Behind your beauty business: mobile vs. salon

As a beauty lover, there’s no denying you’re passionate about wanting to make people look and feel their best. But when it’s time to take the first step or the next step in your beauty career, how do you know which is the right move for your lifestyle? According to NHBF, we know there has been a massive growth of 45% in the number of beauty businesses over the past five years. 

Choosing to work in a salon or taking the plunge and going mobile both have their challenges, but equally provide some amazing opportunities. Keep reading to explore the benefits of working in a salon and setting up a mobile business. 

Going mobile

As a mobile business, you would typically be expected to travel to a client’s home or chosen location to carry out your services. You’ll have the opportunity to build a loyal client base, whilst perfecting the skills that will help set you apart from the competition. 

1. Flexibility 

Being your own boss means you can work with your clients to agree appointment times that work with your schedule. It also means you can choose to work from anywhere you wish- which can even mean opportunities for trips overseas! 

2. Financial independence

Whilst the prospect of being solely responsible for your income can be daunting, it also presents a very exciting opportunity. You can set your own rates, choose your clients and how much work to take on – there is no limit to how much revenue you could earn. 

3. Offer a specialist service 

As the owner you can create a business centred around your talent and passion, which could include film and television makeup, special effects, bridal, party, and even Halloween! You could create your own signature style and become recognised in the industry. 

Working in a salon 

Perhaps the main difference between working in a salon or going mobile, is the work environment. Being stationed in a salon will mean you will be in the same space for most of your working day, which may be ideal if you’re looking for stability in a career. 

1. Regular clients 

If you’ve picked a salon in the right location, you could see your appointment book filling up very quickly with clients. The reputation of the salon will often come with an established client base, so you never have to worry about where your next client will come from. The benefit of a bricks and mortar space also welcomes opportunities for spontaneous walk in clients- which often keep salons afloat.

2. A reliable team 

Working as part of a team means you always have at least one other beauty professional to count on for advice or support. It’s a great place to learn and share skills and tips, whilst having the opportunity to invest in training and professional development. It also means you can continue to have a good work/life balance without compromising the service your clients receive.

3. Consistent income 

Reporting to the salon owner will mean a regular monthly pay cheque, which is ideal when you’re just starting out. You could agree a set amount of hours per week in exchange for a salary, so you won’t need to worry about finding clients. It also means you’re confined to the salon opening times, so those often unsociable working hours that come with a mobile business, are no longer an issue. 

Whether you choose to go out on your own or settle with a salon, at Walsall College we can provide you with the tools to help you decide. We have a state of the art beauty studio complete with industry expert masterclasses that can help answer those important questions.

Apply now to secure your place for September.  See our Beauty courses.