How to Charge the Right Price as a Mobile Hairdresser

The very first step to growing your mobile hairdressing business is to charge correctly for all your services and ensure your services aren’t unnecessarily being discounted or undercharged.

To define your pricing in the best possible way, you should take into consideration these 3 elements:

• The required lowest price needed to cover all business overheads (travel, products, time)
• How your competitors’ price their services
• Your own level of experience

About us

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, offering hairdressers insurance and barbers insurance. We offer a range of tailored insurance products to protect our customers against unforeseen events.

 

How much should a self-employed hairdresser charge?

This is variable and depends on experience, how well established you are and where you are in the country. You may find it difficult to put your prices up later down the line, so you shouldn’t set it too low to begin with, even if initially your clients include just family and friends. However, as you gain experience working on your own and you build a loyal client base, you could increase your prices.

It’s best to do your research and find out what other self-employed hairdressers are charging in the area.

For example, outside of London, you would find hairdressers charge around £20 to £25 for a basic cut and style. If you’re working in London, the prices people expect to pay would be slightly higher.

You can choose two options when planning how to charge your clients:

Charging by time (Hourly pay)
An hourly rate can work well at ensuring that a freelance hair stylist is paid for all of the work that they carry out during a job. It is common for hair stylists to work overtime as their hours are very unpredictable. By charging by the hour, the hair stylist will be paid for every minute they work on the job.

Flat Rate
Flat rates are popular as they decrease the risk for the client. By giving a fixed fee before the job starts, both the hair stylist and the client know what is expected of them and there are no sneaky surprises that will affect the cost at the end.

You will find that majority of hairdressers choose to charge a flat rate fee.

It is also important to consider the overall costs of running your mobile hairdresser business. You can do this by using calculation tools.

 

What expenses can I claim as a mobile hairdresser?

You should take into account things you will be able to claim back on your tax return when calculating the costs you charge as a mobile hairdresser, to keep your prices competitive. Claiming for everything you are entitled to could save you hundreds of pounds every year.

Some of the main deductions include:

Travel Expenses
If you need to travel for work, then you will be able to claim certain travel expenses against your profits on your tax return. You can claim travel costs as long as you are only including travel which is undertaken for work purposes. This could include visiting clients, travel to training events or even to the bank to deposit your takings.

Materials and Equipment
From basics, such as scissors, shampoo and a hairdryer, to more specialised colouring and styling equipment, it can all be included as expenses on your tax return.

Clothing
You may wear a uniform when you work, if so, you will be able to claim back the costs as a business expense. You can also claim for any protective clothing that you have to purchase for work such as aprons and gloves.

Training
Keeping your skills up to date and learning new ones is a vital part of being a self-employed hairdresser, so if you attend any training or complete any courses that are directly related to the running of your business, then these are also deductible.

Marketing and Advertising
If you do any advertising to promote your services, you will be able to claim back some of the expenses.

Insurance
Any hairdresser will need Hairdressing Insurance without exception, so it is always best to make sure you are covered to ensure that you aren’t left footing the bill if anything happens, plus you can deduct the cost of your insurance against tax.

By taking into account expenses, you would be able to work out how much to charge as a mobile hairdresser to stay competitive.

If you are looking for more information on expanding your business, you can find out more in our blog on How to attract more clients to your business. 

 

Get Hairdressing Insurance from Protectivity

 

 

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date. 

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Top 7 Work Ethics Every Hairdresser Should Know

Whether you call it “salon ethics”, “rules of engagement” or “workplace etiquette”, there are certain codes of conduct which hairdressers need to respect and follow. Our 7 rules will take you on the fast track of success by having the right attitude, appropriate behaviour, and personal commitment.

The 7 rules of salon ethics are not only about bringing customers back, but also about sending them away happy enough to refer you to their friends. Here they are:

About us

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. We cover thousands of individuals and small to medium size businesses across the UK, including hairdressers insurance and barbers insurance. We offer a range of tailored insurance products to protect our customers against unforeseen events.

 

 

1. Be on time

If you have a policy about clients who are late then it is important that you are punctual. If you are a mobile hairdresser, you will probably be travelling to your clients, so ensure you allow enough time between clients and take into account things like traffic. Likewise, if you work in a salon ensure you are ready for the client when they arrive.

Sometimes things can be out of your control but be considerate and respectful of your customers’ time. Even if you are occasionally late, try not to make it a regular thing.

 

2. Keep your cell phone quiet and out of sight

It can come across as unprofessional to have someone who keeps checking their phone or answering private calls while performing a service. It’s best to leave your phone out of sight and on silent when you are with clients. If it is essential that your phone is on, let your friends/family know you are with a client and only to contact you if there is an emergency.

 

3. Get a clear understanding of what your client wants

Nothing is worse than your client leaving the salon feeling unsatisfied or disappointed with their hair. Make sure you know exactly what they want and reconfirm before you start. You could even show examples of what the client has asked for, to ensure you are on the right track. For example, if your client requests shorter hair, that might mean a trim, but to you it could indicate a complete style change.

 

4. Be prepared before your client arrives

Ask your clients exactly what they want before they arrive, so you know that you have all the right equipment/products to do the job. Then have all your tools ready to use, and sanitised before you reach a client’s house or the client arrives at the salon. Be prepared to offer your full attention to the client in your chair.

 

5. Remain courteous and professional when talking with your client

Avoid talking about volatile topics, including religion or politics. Watch your language, too, so that you don’t offend anyone. If possible, focus on the client’s interests and hobbies. Once you develop longstanding relationships with your customers you will begin to know what they enjoy talking about.

 

6. Be neat & dress professional

If you are working in a salon, you probably have a dress code to follow. At the same time, mobile hairdressers normally don’t adhere to such rules, however it is important to dress up appropriately around your clients. We are probably stating the obvious, but also make sure you are clean, neat and well-manicured.

Make sure your breath is clean and fresh, avoid excessive perfume and don’t forget to use your deodorant. You and your client will be in close quarters long enough to notice.

 

7. Be efficient

Regardless of whether you are a freelance, mobile or salon-based hairdresser, your efficiency is important not only for your personal growth, but also for the company you are working for. If you are wasting time, products or resources you will be ignoring another essential rule. Salon owners and clients can easily spot it, which doesn’t leave a good impression.

 

Get Hairdressing Insurance from Protectivity

 

 

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date. 

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With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.

How To Start A Dog Walking Business

How to become a dog walker

Britain is a nation of dog lovers, and everyone wants to make sure that their treasured terrier or cherished cockapoo stays fit and healthy.

The only problem is that with people living such busy lives, because of work, family and other commitments, it can be hard for them to find the time to give their dog proper exercise.

But their challenge could be your opportunity. All over the UK, many people are setting up their own dog walking businesses, taking people’s four-pawed friends out on a stroll for a pre-arranged fee.

It can be great fun and an excellent way to keep yourself fit – but it isn’t quite as simple as knocking on your neighbour’s door and grabbing hold of a lead.

Like any business, there are lots of things that need to be addressed to ensure that a dog walking business runs successfully. In this guide, we’ll take a look at all the steps you need to take to develop a successful dog walking business:

 

Experience is key!

Dogs can be challenging, especially if they’re not familiar with you, and that’s before considering that the temperament of dogs can vary substantially from one breed to another.

That’s why it’s vital that you have good experience of walking different types of dog (and not just your own if you have one!) before you start.

You’ve also got to be prepared for the weather. If pet owners have enlisted your services to walk their dog, they’ll be expecting you to provide that service even if the weather is bad.

Ensuring you have not only the right equipment and clothing, but also the right mentality for all-weather dog walking, is therefore very important.

Once you’re properly up and running, you should find yourself walking multiple dogs simultaneously. While you may feel confident and experienced enough to handle a large number of dogs, it’s worth considering what your realistic and practical limit would be.

Additionally, you may find that a limitation is placed on you by your insurer (read more about insurance below) – many insurers insist on a maximum of between four and six dogs at any one time.

 

Dog walking laws and regulations

It might seem like walking a dog is a very simple exercise, but when operating as a walking service, there are lots of rules and regulations that you may have to comply with. These include (but are not necessarily limited to)

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs)

PSPOs are put in place by local councils in particular areas to restrict the number of dogs in that space. These are typically local parks or areas where large numbers of dogs may congregate.

Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005

Offences such as failing to clear up dog poo properly or not keeping a dog on a lead fall under this legislation, in places where Dog Control Orders apply. Penalties can reach up to a maximum of a £1000 fine.

Control of Dogs Order 1992

All dogs in public places are required by law to wear a collar that includes the name and address of the dog’s owner. This can be written or engraved, but as a dog walker, you should ensure this information is present before you start each walk.

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

If a dog is considered to be ‘dangerously out of control’, then a criminal offence is being committed by the person deemed to be responsible for its control at the time.

Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953

If walking dogs around farmland or other rural areas, you should always keep them on leads and well away from any livestock. In the case of farmland, dogs must not chase or attack any kind of livestock; in this scenario, farmers are legally entitled to take measures to protect their animals, potentially up to the point of shooting the dog in question.

The Countryside Code

Although not necessarily legally binding, the UK Government’s Countryside Code provides helpful advice for walking dogs in rural areas responsibly. In particular, it advises to always keep a dog in sight or on a lead, ensure that a dog will return when commanded to do so, and to make sure a dog doesn’t stray into an area where right of way doesn’t apply.

 

Dog walking qualifications – do you need one?

There is no legal requirement to possess any specific qualifications to run a dog walking business. But getting some dog walking qualifications can be helpful: it can give you additional expertise and experience, and can give you some extra credibility when marketing to potential customers. Potential qualifications to explore include:

Animal care qualifications

Credentials that show an aptitude for taking good care of animals – such as animal behaviour or animal first aid – look good on any CV or website.

City & Guilds

There are a range of City & Guilds Technical Competence Certificates available that relate to dog walking. Of particular relevance are the Level 2 certificates in Dog Walking; Pet Sitting; and Animal Health, Husbandry and Handling; and the Level 3 certificate in Animal Nutrition.

Dog-specific qualifications

A variety of different bodies offer their own courses and certifications aimed at improving the standards of dog walking and animal care, including those at the National Association of Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers, and Think Dog.

 

Cost and finance considerations

There are plenty of things to take into account on the business side of things when starting out as a dog walker.

Formulating a good business plan should form part of your initial work, helping you establish how you’re going to attract and retain customers, how you can stand out from your competitors, and how you’ll operate day-to-day.

The business plan should also consider any costs you may incur in your operations, in particular around transport.

In bigger cities, it may be possible to use public transport to travel from one client to another (as long as the dog walking market isn’t already saturated).

However, in most cases, your own vehicle will be needed to get yourself around – and your dogs if you want to travel for walks further afield.

You will also need to make a decision about your business status. Initially, it may make more sense to operate as a sole trader, but if your business grows (especially to the point you start to employ other people) it may be beneficial to register as a limited company with Companies House instead.

 

Dog walking business administration

There are several other business-related duties that you’ll need to fulfil, both as part of the set-up process, and on an ongoing basis once you’re up and running. These include:

Checks

You will need to undergo and pass a criminal record check if you are to enter the houses of any of your customers, or hold their house keys at any point. This means applying to the Disclosure and Barring Service if you’re in England or Wales, Disclosure Scotland, or AccessNI if you’re in Northern Ireland.

Contracts

A solid contract, along with terms and conditions, are vital for clearly defining what you’ll do in return for payment, and to ensure you get paid. It also gives you valuable legal protection in the event of a dispute.

Accounting

Whether you’re a sole trader or limited company, you’ll still be expected to keep and file accounts for tax purposes. You should set up a small business bank account in order to keep business and personal money separate.

 

Marketing your dog walking business

Getting your dog walking business noticed is one of the most important parts of the job, and it can be one of the trickiest.

There are lots of different ideas you can pursue, but ideally you need to think of ways that stand you out from the crowd, whether that be through different services you offer, attractive pricing, good qualifications (as mentioned above), or through offers, referrals and incentives.

Then you can put these ideas into practice across a range of platforms and mediums. Don’t neglect the more traditional ways of marketing such as leaflets, placing adverts in the local paper or good old word of mouth – these marketing materials may be low-tech but they can still be very effective.

Then of course there’s social media (especially including videos), which should have a clear focus on driving interest towards people making bookings or enquiries, ideally through your website.

A website is essential but it doesn’t have to be overly complex: a few pages explaining who you are, what you do and what stands you out as the best choice gives customers all the information they need to know.

To take your marketing to the next level, consider the ways you can join the dots of all your marketing methods together and build a brand.

In the same way that big businesses have logos, imagery, colour schemes and a tone of voice that makes them instantly recognisable, you can apply many of the same principles on a smaller scale. If you can get these key communication skills right, then your business will be the first one that people think of when they decide to find a dog walker.

 

Obtain dog walking insurance

Like the qualifications, dog walking insurance is not a legal requirement, but we strongly recommend you take out a policy for a host of reasons.

Firstly, you never know what may happen to you or the dogs that you walk when you’re out and about. Dogs can jump out in front of people, cyclists or cars; they can attack other dogs or cats; their leads can trip up other people (or yourself if you aren’t careful!) – and that’s just three of the things that can happen.

Ensuring that you’re protected if you’re unable to work for whatever reason, and that you can cover any claims arising from injuries or accident damage, including any vet bills incurred.

Exploring public liability insurance and ‘Care, Custody and Control’ cover can ensure that both you and your business are protected, whatever the future may hold.

At Protectivity, we provide a host of dog walking insurance policies so that you can start your new business with confidence. Take a closer look at dog walking business insurance today, and find a wide-ranging policy at a price that suits you.

Get Dog Walking Insurance from Protectivity

 

 

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date. 

Last updated by

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Bee Ingram

With a focus on producing high-quality, consistent content across multiple platforms, Bee is committed to creating engaging and effective messaging that aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.