Starting a career as a lash artist is an exciting journey filled with creativity and the potential to make clients feel beautiful and confident. However, building a steady clientele can be challenging when you're just starting out. Here are some effective tips and strategies to help you grow your client base and establish a successful lash business.
1. Perfect Your Skills
Continuous Learning: Enroll in reputable lash extension courses to perfect your technique and stay updated with the latest trends. Even though most lash courses will contain the same basic information, seasoned artists have all found what works best for them and you can gather your favorite techniques and use them to build your own way of doing things. High-quality work is the foundation of building a loyal clientele.
Practice Makes Perfect: Practice on friends and family to refine your skills. Offer discounted or free sessions in exchange for honest feedback and portfolio photos in the beginning. Once you are established, be leery of offering discounts as they can cheapen your clientele and also bring in people who are looking for a deal rather than looking for quality.
2. Create an Online Presence
Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are perfect for showcasing your work. Post high-quality photos and videos of your lash extensions, including before-and-after shots. Use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience that are inclusive of your city and surrounding areas to where you are providing services.
Website: Create a professional website that includes information about your services, pricing, booking options, and a portfolio of your work. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Pro tip: choose a booking software that requires a credit card on file in case of no shows to help protect your valuable time.
Online Reviews: Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Positive reviews build credibility and attract new clients.
3. Networking and Collaborations
Local Businesses: Partner with local beauty salons, spas, and boutiques to cross-promote each other’s services. You can offer to do a free set of lashes for their staff in exchange for referrals, or host small events that bring people in to meet you and some of the other local businesses you support.
Industry Events: Attend beauty industry events, trade shows, and workshops. Networking with other professionals can lead to referrals and valuable business insights.
Influencers and Bloggers: If the vibe is right, offer complimentary or discounted lash services to local influencers and bloggers in exchange for a shoutout on their social media platforms. Their followers are likely to trust their recommendations and book your services.
4. Offer Promotions and Loyalty Programs
Introductory Offers: Attract new clients with special introductory offers or discounts. For example, offer a discount on their first appointment or a free brow tint or small add on service with their first full set of extensions.
Referral Program: Create a referral program that rewards clients for bringing in new customers. For instance, offer a discount on their next appointment for every new client they refer. Returning clients will be more likely to refer their friends, family, and coworkers in exchange for a small discount on a service they’re paying for regularly.
Loyalty Program: Implement a loyalty program to retain clients. Offer a free fill after a certain number of appointments or provide exclusive discounts or early access to new services for loyal customers. Another personalized thing that clients love is a little extra love on their birthday- offer them some extra time to get their lashes super full for festivities or if you’re feeling generous, a discount on their fill for their birthday.
5. Exceptional Customer Service
Consultations: Offer free consultations to understand your clients' needs and preferences. This shows you care about their satisfaction and helps build a personalized experience. To take this a step further, implement their own photos in creating a set customized to their face and eye shape- being able to go further in the consultation process and show them what the final result will look like will help build their confidence levels.
Comfortable Environment: Ensure your workspace is clean, comfortable, and inviting. A relaxing environment can enhance the overall experience and encourage repeat visits. Make sure it smells good but is not overpowering, with soft comfort items and a comfortable workspace for you and for them- it’s appreciated especially during longer appointments.
Follow-Ups: Follow up with clients after their appointments to ensure they are satisfied with their lashes and to remind them of aftercare tips. This extra touch shows you care about their experience and helps build a strong relationship. Building an aftercare kit into the cost of full sets with a lash shampoo and brush to wash their lashes will help keep their natural lashes healthy and make your job easier as well.
6. Professional Marketing
Business Cards and Flyers: Distribute business cards and flyers in local businesses, gyms, cafes, and community centers. Ensure they include your contact information, social media handles, and a brief description of your services.
Email Marketing: Collect email addresses from clients and send them regular updates about promotions, new services, and beauty tips. Personalized emails can help keep your clients engaged and informed.
Paid Advertising: Invest in targeted online advertising on social media platforms and search engines. Use precise targeting options to reach potential clients in your area.
7. Stay Updated with Trends
Trend Awareness: Keep up with the latest lash trends and techniques. Offering trendy styles and innovative services can set you apart from competitors and attract clients looking for the latest looks. Stay plugged in to the styles that are trending currently and be able to offer those to your clientele.
Continuous Improvement: Always seek feedback from your clients and be open to constructive criticism. Continuously improving your skills and services will help you provide the best possible experience.
Final Thoughts
Building a clientele as a new lash artist takes time, dedication, and strategic effort. By focusing on perfecting your skills, creating a strong online presence, networking, offering promotions, providing exceptional customer service, and staying updated with trends, you'll be well on your way to establishing a thriving lash business. Remember, consistency and a positive attitude are key. Happy lashing!