Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1509423
16 ASCP Skin Deep Student Edition 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Have a Plan. Always have a plan in place and know exactly what you want to do. Do you want to continue to work for someone else? (It's OK if you do!) Do you want to eventually go solo? Build a Personal Brand. If you're already on your own, this step is incredibly important, but even while working for a company, building your personal brand will help you gain credibility. Components of a personal brand include a business card, simple website, and branding social media pages. Build Your Email List. It's always a good idea to build your own following, and not just via social media. One way to build your email list is to start a monthly newsletter that educates your clients (and potential clients) on new services and products, home-care advice, etc. You can also use these emails to direct clients and potential clients back to your website or social media page. Build Your Online Presence. Building an online presence is important—to not only show your work but also grow your business. Remember, just because you work for someone else doesn't mean you aren't a business yourself. But don't get too overwhelmed with building a presence on all social media platforms; it's OK to choose 2–3 platforms at first. Define Your Niche. Be known for what you do and be good at it! You don't have to be great at everything. Once you find the 1–2 services you love to do and for which you see great results, start defining yourself as an expert in that area. Gather Reviews. Always direct your current clients to leave you reviews on Google, Yelp, Facebook, etc. When you're first starting out, you might source reviews from family and friends you've practiced on. You might also consider asking satisfied clients to post pictures of their results so future clients can see your best work. Ask for Referrals. Be direct in asking for referrals from your current clients. Word-of-mouth advertising is free, and you never know how many eager friends your best clients have! Build a Personal Website/Portfolio. Your website does not have to be elaborate. With the website builder through ASCP, you can start with one page that outlines who you are, how to contact you, and how to follow you on social media. Be sure to add your booking link. Network. Go to events, trade shows, and classes to network among your peers. You never know when your next opportunity may be right in front of you! Focus on Client Retention. A great way to build your book is to keep clients coming back. Let them know when you want to see them back and book them for that date before they walk out the door. You can also send follow-up emails and texts to remind them about booking future appointments. Crystal Ochemba-Powell is a licensed esthetician, makeup artist, educator, and beauty business coach with 10 years of experience. anna shvets/pexels