8 Skills You Need as a Successful Solo Lash Artist
Are you interested in becoming your own lash boss, but aren't sure what type of skills are involved? Here's a quick guide on the types of personal skills you definitely need in order to succeed.
1. Confidence!
You need to have to ability to exude confidence in the way you speak and in your technical skills. This is how you build client rapport and trust when growing and retaining your clientele. From the moment you start educating your client about lash care to when you are putting your skills to the test lashing, you are in control!
2. Great Customer Service
What does good customer service include? When it comes to lashing it means you're knowledgeable and professional. Show command and educate your client on the ins and outs of taking care of their eyelashes. When they have questions about how eyelash extensions work, make sure you have the answer ready and if you don't, research so you can answer them in the future. Show your professionalism by being on time, answering inquiries in an appropriate amount of time, and think about your response before you accidentally say something you might regret later. Although you may get a client that is snippy, keep your cool and respond as professionally as you can.
3. Major Multitasking
Working as a solo lash artist means that you wear many hats. You are your own marketing manager, staff, receptionist, and CEO. Because you'll be taking on many roles, it's important that you are capable of switching gears and adapting quickly.
4. Boundaries
Many new lash artists have a difficult time creating healthy boundaries with clients. Set precedents early on and save yourself the stress and headache! Clearly outline your studio policies like cancellations, bookings, and deposits. It can be easy to let one person here and there slide but we highly recommend that you don't. Have a set hours of operation and refrain from responding past late hours. Someone who messages you at 1am can wait for a response until your normal opening time. You deserve time away from work too.
5. Divide and Conquer
When you get to a point in your business where you know you cannot effectively fulfill every role yourself and still give your client's the attention they need, know when it's time to hire outside help! This could be like someone who manages your social media, a virtual assistant who responds to your messages, or an accountant who handles your finances.
6. Time Management
Because lash services are part of the appointment based industry, it's important that you stay on task and manage your time well. When you are early and prepared, you ensure a smooth service for your client without multiple interruptions. If you're client is late, you must know how to take control and work within the amount of time you've booked for them. If you choose to run over on time, it will bleed into your next appointment and the next after. There are some cases where time isn't a constraint and you'll be able to accommodate a late client, but don't set a precedent that being late is okay; your client should value your time as well. When lashing under a time restriction, remember to create an even look, even if you don't cover every natural eyelash.
7. Money Management
This one is definitely a no brainer! The main objective of any business is to generate revenue, so you've got to be well versed in managing your business finances. If you're unaware of what's coming in and out of your bank account, there's no away you can make educated business decisions. If this is out of your depth, research a reputable accountant that you trust to help you out.
8. Learning and Adaptability
It's natural in life for things to change. The lash industry itself is constantly evolving and upgrading so it makes sense that you do too! It's important to keep up with new techniques and products because trends switch up and so do products as professionals develop new science. If you stay stuck in your ways, you're at risk of letting