- Build your name and reputation
- Volunteer your time
- Network, network, network!
- Practice make perfect
Building your name and reputation
In order to get clients, you will need to start making a name for yourself. This includes having your own website and working on marketing yourself, whether in-person or on social media. This is also how potential clients can contact you and view your work before they decide to book you. Carrying out the first stages for any up-and-coming makeup artist is no easy task. There is a lot of time and energy spent on creating a strong customer base, and social media is a relatively low-cost and easy way to increase your social presence. Showcase your talent and the bookings will come faster than expected!
Besides having a website where clients can reach you, you may also want to start a blog. People value information, and this can be a way to teach others and demonstrate your expertise in makeup. By adding content to your website and updating it consistently, the higher Google will rank your site, making it easier for you to be the top choice when potential clients are searching for services. Your website also becomes your online portfolio.
Volunteer your time
Right after graduation, doing volunteer work has its advantages. You can network and practice your skills at the same time! You can contact local theater groups and event planning organizations and offer your service. Even though you will most likely not be paid, you can use it to build your portfolio and build your client base. If you are working at an even, you may even receive credit for your work, attracting even more people to your brand.
Network, network, network!
No matter how successful you are, it’s always a good idea to rub elbows with industry professionals! You can start by finding a mentor, someone you know that already has experience in the beauty industry. This can be your makeup school instructor or someone you recently met through social media or a beauty event. Do not hesitate to reach out to them; they will probably be flattered that you approached them! Offer to assist them, even if you will not be paid for your time. Your mentor will be able to guide you and give you valuable advice and experience that will be worth it. Your mentor may be able to introduce you to new people, which could potentially lead to more work in the future. If possible, you should attend industry events and beauty shows for great networking opportunities. Remember to hand out your business card!
You should also make sure to make connections with your fellow classmates. You will be able to build your professional circle, or just have friends to bounce creative ideas off of. It can be helpful to know people that are going through the same transitions as you.
If you are not sure of what field you want to work in, check out our blog to help you choose!
Practice makes perfect
Just like networking, there is no limit to how much time you spend practicing and polishing your skills. There are only so many hours spent in the classroom, which is why it is important to work on your craft outside of school. The only way to master the skills you’ve learned is by using them over and over again. Take every opportunity to sharpen your skills and make it a part of your everyday routine. Graduating is only the first step in your career and practicing will only take you further. A way to practice is by working at a makeup counter at a department store. Because of the heavy foot traffic, you’ll get the chance to work on all kinds of skin types, ages, and shades. It will also help with fine-tuning customer service skills. Customer service is a important aspect of any service, and you’ll be able to provide the best experience for your client.
At Nina Mua, we want to see our students thrive and become successful both inside the classroom and out. Just because you’ve graduated does not mean that our support stops. We want to help you in your career. We offer a closed Facebook group where we notify our students and graduates of career opportunities. We also offer graduates discounts for various makeup brands and website to help build your kit. We also look forward to starting this journey with you!
