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I’m trying to set myself up as a mobile nail tech – what should I keep in mind and how do I get my name out there?

If you’re transitioning from working in a beauty salon or home-based set-up, going mobile can offer more flexibility, less overheads and, ultimately, more freedom. However, there is a lot to consider before going mobile – from ensuring you have the correct kit, to managing your own finances and getting the right insurance.

Being a mobile nail technician gives you the flexibility to work whenever and wherever you choose. It can be learned relatively quickly – in as little as a week full-time – and can easily fit around other jobs, making it a good choice if you’re looking to make extra income.

Remember: being your own boss also means spending (unpaid) time managing your finances and various admin tasks.

To get your name out there you can do everything from a local leaflet drop, adverts in the local press, setting up a website and launching a social media campaign. To attract as many clients as possible, you may want to offer an opening week or month special.

Make sure you’re also on beauty booking websites if they serve your area. You can most likely set up a business page for free and a commission is taken from every booking made via the site.

Getting the word out

“Word of mouth is the key,” award-winning manicurist Roxanne Campbell of Revarnish London says. “Once you do a brilliant job, the customer will become a loyal, regular client and tell their family and friends about your company. This will create a domino effect and it’s free.”

Metta Francis, founder of mobile nail business Nails By Mets, reveals that building a great website was key to her early success: “I spent a lot of time building my website and learning SEO (Search Engine Optimisation),” she explained.

“Back then, social media wasn’t such a big catalyst and many first-time clients found me by simply Googling and looking for a mobile nail technician/nail artist. This was a massive win for me as it created credibility, simply by having a professional looking website and Google reviews. Encouraging clients to leave reviews and spread the word also helped me build my client base.

“I would network at events that Nails by Mets was booked for too, which led to more industry events. In fact, I did a number of test photoshoots to build up my editorial portfolio, which led to session opportunities also.”

Francis explains that social media is “often used as a search engine now for clients looking for nail art or bridal nails, for example. I try not to spend so long on social media but it’s all in the planning. Content generally needs to be interesting, high quality and show off your best work.

“Platforms like Stories, Reels and TikTok videos that show the process before/after, and even showing yourself tend to be the best performing posts. Static posts and photos also create a brilliant gallery/portfolio that clients can refer to.”

The above information is an excerpt from a broader article about mobile services on https://professionalbeauty.co.uk/site/newsdetails/ how-to-make-it-as-a-mobile-nail-technician