Attracting new clients for nail technicians, like any business, is essential. A pipeline of new customers is essential for every business and that’s no different for a nail technician. For a nail tech attracting new customers will involve showcasing your skills, building trust, and marketing yourself effectively. Whether you’re a mobile nail tech or you run your nail bar, it’s important to have a solid strategy for growing your client base. Below are some of our thoughts as to how to bring in new clients, with a special focus on boosting your qualifications, leveraging word-of-mouth, and mastering social media marketing.
Nail Tech Qualifications – Why They Matter
The first step to landing clients is making sure you have the right nail tech qualifications. In an industry where skill and precision are everything, having the proper certifications can set you apart from the competition. Not only will this build trust with potential clients, but it also helps you command higher rates. At Glitterbels, we offer a range of courses that allow you to specialise in areas like acrylic nails, gel polish, and nail art. By getting qualified through a recognised provider, you can assure clients that they’re in safe hands.
The Power of Word-of-Mouth
One of the best ways to build your client base is through word-of-mouth recommendations. Happy clients are likely to tell their friends and family about your services, which can be a major source of new bookings. For mobile nail techs, word-of-mouth can spread quickly in local communities. Encourage your clients to leave reviews online and ask them to tag you in social media posts. Offering a small discount for referrals can also help get people talking about your services.
If you have a nail bar, consider setting up a loyalty programme where regular clients can earn rewards for bringing in new customers. Building a strong local reputation is crucial for nail bars, especially if you’re competing with nearby salons.
Leveraging Social Media to Attract Clients
Social media is an essential tool for any nail technician looking to grow their client base. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok allow you to showcase your skills, build a following, and interact with potential clients, whether you’re a mobile nail tech or running a nail bar.
To stand out, focus on high-quality images and videos that highlight your work. Consistency is key — regular posts showcasing before-and-after transformations, nail art close-ups, or client testimonials can help build credibility. A top tip here is engagement. Social media’s platform’s algorithms favour content with high engagement. You can engage with your audience by responding to comments, sharing nail care tips, and posting updates about your availability or special offers. This interaction helps create a connection with potential clients, whether you’re promoting yourself as a solo mobile tech or building a business brand for your nail bar.
Both mobile nail techs and salon owners can benefit from personal branding and showcasing the unique elements of their service. Mobile techs might focus more on the convenience and personal nature of their at-home services, while salons can highlight the experience, environment, and team behind their brand.
Should You Consider Advertising?
While word-of-mouth and social media are free marketing tools, advertising can also help you get clients, especially if you’re just starting out. Facebook and Instagram ads allow you to target specific groups of people in your area, making it easier to reach potential clients.
Mobile nail techs can benefit from running ads in specific neighbourhoods, while nail bars can run ads that target locals looking for a new salon. Make sure your ads showcase your best work and highlight any promotions or special offers you have running.
Tailoring Your Approach: Mobile vs. Nail Bar
When it comes to getting clients, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The strategies you use will vary significantly depending on whether you’re a mobile nail technician or running a nail bar. Each has its own unique challenges and opportunities, so it’s essential to tailor your marketing and client-building tactics accordingly.
For mobile nail techs, your focus should be on building a personal brand. Since you’re providing a more personalised, one-on-one service, clients will be drawn to your personality and the convenience of at-home treatments. Make sure your brand reflects your professionalism, creativity, and flexibility. You’ll need to lean heavily on social media and word-of-mouth to build trust in your local community. Offering referral discounts, loyalty incentives (to encourage people to keep coming back), and showcasing your mobile setup can also give you an edge.
On the other hand, if you own a nail bar, the focus shifts towards building a business brand. Clients coming to a salon expect a certain atmosphere and level of service, so branding is crucial. This could include everything from your salon’s aesthetic to the professionalism of your staff and the services you offer. Running special promotions, showcasing your nail bar’s unique qualities on social media, and collaborating with local businesses can help differentiate your brand in a competitive market. You may have noticed how many nail bars there are in your local city or town now — it's a competitive space. Nail bars often have to compete with other salons, so standing out with your branding and customer experience is key.
While mobile techs rely more on personal connections and flexibility, nail bars need to invest in creating an inviting space that reflects the brand they want to promote. The common thread between both is the importance of nail tech qualifications, which can be taken online or face-to-face with our award winning team, as these give potential clients confidence in the services you provide, regardless of whether you’re mobile or based in a salon.