What to Consider Before Becoming a Mobile Nail Tech
Thinking about taking your nail tech business on the road? Becoming a mobile nail tech is a popular career choice, but like anything, it has its pros and cons.
We spoke to our member, Gemma (@bathkinbeauty), about what to consider before becoming a mobile nail tech.
Scroll to discover what over 20 years of industry experience has taught her, how she juggles traveling, and her top product recommendations for mobile nail techs…
Becoming mobile can be a great way to differentiate yourself, dictate your own hours, and open up new opportunities with clients who can’t or prefer not to travel.
“The biggest pro of being a mobile nail tech is going into clients’ houses and them being at their most comfortable. It makes my treatments so much more relaxing for them,” says Gemma.
“I worked in a salon and spas for 8 years before becoming mobile,” she continues, noting that her mobile journey started once she had children.
However, as with any new mode of operating, there are certain things you’ll need to take into account.
Travel & Pricing
“The biggest con about being a mobile nail tech is the constant travel and trying to work your diary to suit your previous location,” Gemma told us.
You will want to establish a radius and consider whether you’ll charge extra for travel outside that radius.
Consider how much time the travel is likely to take out of your day, bearing in mind you’ll be able to see fewer clients than in your own space.
Also, consider parking or public transport access for each client, as well as travel costs.
“I only travel so many miles away, so that is factored into my hourly rate, and I ALWAYS ask any new clients where they are located first, before we go any further” Gemma said.
Packing Your Supplies
Gemma recommends having a separate bag for each treatment.
“One bag fits all doesn’t work,” she says. “It’s too much to carry! Separate your bags by treatment and only carry in what you need.”
Consider investing in high-quality portable equipment. Gemma told us her favorite travel bags are Roo Beauty bags, but they have gone into administration.
“I have found similar bags on Amazon, though!” she said. “I don’t take my own table or chair; I usually work on a dining table, but I have been known to do treatments anywhere! I have become very adaptable and creative to suit my surroundings!” Gemma told us.
“I have all my kit in my car at all times, so I’m never caught out. I do ask for pics of nail inspo the night before so I know exactly what they are having. I can then cherry-pick all my colors and just take those in, and if not, I carry it all in.”
She also told us her number one product recommendation would be an extra-long extension lead! “Some people don’t have 10 plugs in one room” she said.
Safety & Hygiene
When becoming mobile, you’ll need to consider the need for proper sterilisation and establishing a clean and comfortable environment, wherever you are.
“I carry multiple sanitising sprays, wipes, and antibacterial gels. I wipe down surfaces and explain to my clients the importance of hygiene, and they are always happy to hear it. I’m always hyper-aware of where my wires are and who is around me and my work kit. I think you have to be straightforward and explain why you are doing these things and the safety importance behind them,” says Gemma.
Communicating With Clients
Communicating with clients is KEY when becoming a mobile nail tech.
You need to make sure you have the space to do your job properly.
“I have to make myself comfortable quite quickly in someone else’s home and in a polite way tell the client what I need or where I need them to be!” Gemma says.
We asked Gemma if she had any words of wisdom for techs looking to go mobile, and she said, “Yes, my main rule is only go to people’s houses who you have a connection to. I have only ever gained clients by word of mouth since I left my old salon.”
She also stressed the importance of being super organised, “confirm the appointment with your client the night before, there’s nothing worse than turning up and they’ve forgotten.”
Are you a mobile nail tech? Considering switching from your salon? Let us know down below!
