive referrals from the other therapists. - PETRA NEWTON, Soul 2 Sole at Renuatum Spa, Christiansted, St. Croix, Virgin Islands

More FAQ

What recourse do I have when a customer promises to pay the next day but doesn’t?

What do you do when your customer says to you after you are finished her set of nails, “Oh I forgot my purse at home, can I come back tomorrow and pay you?” And she never comes back. What recourse do you have?... read more

Is it appropriate to inform my clients that I am going to a new spa to work?

Is it appropriate to inform my clients that I am going to a new spa to work? I’m an employee. I signed no contract. I would tell them if they wish to follow I will be at XXX but if not there will still be someone to take care of them at this salon.... read more

When the owner offers a free service with a manicure, should I be paid my share of the free service since I am doing the labor?

I am working for a salon on a 60/40 split. The salon owner gets 60%. When the owner offers a free service with a manicure, should I be paid my share of the free service since I am doing the labor?... read more

Reader to Reader: How do you politely ask moms not to bring their babies and toddlers with them to their nail appointments?

How do you politely ask moms not to bring their babies and toddlers with them to their nail appointments?... read more

A Change for the Better: Is there one part of your job you wish you could change?

We know you love being a nail tech, but everybody’s got at least one gripe, right? We asked readers to tell us: Is there one part of your job you wish you could change?... read more

I’m thinking about advertising in my local paper. Is this a good idea?

I’ve been a tech for one year and am having trouble building a clientele. I’m thinking about advertising in my local paper. Is this a good idea?... read more

How do I evaluate a booth rental situation?

I’m shopping around for a booth rental situation. What questions should I ask a prospective salon owner? What factors should I consider?... read more

Reader to Reader: When it comes to other techs duplicating your nail art, is imitation the sincerest form of flattery?

When it comes to other techs duplicating your nail art designs, is imitation the sincerest form of flattery? (And where do you personally draw the line?)... read more

Reader to Reader: Do you practice what you preach when it comes to having impeccable nails?

Do you practice what you preach when it comes to having impeccable nails? (If yes, always, how do you fit it into your busy schedule?)... read more

Do you object to the term "nail girl"?

We made the switch from “manicurist” to “nail technician” to reflect a more professional image. Yet to some clients, we’ll always be their nail “girl.” We asked nail techs if this somewhat-less-than-respectful term was OK with them.... read more

What are the pros and cons of a booth rental situation?

I’ve worked as an employee, but now I plan to work as a nail tech on a booth rental basis for the first time. I’m wondering what the main benefits and disadvantages of this type of arrangement are, and how I can get the most out of it to maximize my earnings.... read more

Reader to Reader: Should you fire an employee for bad-mouthing the salon?

Should you fire an employee for bad-mouthing the salon (when she thinks no one else at the salon is listening)?... read more