What are the benefits of going self-employed in a salon?

If you currently work in, or are looking to join the hair and beauty industry then you will almost definitely come across the dilemma of whether to accept an employed position or  take the plunge and become self-employed. Unfortunately there is no easy answer as both options have advantages and disadvantages and very much depend on personal circumstances. We will look at the pro's and cons of self-employment in this article, but first some background on us.

Background
If you don't know us already then let me introduce the co-owners of the Hideout Hair and Beauty Salon, Allesley Village, Coventry. Haylee has been working in the industry since leaving college. She has had numerous employed roles in salons from junior up to management level. She took the jump into self-employment within a salon in 2011 before opening up the Hideout Hair Salon in 2016. Kimberlee followed a similar route, working in numerous spa venues as head therapist before going self employed and then opening up the Hideout Beauty Salon in 2017.

'self-employment is tough and I have questioned whether it was the thing to do on numerous occasions. I love what we are doing now though and am sure we have a good business and great clients and am looking forward to the future' Haylee

Lets now look at the options open to you once qualified to style hair, carry out beauty treatments etc. First we will bullet point the general advantages and disadvantages before looking specifically within a salon setting as opposed to working from home or on a mobile basis.

The pros and cons of taking an employed position

• Weekly guaranteed income
• Holiday pay
• Limited salary 
• Regulated hours
• Colleagues around to help or hinder you

The pro's and cons of going solo

• ​You are your own boss and make the calls that will affect your business
• You are in control of tax and NI contributions so independent advice may mean you are better off than in an employed role
• You get to work alone (if that's what you like to do)
• Like for like increase in wages (hard work depending)
• Develop your own client base
• Position becomes more than just a job

The Hideout Hair and Beauty Salon, Allesley Village, Coventry

Going self-employed within a salon
You will find many job opportunities within salons that are on a self-employed basis, whether it be renting a chair or room for a fixed cost or on a percentage revenue basis. When accepting a self-employment basis you need to be aware of a few things;

1. You represent the salon and its reputation
2. You will most likely be responsible for the shared cleanliness of the salon
3. The terms of building up and retaining a client base even if you leave will be within your contract, so check it.
4. You will be responsible for building up your own client base

What to expect at The Hideout
Just as we have gone into self-employed positions and built up our own client base we suggest that you do the same. Why, because when you do, your role will take on a persona that goes beyond giving a colour, trim or massage to a long-term relationship that will benefit both of you beyond expectations. We have great respect for our clients and know that a visit to the salon is often much more than a chore.
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We are always looking for professionals with some experience to join the team at the hideout, Coventry and will go out of our way to make you feel at home and help you develop your client base.

If you want a chat about the possibility of joining the Hideout, Coventry team just send us a note or drop in.

We can't wait to see you
Haylee & Kim