Hairdressers generally charge a set price for the work or style that is carried out; you can help customers by creating a price list to inform them. You need to charge an honest price for the services and quality you can offer; if you develop a reputation for quality you may be able to increase your prices in the future.
There are two main types of hairdressers, and you need to know which area you are heading into. There is the more modern salon style of hairdressing, which follows fashions and styles actively; and the more traditional hairdressers, who tend to ignore fashions. The latter type is suffering a decline, but generally requires less training, as the work is primarily cutting the hair rather than styling it.
A recent development for freelance or home hairdressers is the rise of the “Rent a Chair” idea. This is where you can rent a chair in a salon, carrying out work whilst paying either a monthly rent or amount per customer. This allows you to still operate from home, but utilising the benefits of a salons location and customers.
The Rent a Chair idea has been popular; a survey in 2000 by the Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA) found that over 14% of salons have at least one rented chair. Some salons also rent out treatment rooms to those that can offer additional services, such as beauty treatments.
Hairdressing businesses usually gain customers through local advertising (E.g.: Local newspaper) and through appearing in local directories (E.g.: Yellow Pages, Thompson Directory).
The hairdressing business is a very competitive one, with many new salons opening and many old ones closing each year. However, if you provide a good service at a reasonable price, the opportunities for success and expansion are definitely there.
Pro:
You can operate from your home or by visiting the customer’s home.
This type of business is easy to start if you have the ability.
By Renting a Chair you can benefit from a salon’s location and customer base whilst remaining home based.
Con:
There is a huge amount of competition in most areas.
Customers may feel uncomfortable being in your house.
Skill Level = Medium
Start up Costs = Low
Training = Short and long courses
Experience = Needed, the more the better
Equipment Costs = Low
Transport Required = Yes
No of Staff (incl. you) = 1
