Beginning your nail tech career can be quite overwhelming. Deciding which nail tech course you want to do, choosing the right insurance, establishing the service menu… it’s awfully easy to get lost! This is why we asked our Booksy Ambassador, the fabulous Bryony Howell, better known as Bry from Gels By Bry, to share her best tips with us. Her quick guide will make it much easier for you to put your plans in order and get through the harsh starting phase!
Not all nail artists specialise in the same services. And while it’s possible to expand your area of interest as your business grows, it’s best to start with some general idea of which technique you want to study. You can focus on classic manicures, gels, acrylics or shellacs, go more into nail art or focus on spa-style pedicures… it’s all up to you. It’s however important to have at least a vague idea of what you want to do in order to choose the right nail training course.
Most professional technicians agree that trying to cover all the bases is usually not the best idea, especially if you are just starting out and working solo. It’s difficult to be great at every technique and you will probably waste a lot of money on products and equipment that may not even end up being used. Instead, find a few services that really interest you and focus on them.
“Once you decide which treatments you want to offer, whether it be manicures, pedicures, natural nails or extensions, you then need to book into a course”, says Bry. And how can you choose a nail technician course that will fit your needs? Bry explains: “You can train locally to you. Some decide to train with the brand of polish they are planning to use. It’s totally up to you! I recommend doing your research and making sure that the course is accredited and therefore, you can earn the insurance”.
Why is choosing an accredited nail technician course so important in the UK? Accreditation is granted to nail schools that are deemed of high enough quality to educate students up to the industry standard. Only finishing an accredited nail course allows you to gain viable insurance, which, as you may know, is the requirement for starting your business.
Be mindful of the accreditation especially if you are looking into online nail tech courses as well as free nail courses. They may seem much more convenient and cost-effective, but may not be able to grant you the permission you need.
Some aspiring nail technicians prefer to visit big cities for their nail tech course, as you can find a great choice of nail courses in London, Manchester or Birmingham. However, it’s worth checking whether you do not have some great options locally, so it’s worth at least putting “nail tech courses near me” in the search engine.
When it comes to looking for insurance for nail technicians in the UK, it’s also crucial to start with some proper research. Bry recommends using the Internet: “you can do it online, where you can get quotes and compare prices. I decided to go with ABT insurance, but another popular one that people like to go for is Salon Gold”. Do not settle on the first offer! Check what offers are available and don’t shy away from asking questions.
Check ABT’s Nails, Tanning & Makeup Insurance and Salon Gold’s Nail Salon Insurance for more details.
Final words of advice? “It’s always a good idea to keep up with training, so never stop learning”. Indeed, once you are working with clients, it’s easy to rest on your laurels and simply keep providing services. However, if you want to keep on top of the game, self-improvement is key. “Lots of people like to do further courses, such as nail art or training with the e-file”, says Bry. “It’s really really important to keep up to date!”
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