More of us are joining the gig economy. The idea of working for ourselves is something that many of us aspire to achieve. In some industries, it’s easier than others to break into the freelancing world. It can be extremely lucrative to do so. The freelance nail specialist niche is expected to grow quicker than the rest of the economy. Thus, it is making it an ideal industry to jump into. We’re going to set out everything that you need to know to become a freelance nail technician.

What is a Freelance Nail Specialist?

A freelance nail technician is someone who provides a service that offers beauty treatments for your fingernails and toenails. These services can include manicures, pedicures, acrylic nails, cuticle grooming and the removal of gel nail polish. Nail specialists usually have some form of training within the industry. So that, they can offer everything from a simple French manicure to more intricate designs. Cosmetology schools train nail techs on how to groom your nails. They can offer treatments for both your hands and nails. If you provide pedicure services, you’ll also offer foot spa treatments and massages.

While some nail technicians chose to work in-house at a salon or spa, freelance nail specialists offer their services more flexibly. Mobile nail tech can offer their services outside of regular working hours. Freelance nail technicians can work from their own home. They can go directly to their client, or offer their services on a rolling basis to health spas. When you are working freelance, it is your sole responsibility to promote your nail services. You have to build your clientele to make your business sustainable. You can learn more below how to connect with your prospective clients.

How Do I Become a Freelance Nail Specialists?

Depending on what state you live in, you’ll need to pass a state-approved cosmetology or nail technician program. It’s always best to research the specific requirements for your local authority, and you can find this out by contacting your local government agencies.

Some states may require you to have a license to trade as a freelance nail specialist. In these cases, you’ll need to be over the age of 16 and have a high school diploma. Once you have finished your cosmetology program, you’ll have to sit both a written and practical exam to get your license from the state board. As you’ll be operating as a freelance nail specialist, your state might require a separate license.

You can check out the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology, which provides information about the exams that you have to pass to get your license, as well as offering sample questions to help you practice.

What Skills Do I Need To Become a Freelance Nail Specialist?

If you’re interested in becoming a freelance nail specialist, there is more to it than just offering a manicure service. You’ll be running your own business which means that you’ll need to have the skills required to be an entrepreneur. To become a successful freelance nail specialist, you’ll need to know how to price your service, keep records for accounting and effectively promote your business.

The beauty industry is known for its focus on customer service. Customers believe that they develop a relationship with their hairstylist, makeup artist and nail technician. You’ll need to have the interpersonal relationship skills required to help you grow a loyal customer base to help increase your profitability.

You’ll also need to be a creative person to become a freelance nail specialist. Clients will often come to you with a vague idea of what they want, and you’ll be expected to translate it into reality. You will need to stay on top of all the latest trends within the nail industry and continue to offer new designs to encourage new customers to try your services.

As you’ll be working with small and sharp tools, you’ll need to have a high level of concentration. Health and safety is an important consideration when you’re a freelance nail specialist, and you’ll need to know how to keep your tools sanitary.

Why Should I Become a Freelance Nail Specialist?

We are spending more than ever before on our appearance and grooming. Whether it’s beauty products or treatments, we’re focusing more of our hard-earned money on improving our appearance.

As the beauty and wellness industry continues to expand, the demand for specialist nail services is projected to increase. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that by 2029 there will be a 19% increase in nail technician jobs, meaning this niche is growing faster than the average for all occupations. BLS predicts that there will be almost 30,000 more manicurists employed in the United States by 2029. It is expected that the majority of this growth results from the increase in freelance nail specialists.

Due to the increase in focus on our health and wellness, the demand for beauty services in increasing. More of us are focusing on our grooming, and are willing to spend more money on beauty services and products.

The median hourly pay for a manicurist is $12.39, with the highest 10% earning more than $17.66 per hours, which is standard within the personal care industry. As a freelance nail specialist, you’ll be able to set your own hours and the rate that matches your level of expertise. While working freelance, you can choose to either work full time for eight hours a day or to work part-time around other commitments like looking after children.

Most freelancers don’t work a strict 9-5, as you have the flexibility to work whenever you chose. As a freelance nail specialist, you could end up working at the weekend or late in the evening. This is to accommodate particular clients and their schedule.

If you have an interest in manicures & nail art, then becoming a freelance nail specialist might be right up your street. You could join a growing industry that is likely to develop at a record speed in the next few years. Becoming your own boss can be a perfect career move if you’re independent and have an entrepreneurial spirit.

How to Connect with your Clients

Professional nail specialists can easily connect with prospective clients because there are online platforms that connect service providers and customers looking for nail care services and other services related to haircuts, hairstyling, manicure, pedicure, massage and facials. You can achieve this because you can simply sign up for free as Service Provider at Indulge Now. Meeting the state license and other regulatory requirements, a traveling nail tech can create profile and list the nail care services without paying subscription fees. Once your profile is complete, indulgence seeking clients can search you. Because of the accessibility, potential customers can request an appointment.