Boosting Business: How to Make Clients Feel Safe and Valued

In the world full of nail salons, building a loyal clientele goes beyond just providing a great manicure or pedicure. It’s about creating an environment where clients feel safe, valued, and genuinely cared for. Here are some essential strategies to help you boost your business by making your clients feel right at home.

1. Prioritize Sanitation

Nothing says "I care" like a spotless salon. Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness not only protects your clients but also builds their trust in your services. At Brave Nails, I follow rigorous sanitation protocols, from using tools sterilized in an autoclave to disinfecting all surfaces between clients. When clients see your commitment to cleanliness, they’ll feel secure knowing they’re in safe hands. It can become a habit to let the little stuff slide, and clients notice those things!

2. Communicate Openly

Transparency is key. Take the time to explain your processes and why they matter. For instance, when discussing Onyfix treatments, I ensure clients understand each step, the benefits, and how it helps their nails— and I make sure they understand what realistic expectations are. Open communication not only informs but also empowers clients, making them feel more connected to their experience. You don’t need to go on and on, most clients don’t necessarily want to know a lot of detail, but taking the time to clue them in to key products and practices that set you apart can make a huge difference for your business.

3. Personalize the Experience

Everyone loves feeling special! Take the time to learn about your clients' preferences and concerns. Whether it’s their favorite colors or any specific nail health issues, personalizing your services shows that you value them as individuals. A simple, "How did your nails hold up last time?" can make a huge difference in their overall experience.

4. Foster a Welcoming Atmosphere

Your salon should feel like a second home. From the decor to the ambiance, everything should invite clients to relax and unwind. Consider adding comfortable seating, soothing music, and even complimentary refreshments. When clients walk into a warm and welcoming environment, they’ll associate that comfort with your brand.

5. Show Appreciation

A little gratitude goes a long way. Whether it’s through thank-you notes, the occasional loyalty discount, or surprise perks for returning clients, showing appreciation can turn one-time visitors into regulars. At Brave Nails, I offer new clients a free spa upgrade, reinforcing that I value their patronage— and as an added bonus, now they’ve had a taste of a higher ticket service I sell and may want it again. It’s win-win. Small holiday gifts are fun too, like in October I gave a free pumpkin cuticle oil and some Hershey kisses to all my spa pedicure clients.

6. Gather Feedback

Encouraging clients to share their thoughts not only shows that you care but also helps you improve. Create an easy feedback system, whether it’s a suggestion box or a simple follow-up message. Listening to your clients’ needs and implementing their suggestions can greatly enhance their trust in your brand.

By focusing on these strategies, you can create a safe and inviting environment that makes clients feel valued. Remember, when clients feel good about their experience at your salon, they’ll not only return but also spread the word, ultimately boosting your business.

Stop Calling Your Rebalances “Fills”

Nail Techs: We have got to stop calling rebalances “fills.”

I get it, it sounds like quibbling over semantics. It’s the path of least resistance to use the word the client expects and understands. We are all too busy to care about small word choices. I hear you.

But this isn’t as small as you think.

It DOES matter what we call things. Clients think all we do when they come back for a return service is remove top coat, fill in the gap with a little more product, and go. If your nails are lasting 3-4+ weeks and you’re removing a majority of the product and rebuilding so that nail lasts another month without the structure going lopsided, that is no longer a fill. That is a different, more involved, more skilled service.

By not calling the service what it is and educating about what’s involved and why, we are rendering a huge portion of our work INVISIBLE.

CLIENTS CANNOT VALUE WORK THEY DONT KNOW WE’RE DOING.

They will, rightfully, continue to expect fill prices when they think they’re getting a fill. They will resist “fills” costing more than what they’ve been paying for 2 week infills for 20 years. Rightfully, because we are choosing not to inform them they’re actually getting a different, better service that promotes better nail health and saves them time in the chair.

We HAVE to explain that a fill at two weeks and a rebalance at 4+ are not the same thing. Just because they’re not seeing acetone and foils doesn’t mean we aren’t redoing 90% of the set. Most of us are using efiles now and don’t have to soak off to do a new set.

If your work lasts 4 weeks and you’re not meeting this resistance because you’re still charging fill prices on rebalance services, you are cutting your salary in half. You are providing twice as much value and the gift of their time back and giving it away for free.

Sets last longer than they used to. This is a good thing that saves clients hours a month in the salon chair and can save them money. They won’t understand the value of that 4 week set if you let the work remain invisible.

Times change and if we don’t bring our clients expectations and understanding with us, we are going to struggle and they’re going to be frustrated and confused.

All it takes is saying: “Since these nails last so many weeks, instead of just filling in the gap I have to rebalance the whole nail so it’s structured correctly again and will last you another 4 weeks.” It’s okay if they don’t understand every word you say. They just need to understand you’re doing more work than they think you are.

We have to teach them the value of what we’re doing if we want them to pay us fairly for it.

Essential Tools Every Nail Technician Should Invest In

No matter how skilled you are, the quality of your tools can make or break the final result. Having the right equipment not only improves your work but also sets you apart as a professional. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned tech looking to upgrade, there are a few essential tools you *need* to have in your arsenal to ensure top-notch results for every client.

NOTE: I strongly do not believe in “beginner quality” tools or products! Once you’ve decided to do nails, it’s worth it to invest in good products rather than trying to learn with materials that will work against you and make it harder to progress. That’s just going to make you frustrated and burn you out. Stick to your budget as always, but don’t think you don’t deserve the good stuff yet just because you’re still a beginner.

Back to the list…

1. Professional-Grade LED/UV Curing Lamp

Let’s talk curing lamps. If you’re serious about delivering flawless gel manicures, investing in a high-quality LED/UV lamp is a must. A professional-grade lamp ensures quick, even curing every single time—no more worrying about undercured nails or clients coming back with peeling gel. The right lamp will also last you longer and work faster, saving you time with each appointment.

According to cosmetic chemist legend Doug Schoon (SOURCE: https://youtu.be/9OZi6ZL-itg?si=TmYNpTJO2IwEl7Vw), gel hardens and appears cured when it is as little as 50% cured. If you aren’t investing in a trustworthy lamp, you have no trustworthy way to know if you’re risking giving your clients an acrylate allergy.

Further, gels are (or should be) specifically formulated to work with specific lamps. Not all lamps have the same strength or wavelength, nor do all gels cure at the same wavelength. It is best to use the lamp made or suggested by the same company who makes your gels. In fact, in some regions, not doing so may void your liability insurance and leave you open to getting sued. It’s best to choose the lamp that matches all or most of your gels, and for any that don’t match it’s important to verify the required nanometers to cure that gel to ensure the lamp you have is powerful enough.

2. Professional Quality Gels and/or Acrylics

Your gels and acrylics are the heart of your work, so don’t cut corners here. Investing in professional-grade products ensures better adhesion, longer-lasting results, and fewer complaints from clients. It will make you stand out from your competitors, and you can charge more! High-quality gels and acrylics are also easier to work with—they have smoother application, cure perfectly, and maintain their integrity for weeks. It’s tempting to go for cheaper options, but trust me, your clients will notice the difference. Plus, using professional-grade products makes your work more reliable, which translates into happy, loyal clients.

3. A Powerful Electronic File (E-File)

If there’s one tool that will seriously transform how you work, it’s a powerful e-file. Whether you’re doing acrylics, gels, or detailed cuticle work, a good e-file will save you time and energy. Look for one with adjustable speed settings and a comfortable grip, so you can work efficiently and precisely. An e-file isn’t just about speed; it’s about creating clean, professional results that make your work stand out. it also seriously reduces the amount of wear and tear you put on your body, which will allow you to work longer and make more money. There’s no downside!

I recommend and use Medicool, available at Erica’s ATA.

https://ericasata.com/collections/electric-files/products/medicool-pro-power-35k-portable-electric-file?aff=128

Bonus Tool: Bits from Erica's ATA

If you really want to be good at this, quality bits are a game changer.

I personally recommend the diamond bits from Erica’s ATA—they’re designed for precision and durability, making every manicure smoother and more detailed.

They’re made with 100% pure, ethically-sourced diamond, not cut with other cheaper abrasives like inferior brands. That means they’ll work the best and last the longest, which will save you money.

Erica’s ATA is also committed to environmental sustainability, fair wages, and education!

If you’re looking to upgrade your toolkit, you can use my discount code **BRAVE10** for a special deal. Trust me, your clients will thank you!

Know When to Splurge

Here’s the thing: some tools are worth the extra investment. The items I’ve outlined above are the workhorses that are going to build your entire career. They will ensure you’re offering professional quality service, and they’ll also make your salon safer for clients. Quality costs money, and you can’t compromise on the quality of those items.

On the other hand, basic items like files or buffers can be more budget-friendly without impacting the quality of your work. The key is understanding where quality matters most—those tools that directly impact the longevity and finish of your nails are the ones worth the investment.

Some items I buy on the cheap: manicure brushes, disposable files, disposable buffers, Orangewood sticks, angled Q-tips, lint free wipes, microfiber cloths, etc. You can find what I use here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/bravenailsbyjill

Maintenance Matters

And don’t forget—your tools are only as good as the care you give them. Clean and disinfect them thoroughly after each use, per the regulations provided by your state board or local governing body. Store them in a clean, dry place. A well-maintained set of tools will last longer and perform better, which means better results for your clients and a longer lifespan for your investments.

Final Thoughts

When it comes down to it, the right tools can elevate your entire business. Investing in high-quality, professional-grade tools—whether it’s your curing lamp, gels, e-file, or bits—sets you up for success. Your clients will see and feel the difference, and your workflow will be smoother and more efficient. Don’t hesitate to make these upgrades—it’s an investment in your craft and in the future of your salon.

Maximizing Profits: How to Price Your Nail Services Effectively

Let’s be real—pricing your nail services can feel like a tricky balancing act. On one hand, you want to attract clients and stay competitive, but on the other hand, you can’t afford to undercharge for the time, skill, and effort you’re putting into your work. So how do you strike that perfect balance? Here’s how to set prices that reflect your worth, cover your costs, and keep clients coming back for more.

Do Your Homework

First things first, take a look around. What are other nail salons in your area charging for similar services? This doesn’t mean you should immediately undercut them (big mistake!), or that you can’t charge more than your neighbors, but it’s important to know the general pricing landscape of your area. Nails don’t cost the same in NYC as they do in Alabama. Use this as a benchmark, and remember: just because another salon is charging less doesn’t mean their services are as high-quality as yours.

While you're doing this research, also take note of the unique services or products you can offer that no one else in your area does!

Know Your Costs Inside and Out

Before you even think about setting a price, you need to know exactly how much it’s costing you to run your business. This includes everything—your products, tools, rent, utilities, continuing education, commuting cost, and of course, your time. If you’re using premium gels or other materials, that needs to factor into your price.

Equally important is knowing how much you need to earn to cover your personal living expenses. Whether it's your rent or mortgage, groceries, insurance, or any other essentials, you should have a clear understanding of your financial needs. That way, you can set your prices confidently, knowing they support both your business and your life outside of work. The amount of money you need to make to live may not be the same amount of money the salon down the street needs to make. That is why your price has to be YOUR price.

Deciding on your prices can’t be an emotional decision—it has to be rooted in the reality of your expenses and what you need to make to live your life comfortably and keep your business running.

Offer Service Bundles to Increase Value

Another smart strategy is bundling services together. Clients love feeling like they’re getting more for their money, and offering service packages can help you increase your average sale per client. For example, instead of offering a basic manicure and pedicure as separate services, create a “combo” package that includes both, plus a little extra—maybe a hand massage or a nail art add-on. You can price it in a way that gives clients a slight discount compared to booking the services separately, but you’re still earning more overall.

Not only does this help increase profits, but it also encourages clients to try services they might not have otherwise booked. Plus, it simplifies the decision-making process for them, which makes it easier to upsell.

Don’t Be Afraid to Adjust Over Time

As your skills improve and your client base grows, don’t hesitate to adjust your prices. It’s natural to raise your rates as you gain more experience and invest in higher-quality products— and don’t forget inflation makes your life cost more too, and must be accounted for. If you’re delivering consistent, high-quality results, your clients will understand the value behind your services. You could lose a few, but there is always another client who will see your worth. You can’t find them if you’re undercharging and filling your book with the wrong clients.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, your pricing should reflect your worth, your expertise, and the value you’re offering. Don’t let fear of losing clients stop you from charging what you’re worth. When you set prices that align with the quality of your work, you’ll attract clients who appreciate that and keep your business thriving.