5 answers
Bella
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
5
Questions
Asked
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Would I make more money opening up my own salon or working at one?
Hello my name is Bella. I'm in 10th grade and I'm trying to figure out what I would want to do when I graduate. I'm currently interested in cosmetology. I'm not sure what it's all about though.
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5 answers
Theophilus Mensah
Entrepreneur
37
Answers
Grambling, Louisiana
Updated
Theophilus’s Answer
Hi Bella!
I can definitely understand why you’re weighing the pros and cons of opening your own salon versus working at an established one. I’ve had similar thoughts myself. From my experience in business, I’ve seen both paths have their unique challenges and rewards.
Working at a Salon:
When you work at someone else’s salon, you benefit from a steady income, especially in the early stages of your career. You can focus on perfecting your craft without worrying about the operational side of things—like managing employees, handling rent, or marketing. This structure gives you room to grow your client base and hone your skills. However, there’s often a ceiling on how much you can earn because your wages and commissions are typically set by the salon.
Owning a Salon:
Now, starting your own salon is a whole different ballgame. From what I’ve learned through managing my own business( I have managed my online skincare and haircare shop for five years now). The initial setup can be intense;finding the right location, hiring a team, and building your brand from scratch all require time and financial investment. But once you get things going, the sky’s the limit. You’re in control of how much you charge, the kind of clients you cater to, and even the overall vibe of the salon. The freedom and earning potential are much higher, but so are the risks and the workload.
In my experience, the decision comes down to whether you’re ready to take on the challenges of ownership, or if you’d prefer to start with a more stable role to build up experience first. If you’ve got a strong passion for both the creative and business side of things, owning a salon could be very fulfilling. But if you’d rather avoid the added pressure of managing a business and just focus on your craft, working at a salon is a fantastic route.
Ultimately, think about your long-term goals and what makes you excited about this career. Either path can lead to success, depending on what aligns best with your vision for the future. And remember, you don’t have to rush! Many successful salon owners started out working for someone else before taking the plunge into ownership.
I can definitely understand why you’re weighing the pros and cons of opening your own salon versus working at an established one. I’ve had similar thoughts myself. From my experience in business, I’ve seen both paths have their unique challenges and rewards.
Working at a Salon:
When you work at someone else’s salon, you benefit from a steady income, especially in the early stages of your career. You can focus on perfecting your craft without worrying about the operational side of things—like managing employees, handling rent, or marketing. This structure gives you room to grow your client base and hone your skills. However, there’s often a ceiling on how much you can earn because your wages and commissions are typically set by the salon.
Owning a Salon:
Now, starting your own salon is a whole different ballgame. From what I’ve learned through managing my own business( I have managed my online skincare and haircare shop for five years now). The initial setup can be intense;finding the right location, hiring a team, and building your brand from scratch all require time and financial investment. But once you get things going, the sky’s the limit. You’re in control of how much you charge, the kind of clients you cater to, and even the overall vibe of the salon. The freedom and earning potential are much higher, but so are the risks and the workload.
In my experience, the decision comes down to whether you’re ready to take on the challenges of ownership, or if you’d prefer to start with a more stable role to build up experience first. If you’ve got a strong passion for both the creative and business side of things, owning a salon could be very fulfilling. But if you’d rather avoid the added pressure of managing a business and just focus on your craft, working at a salon is a fantastic route.
Ultimately, think about your long-term goals and what makes you excited about this career. Either path can lead to success, depending on what aligns best with your vision for the future. And remember, you don’t have to rush! Many successful salon owners started out working for someone else before taking the plunge into ownership.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Bella
Adaobi Ogheneovo B.SC Acct, MPA , IBM
CLIENT MANAGER
65
Answers
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Updated
Adaobi’s Answer
The potential income for both options can vary widely based on factors like location, experience, and the success of the salon. Here's a general comparison:
Salon Owner:
- **Average Income**: Around $90,000 per year.
-Factors: Type of salon, location, management skills, and business acumen.
Salon Employee (e.g., Hair Stylist):
- Average Income: Around $38,000 per year
- Range: $29,250 to $46,800+ per year
- Factors: Experience, skills, and location.
While owning a salon can potentially lead to higher earnings, it also comes with more responsibilities and risks. Working as an employee might offer more stability and less stress.
Salon Owner:
- **Average Income**: Around $90,000 per year.
-Factors: Type of salon, location, management skills, and business acumen.
Salon Employee (e.g., Hair Stylist):
- Average Income: Around $38,000 per year
- Range: $29,250 to $46,800+ per year
- Factors: Experience, skills, and location.
While owning a salon can potentially lead to higher earnings, it also comes with more responsibilities and risks. Working as an employee might offer more stability and less stress.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Bella
Lynn Hutchison
Director Strategic Integrated Planning
24
Answers
Dacula, Georgia
Updated
Lynn’s Answer
Hello Bella,
Cosmetology is indeed an exciting and rewarding field. However, the licensing requirements can differ from state to state, so it's crucial to investigate this aspect thoroughly. Although owning your own salon is a fantastic goal, gaining experience by working in a salon initially can provide invaluable insights for your future success. Here's a suggested roadmap for you:
1. Decide on your entry route into the cosmetology field. This could be through formal cosmetology school or by apprenticing under a licensed cosmetologist, depending on what your state allows.
2. Find a salon that offers a position where the owner is open to mentoring you. This will give you the chance to hone your cosmetology skills and learn about the business aspects of running a salon.
3. After you've mastered your craft, understood the business side, and built a solid client base, you can then contemplate launching your own salon.
Best of luck on your journey!
Lynn
Cosmetology is indeed an exciting and rewarding field. However, the licensing requirements can differ from state to state, so it's crucial to investigate this aspect thoroughly. Although owning your own salon is a fantastic goal, gaining experience by working in a salon initially can provide invaluable insights for your future success. Here's a suggested roadmap for you:
1. Decide on your entry route into the cosmetology field. This could be through formal cosmetology school or by apprenticing under a licensed cosmetologist, depending on what your state allows.
2. Find a salon that offers a position where the owner is open to mentoring you. This will give you the chance to hone your cosmetology skills and learn about the business aspects of running a salon.
3. After you've mastered your craft, understood the business side, and built a solid client base, you can then contemplate launching your own salon.
Best of luck on your journey!
Lynn
I appreciate your support, Lynn
Bella
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
549
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Bella,
That's a great question to be thinking about. Choosing between opening your own salon or working for someone else is a big decision, and it depends on a few factors.
Here are some things to consider:
Financial Investment: Opening your own salon requires a significant financial investment for rent, equipment, supplies, and marketing. Working at a salon might be a better option if you're starting out and want to build your skills and experience without the financial burden.
Risk and Reward: Being a salon owner comes with both risks and rewards. You'll have more control over your income and work hours, but you'll also be responsible for managing all aspects of the business. Working for someone else offers more stability and less risk, but you might have less control over your income and work hours.
Skills and Experience: If you're new to cosmetology, working at a salon can be a great way to learn from experienced professionals and build your skills. Once you have more experience, you might be better prepared to open your own salon.
To learn more about cosmetology, you might want to:
Shadow a cosmetologist: This will give you a first-hand look at what the job entails.
Take cosmetology classes: Many high schools and community colleges offer cosmetology programs.
Research cosmetology schools: If you're interested in pursuing a formal education, you can research cosmetology schools in your area.
Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your individual goals, interests, and financial situation. It's important to do your research and weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.
Best wishes!
That's a great question to be thinking about. Choosing between opening your own salon or working for someone else is a big decision, and it depends on a few factors.
Here are some things to consider:
Financial Investment: Opening your own salon requires a significant financial investment for rent, equipment, supplies, and marketing. Working at a salon might be a better option if you're starting out and want to build your skills and experience without the financial burden.
Risk and Reward: Being a salon owner comes with both risks and rewards. You'll have more control over your income and work hours, but you'll also be responsible for managing all aspects of the business. Working for someone else offers more stability and less risk, but you might have less control over your income and work hours.
Skills and Experience: If you're new to cosmetology, working at a salon can be a great way to learn from experienced professionals and build your skills. Once you have more experience, you might be better prepared to open your own salon.
To learn more about cosmetology, you might want to:
Shadow a cosmetologist: This will give you a first-hand look at what the job entails.
Take cosmetology classes: Many high schools and community colleges offer cosmetology programs.
Research cosmetology schools: If you're interested in pursuing a formal education, you can research cosmetology schools in your area.
Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your individual goals, interests, and financial situation. It's important to do your research and weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.
Best wishes!
Monica Chibuogwu
Educational Consulting/Counseling
69
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hi Bella, trust you are fine☺️
It's fantastic that you're exploring your passions and thinking ahead and I'm happy to help.
Cosmetology is an exciting field, offering creativity, flexibility, and opportunities for growth. Let's dive into your question.
Opening your own salon vs. working at one❓
Both options have pros and cons, which affect earning potential.
☑️Opening your own salon:
Pros:
1. Autonomy and creative control
2. Potential for higher earnings (profit-sharing)
3. Flexibility in scheduling
Cons:
1. Initial investment and startup costs (equipment, rent, marketing)
2. Management responsibilities (staffing, finances)
3. Liability and risk
✅Working at a salon:
Pros:
1. Less financial risk
2. Established client base
3. Opportunities for mentorship and training
Cons:
1. Commission-based income (varies)
2. Limited creative control
3. Scheduling constraints
Consider starting as an assistant or stylist in an established salon to gain experience, build your network, and refine your skills before potentially opening your own salon.
💎Tips for success in cosmetology:💎
1. Research and attend a reputable cosmetology school
2. Gain practical experience through internships or volunteering
3. Build a strong network of professionals and clients
4. Stay updated on industry trends and best practices
5. Develop strong communication and customer service skills
🔑Exploring cosmetology further:🔑
1. Research local cosmetology schools and programs
2. Shadow professionals in the field
3. Attend workshops or seminars
4. Consider taking vocational courses or certification programs
You're taking the first steps toward an exciting career, Bella✌️
Keep exploring, stay curious, and remember - education and training are investments in yourself!
Best of luck🌠
It's fantastic that you're exploring your passions and thinking ahead and I'm happy to help.
Cosmetology is an exciting field, offering creativity, flexibility, and opportunities for growth. Let's dive into your question.
Opening your own salon vs. working at one❓
Both options have pros and cons, which affect earning potential.
☑️Opening your own salon:
Pros:
1. Autonomy and creative control
2. Potential for higher earnings (profit-sharing)
3. Flexibility in scheduling
Cons:
1. Initial investment and startup costs (equipment, rent, marketing)
2. Management responsibilities (staffing, finances)
3. Liability and risk
✅Working at a salon:
Pros:
1. Less financial risk
2. Established client base
3. Opportunities for mentorship and training
Cons:
1. Commission-based income (varies)
2. Limited creative control
3. Scheduling constraints
Consider starting as an assistant or stylist in an established salon to gain experience, build your network, and refine your skills before potentially opening your own salon.
💎Tips for success in cosmetology:💎
1. Research and attend a reputable cosmetology school
2. Gain practical experience through internships or volunteering
3. Build a strong network of professionals and clients
4. Stay updated on industry trends and best practices
5. Develop strong communication and customer service skills
🔑Exploring cosmetology further:🔑
1. Research local cosmetology schools and programs
2. Shadow professionals in the field
3. Attend workshops or seminars
4. Consider taking vocational courses or certification programs
You're taking the first steps toward an exciting career, Bella✌️
Keep exploring, stay curious, and remember - education and training are investments in yourself!
Best of luck🌠
This was super helpful, thank you!
Bella
I'm happy it was helpful. Keep soaring🙌
Monica Chibuogwu