How to Open a Hairdressing Business

Opening a hairdressing business is an ideal fit for those who have a knack for hairstyling and enjoy people. And when you consider that most of the population chooses to have someone else cut their hair, it can be a profitable business as well.

Instructions

1. Earn the necessary certifications.

   In most states, hairdressers are required to get a license by completing a certain number of hours of schooling and sitting for state board exams. Researching your particular state and making sure you have the proper certifications is a necessary first step in opening a hairdressing business.

2. Decide on a business location.

   Hairdresser work in salons, from their homes, at the clients' homes, or some combination of the above. Consider where your ideal place of work would be.

   For those starting out, it is not uncommon for them to rent a station in a salon owned by another. And opening a home-based shop can be a great situation for some, although it will require more effort than using someone else's location.

3. Being marketing.

   Word of mouth marketing is very common for hairdressing businesses. Find a few solid clients to start, do a good job with them, and then ask them to spread the word. You may even want to consider offering a special for new clients or a referral reward (discounts on future services) for those who send you new clients.

   Once established, many hairdressers find they don't need to do a lot of additional marketing.

Tips & Warnings

• For the truly business minded, look toward opening your own salon and renting space to other hairdressers.