The First Steps to Becoming a Freelance Hairdresser

The First Steps to Becoming a Freelance Hairdresser

on Jan 8, 2023 in Small business

Making the leap to becoming self-employed is always a daunting one, but it’s also exciting to go into business for yourself and be your own boss. Becoming a freelancer means that you’re in direct control of your clients and your schedule, meaning that you can have more freedom and flexibility when you need it.

However, this doesn’t mean that being a freelance hairdresser is entirely a walk in the park. There are things that you have to consider before you can take your first steps as a freelancer.

  1. Getting Qualified

Before you can consider becoming a freelance hairdresser, or entering the hair styling industry at all, you need to make sure that you have the appropriate qualifications. True, there’s nothing stopping you from cutting your friend’s or family’s hair if all you have is a pair of scissors and a bit of knowledge, but you will need a qualification before you can trade as a hairdresser.

You can find different hairdressing courses online to see appropriate ones near your location. A good hairdressing course will also include some practical, hands-on experience so that your clients can be assured that you know exactly what you’re doing. 

Many freelance hairdressers start off as salon hair stylists, which allows them to get the practical experience that they need. You can also take further, more specialized training, which can be a draw to your customers. 

  1. Setting Up a Business

Once you’re qualified, your next step is to make sure that you’re ready to start a business. No matter the industry, every business has similar steps and loopholes to go through before you can start trading. 

You need to name your business and come up with a business plan and niche, such as hairdressing. Then you need to register your business with your local government authority and make sure that you’re covered when it comes to taxes and licenses.

You should also consider how to fund your business. Some businesses require more investment than others, but it’s best to have some starting capital. You might be able to fund it with your own cash, but many small business owners ask for a business loan from a bank, which means that you need to have a plan for how to spend your money and make a profit.

  1. Preparing to Open

Once all the legal requirements and paperwork have been sorted out, you can then move on to opening your business. As a hairdresser, you have a few options. Many people simply set up hairdressing chairs from home, but it’s often a good idea to rent a commercial space to work from. 

You definitely should rent a commercial space as your business grows and if you’re considering taking on more employees. Another option is to approach an existing salon and rent a chair or space, so you have your own customers and supplies, but you’re working from another salon.

No matter how you choose to operate, make sure that you’re well stocked up and you can start cutting and styling hair in no time.

Image source: Unsplash.com

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