SCRATCH COLUMNIST

STAR Quality

Why skill alone isn’t enough to be a top nail tech

North America’s Star Nail Artist Season 1 champion, ANASTASIA TOTTY, shares tips & tales from her colourful career

I started my nail career in the United States 15 years ago, and my very first nail client is loyal to this day. You may ask why, and the answer is very simple: I care!

It’s important to understand what it takes to be successful in the nail sector. Consistent effort and dedication to both the craft and your business are required.

I respect the trust that people put in my skills, and I value their time. I care about the quality of the service I provide and believe that communication is key. If I am running behind on an appointment or have to reschedule for any reason, I make sure that the client is informed and taken care of – or rebooked – as soon as possible. While investments in products, training and equipment are important, the professional relationships you build with your clients and the care you provide will keep them coming back. my na

I spend a lot of time in my nail studio, so it’s important that the environment is clean and comfortable. This benefits both me and my customers. I follow all safety and hygiene protocols, use high-quality nailcare products and make sure that I stay up-to-date with nail trends. My cosy studio allows clients to enjoy their favourite TV shows while chatting and sipping a cup of coffee. I see nail appointments as reasonably-priced therapy sessions, where clients leave with beautiful nails. We all know how important it is to take care of ourselves in order to escape burnout, so I enjoy pedicure appointments and doing my own nails, too.

‘‘Every competition and I love that inform It is k event I immerse myself in provides new opportunities to grow, learn from and network with other artists, get inspired and bring new knowledge back to my nail desk.

Customers need to feel safe and comfortable in your nail space, and trust that you will utilise your knowledge to provide the best nailcare services possible. My clients feel fortunate to belong to an exclusive group of people who can book appointments with me. I haven’t been able to accept any new clients in a few years, due to the projects I take on and steps I make to further my career. However, every competition and event I immerse myself in provides new opportunities to grow, learn from and network with other artists, get inspired and bring new knowledge back to my nail desk.

I love that social media provides such a wealth of information that is easily accessible to all of us. It is crucial to allow yourself to learn and keep up-to-date with the latest nail design trends and techniques. Don’t feel guilty if you spend time on these platforms watching nail tutorials. It’s a form of continued development!

I suggest that you attend at least one trade beauty show per year and challenge yourself to enter a contest – either online or in-person, especially if you have the vision of becoming an educator or nail brand ambassador. It helps you to build a personal brand, gain confidence in your skills and improve the way you price your services.

Receiving validation for your talent, and constructive feedback from others, builds your confidence. This can help you recognise the value of your work, and encourage you to charge more to aid your growth and success. Your pricing should not only reflect the cost of a service and your time, but the investment you pour into your professional development and business. I have seen too many talented people lose passion for their businesses due to burnout and lack of growth, and subsequently change their career to something ‘safer’. I can’t imagine my life without my nail business, and that’s why I give it my all every day. The rewards are definitely worth it!

Anastasia