Educator, author and Cosmetologists Chicago board
member, Kathy Jager got real with aspiring solo artists on
what it takes to be fulfilled and financially successful as an
independent business owner. Her class on Monday, April
24th at the John Amico Beauty Product Showroom and
Educational Resource Center in Oak Forest, Illinois covered
the range of advantages and opportunities available to solo
artists, but also took a realistic look at some of the
disadvantages and struggles some independent stylists feel.
As a solo artist herself for many years, Jager is a proponent of
this business option for stylists that are considering a change
from working in a salon. She describes the advantages that
can be enjoyed, such as having creative freedom when it
comes to retail, marketing, price structure and services
offered. Plus, going independent gives stylists the opportunity
to diversify their careers and get involved in the business end
of beauty. On the flipside, being a solo artist means wearing
many hats–you’ll be the service provider, bookkeeper,
receptionist, marketer, shampooer, sweeper and more, Jager
says. For many beauty professionals, taking charge of every
aspect of their business is just what they want. Others that try
the solo artist path end up returning to the salon, because it
was harder than they expected or they were not able to make
their business a success. The key is being prepared and rising
to the challenges.
Jager’s class was an ideal opportunity for cosmetology
students and aspiring solo artists to consider whether an
independent career is right for them, and if so, how to prepare
for that path. Jager recommends that stylists begin their career
in a salon so that they have an opportunity to solidify their
technical skills and build a clientele. She also emphasized the
necessity of mastering soft skills and professionalism before
starting an independent business. Just because solo artists get
to act as their own boss does not mean that they can allow themselves to get sloppy in presentation or interaction with
their clients. To avoid a feeling of disconnect as an independent stylist, Jager recommends joining an organization like
Cosmetologists Chicago for the opportunity to draw on support from other beauty pros and to attend continuing
eduction classes to keep up on new trends and techniques.
In short, building an independent, ‘mini salon business’ is right for some, but not for others. Jager’s class was a great place
for stylists to examine whether it is the right next step for them. For those ready to make the leap, Jager’s class offered a
wealth of information on how to dive into the world of beauty business, marketing and branding.
For more information on the education she offers, visit kathyjager.com
Kathy Jager is a salon owner,expert hair stylist, educator and sought after national speaker.
She is also a writer and the author of the best-selling salon book, ‘As the Chair Turns’.
She is an Alumni of the John Amico School.