Author: Stephanie Howey

09:54:07 GMT • 14 January 2025

5 Tips on How to Progress Your Hairdressing Career

24 February 2021

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Whether you are a hairdressing apprentice, a senior stylist or even a salon manager, you’ve got a job and you love the industry you work in. Even if that is the case, you probably don’t want to stay in the same position forever.

The hairdressing industry is an innovative, fast moving, image conscious business, so if you want to progress your career you will not only need to be passionate, creative and full of energy but also adaptive, skilful and ready to push boundaries.

Here are five tips that can help you to progress your hairdressing career. Trying them out could put you in a better position to move forward.

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, with products including hairdressing insurance and barber insurance We offer a range of tailored insurance products to protect our customers against unforeseen events.

1. Make A Plan – identify how you’d like to grow and stay focused on your goal

Where do you see yourself in five years and how will you find your way to that place? A clearly articulated set of goals will help you work towards your vision. Once you’ve clarified your goals, the next step will be to figure out what skills you will need to develop or strengthen, what types of experience you need to gain, and what connections will be helpful to encourage you before you make your next move.

If you are a beginner taking your first steps into your hairdressing career and see yourself as a Style Director, then you will need to build a wide range of skills, knowledge, and experience. You can get into this role through completing a college course (like a Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing), an apprenticeship or working towards this position.

2. Grow and Maintain Your Network Within Your Current Company

Many hairdressers take advantage of the numerous opportunities to network outside of their salons, underestimating the importance of networking at work. Networking within your salon is key to developing new skills and identifying opportunities for advancement.

Take time to meet people and nurture all your new and existing relationships in your hair salon. It can help position you for a future promotion or get you in on some of the new clients that come through the door. Your colleagues might also know about other salons that are hiring or have insight that can aid your professional development.

3. Attend Hairdressing Events

Attending hairdressing events will help you grow your skills and understanding of the latest hairdressing trends as well as allow you to meet other people who share the same passion and inspiration. It’s a great opportunity not only to talk to experts and leading members of the hair and barber industry but also to join the technical programmes which allow you to experiment with new methods.

It may not be easy to find a place for the annual British Hairdressing Awards, but there are plenty of other hairdressing events throughout the year such as Hair UK, Olympia Beauty, L’Oréal Professionnel Colour Trophy, Wella Professionals Trend Vision Award, Freelance Hairdressing Association’s Inspire! Event, Modern Barber Awards etc. Why not search for networking events through professional groups or sites such as Eventbrite, Facebook, LinkedIn, or Meetup.

If you ever organising a hairdressing event, we provide an event insurance policy which might be of interest to you.

4. Find A Mentor

Mentors can help you identify and work on the skills you need to succeed in your field. They’ll provide coaching and support when you are having difficulties and need some motivation.

Perhaps there is a highly experienced hair stylist you admire, someone in a hairdressing group you are part of who is always suggesting new techniques, or a more experienced alum from your college who is a hairdressing magician.

Once you find your mentor, you need to set up a regular meeting with them and ask them for feedback on your professional development or have a discussion about which skills you should build to enhance your hairdressing career.

5. Take Courses to Strengthen Your Skills and Learn New Ones

There are tons of hairdressing courses that you can take on your own time to set yourself up for future career opportunities. Refer back to the list of skills you made earlier and make sure you identify a course that will help you achieve your goals.

They will teach you everything from the trendiest styling techniques to providing in depth consultations and recommendations to your most demanding male and female clients.

Whether you choose to enrol into a university, college or a specific hairdressing course there are many accredited institutions that offer professional hairdressing qualifications. It’s probably worth making sure that your diploma is accredited by the internationally recognised governing body VTCT. Learning new skills even through an online course can set you up for a promotion or new job by making you a more attractive candidate.

Whatever route you take, a career in hairdressing comes with flexibility and the chance to continuously develop your skills. When you can’t achieve the usual signs of career growth, it’s natural to feel stuck and unmotivated. But by following these five simple steps, you can invest in your own professional development and set yourself up for larger opportunities and new positions once the right time comes.

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09:53:48 GMT • 14 January 2025

What are the 7 types of Massage?

11 January 2021

•

7 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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The practice of using touch as a healing method dates back thousands of years ago. Ancient civilisations found that massage could heal injuries, relieve pain, and produce deep relaxation. Today, if you need a massage, you can choose from about 200 different types of massage, each providing a wide variety of pressures, movements, and techniques.

Moreover, massage therapies often offer a complex combination of holistic healing practices that involve physical, emotional and spiritual elements. Whether you’d like to relax, or have a health condition or injury, choosing your massage style can be confusing if you’re not quite sure what it involves. Here is our list of the most popular 7 types of massage.

Protectivity provides specialist Massage Therapy Insurance. We protect thousands of holistic therapy businesses across the UK.

1. Swedish Massage

What does it involve? Swedish massage is known as classic or standard type of massage, which is widely practiced in most clinics, gyms, spas, and wellness centres. Using lotion or oil, massage therapists combine kneading, deep circular motions, and long flowing strokes in the direction of the heart.

What are the main benefits? Swedish massage provides full-body muscle relaxation, and it can be especially helpful if you are recovering from minor injury. But the benefits of Swedish massage go beyond relaxation. It can help increase the level of oxygen in the blood, improve circulation and flexibility and help you with pain and muscle rehabilitation.

If you are a therapist and need Swedish Massage Insurance, you can get a quote and purchase it from Protectivity.

2. Sports Massage

What does it involve? The main purpose of the sports massage is to manipulate the body’s soft tissues and emphasis on certain muscle groups depending on which sport the athlete plays. During the treatment, the therapist applies strokes that are generally faster than a typical Swedish massage. They may also include compression, pressure point therapy, friction and joint mobilization.

What are the main benefits? Sports massage was originally used by athletes to prepare for or recover from sporting events. Although the treatment was intended for sports persons in the past, it is now sought out by amateur gym-goers and even those who suffer from stress. The application of sports massage, prior to and after exercise, may enhance performance, aid recovery, and prevent injury.

If you are a therapist and need Sports Massage Insurance, you can get a quote and purchase it from Protectivity via the above link.

3. Hot Stone Massage

What does it involve? A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy during which basalt heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. The massage therapist holds the stones while giving the massage. The stones are heated to between 54 and 63 degrees Celsius and normally retain their heat for an hour.

What are the main benefits?
Hot stone massage is used to help you relax and ease tense muscles and damaged soft tissues throughout your body. Hot Stone Massage has been specifically associated with symptom relief in people with autoimmune disorders. It also promotes good sleep, increases joint flexibility, and reduces inflammation and muscle spasms.

You can get a quote and buy Hot Stone Insurance from Protectivity via the above link.

4. Aromatherapy

What does it involve? Aromatherapy massage involves soft, gentle pressure in combination of scented essential oils. During the aromatherapy massage, you’ll receive a full-body massage while inhaling essential oils through a diffuser and absorbing them through your skin. Sometimes an aromatherapy massage will only focus on your back, shoulders, and head.

What are the main benefits? Aromatherapy massage is ideal for people who want to add an emotional healing component to their massage. This type of massage can help boost your mood, reduce stress, relieve muscle tension and pain.

If you are therapist and need Aromatherapy Insurance, you can get your quote and cover here.

5. Reflexology

What does it involve? Reflexology is a type of massage that uses gentle to firm pressure on key points such as your feet, hands, and ears. Reflexologists believe that those pressure points correspond to other parts of your body and massaging them stimulates your nervous system to heal itself. It is normally preferred by people who are not comfortable being touched over their entire body and they can remain fully clothed during the treatment.

What are the main benefits? Reflexology is linked to many potential benefits, but only a few of them have been evaluated in scientific studies. People claim that this type of massage could help you improve your immune system, boosts blood circulation, reduces stress and toxins.

You can get a quote and buy Reflexology Insurance from Protectivity via the above link.

6. Thai Massage

What does it involve? Thai massage is an ancient healing practice and uses very different technique compared to the standard Swedish massage. It’s a unique combination of assisted yoga, passive stretching, and pressing massage movements. The therapist uses rhythmic compression along the body’s energy lines and moves and stretches you in a sequence of postures, usually on a mat on the floor.

What are the main benefits? Thai massage can benefit your health in numerous ways, many of which are supported by scientific studies. Thai massage aligns the energies of the body and helps reduce stress, promotes relaxation, and improve flexibility and circulation.

You can get a quote and buy Thai Massage Insurance from Protectivity via the above link.

7. Indian Head Massage

What does it involve? Indian Head Massage is a therapeutic method that sees pressure being applied in circles to the scalp, deep tissue massage strokes on the neck and shoulders, and tension-releasing stretches of the neck. It is a favourite option for people involved in office work who normally have bad posture as it helps relieve the tension that builds up in the head, neck and shoulders.

What are the main benefits? Indian Head Massage has numerous benefits, but it is mostly complemented for relieving migraine pains and stress, hair follicle stimulation and removing toxins not only from the upper body, but the entire lymphatic system.

Get a quote and buy Indian Head Massage Insurance from Protectivity by clicking on the above link.

Massage therapy is a treatment approach that is growing in demand and popularity. From helping with stress, pain management to injury recovery and muscle rehabilitation, you are now aware of what different types of massage can do for you. Hopefully, in this blog we’ve helped you decipher the many different styles and benefits of massage so you can book the one that’s best for you.

At Protectivity, we provide a wide range of what we believe are cost-effective insurance solutions for therapy professionals including Reiki Insurance, Counselling Insurance, Massage Insurance and many more. To see if your speciality can be covered, just visit our Therapy Insurance page and input your technique into the quote box. If we can cover the activity, we will provide you with an instant price.

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09:53:30 GMT • 14 January 2025

Most Common Health and Safety Hazards for Hairdressers

19 November 2020

•

7 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

While hairdressing might not seem like a high-risk profession, it comes with its own set of health and safety challenges. Hairdressers work with sharp tools, electrical appliances, and potentially hazardous chemicals daily. Prolonged standing, repetitive movements, and exposure to fumes can also lead to chronic health issues if risks aren’t properly managed. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries, with salons being no exception.

Beyond personal safety, ensuring a secure working environment is vital for protecting clients. A simple oversight—such as failing to perform a patch test before a colour treatment—can result in allergic reactions, leading to distress for the client and potential legal consequences for the stylist. Personal injury claims can be costly, not just financially but also in terms of reputation. This is why implementing robust health and safety procedures, combined with specialist Hairdressing Insurance, is essential for any professional in the industry.

This health and safety overview for hairdressers will explore the key risks, industry regulations, and best practices for maintaining a safe and professional environment. By understanding these hazards and taking proactive measures, hairdressers can protect themselves, their clients, and their businesses.

Common health and safety hazards for hairdressers

As a hairdresser, you regularly handle water, chemicals, electrical appliances, and sharp tools. With this in mind, there are several health and safety risks to consider, including:

Chemical Hazards

Hair dyes, peroxide, bleaches, perm solutions, and straightening creams contain chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Daily exposure may lead to serious health issues affecting the immune, reproductive, neurological, and respiratory systems.

Slip and Fall Hazards

Slips and falls are a common cause of insurance claims in salons. Clipped hair, product spills, and wet floors pose slip risks, while loose cords from straighteners, dryers, and curling irons can be trip hazards.

Body Strain

Standing all day puts strain on the body, particularly the feet and back, increasing the risk of venous disorders and varicose veins. Hairstylists also perform repetitive hand and wrist movements, which can lead to stress injuries.

Electrical Shock and Fire

Blow dryers, straighteners, and other electrical tools are often used near water, increasing the risk of electric shocks or burns if equipment is wet or faulty. Regularly checking cords and plugs and keeping a maintenance log is essential.

Blades and Sharp Instruments

Scissors and razors can cause injuries if not handled carefully. Working with sharp tools increases the risk of cuts for both staff and clients, as well as potential blood transmission hazards.

Heavy Lifting and Moving Furniture

Lifting heavy salon supplies or moving furniture can strain back muscles, leading to pain and discomfort. Taking precautions when handling heavy items can help prevent musculoskeletal injuries.

Health and Safety regulations in hairdressing

To maintain a safe working environment, hairdressers must follow industry regulations and best practices.

Key Health and Safety Laws

Health and Safety at Work Act (1974): This law places a duty on employers to ensure a safe working environment for all employees and clients. Hairdressers must comply with health and safety protocols to minimise risks.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH): Hair products contain chemicals that can be harmful if not handled correctly. COSHH regulations require proper storage, handling, and disposal of these substances to reduce exposure.
Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR): Employers must report serious workplace accidents, injuries, and occupational illnesses to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) under RIDDOR.
Hair and Barber Council: This organisation promotes professional standards and hygiene within the industry, encouraging hairdressers to register for accreditation.

Safe work practices in hairdressing

The best way to avoid hazards in a salon is through prevention. By implementing clear procedures, hairdressers can minimise risks and create a safe working environment.

Risk Assessments

Regular risk assessments are essential to identify and control potential hazards. Employers should evaluate the salon’s layout, equipment, and daily tasks to pinpoint risks such as slippery floors, exposed electrical cords, or poorly ventilated areas with chemical fumes. A written risk assessment should outline hazards, who might be affected, and the steps taken to reduce the risks. For example, if a particular hair dye has a high likelihood of causing skin irritation, implementing a mandatory patch test before use can help prevent allergic reactions.

Emergency Procedures

Having clear emergency procedures ensures that staff can act quickly in dangerous situations. Every salon should have a fire safety plan, including the location of fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and evacuation routes. Additionally, protocols for dealing with chemical spills should be in place, such as providing protective gloves and having a designated area to handle hazardous substances safely. Regular fire drills and emergency response training can ensure that all staff know what to do in a crisis.

Training

Ongoing training is crucial for ensuring that all staff members understand how to prevent and respond to workplace hazards. Training should cover safe handling of chemicals, proper lifting techniques, and how to use electrical tools safely. It should also include customer safety measures, such as checking for contraindications before performing chemical treatments. New employees should receive thorough induction training, while existing staff should have refresher courses to stay updated with best practices.

First Aid

Salons must have a well-stocked first aid kit containing plasters, antiseptic wipes, burn treatments, and bandages. A trained first aider should always be present to handle minor injuries, such as cuts from scissors or burns from styling tools. Having a procedure for dealing with more serious incidents—such as a client fainting or an allergic reaction—ensures that immediate and appropriate care is provided. First aid training should be updated regularly to keep staff prepared for any medical emergency.

Client Safety

A client’s safety is just as important as the hairdresser’s. Patch testing before colour treatments can prevent allergic reactions, while proper consultation helps identify any pre-existing conditions that could affect a service. Maintaining a clean and hygienic salon is essential—sterilising tools, washing towels after each use, and ensuring workstations are tidy can help prevent infections and cross-contamination. Additionally, ensuring that chairs, sinks, and styling equipment are correctly adjusted to each client’s comfort reduces the risk of strain or injury.

By focusing on prevention and implementing structured procedures, hairdressers can create a safer salon environment for both staff and clients.

Get Specialist Hairdresser Insurance from Protectivity

However well prepared you are regarding health and safety compliance and procedures, there is a chance thing can go wrong with you facing an expensive claim.

The best way to protect yourself from these scenarios is with specialist hairdressing insurance, which Protectivity provides for hundreds of ambitious stylists just like you. We also offer barber’s insurance for those who cut men’s hair.

With our affordable cover, you can protect yourself and your business from loss, theft or damage of your own professional property and equipment; and any damage accidentally caused at the home of one of your clients.

If you’re a self-employed, freelance or mobile hairdresser, our Hairdressing Insurance has you covered. Get a quote today.

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09:40:46 GMT • 13 March 2025

Do Pet Sitters Need Insurance?

26 August 2020

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

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It is strongly advised that anyone in the UK who is running a professional pet sitting business should take out pet sitting insurance. This advice should also be considered by those who are pet sitting on an amateur basis.

Professional pet sitting is considered a relatively low-risk activity, but the risks that can present themselves for the person who is responsible for a clients’ pet(s), and in many cases the clients’ home, can be significant.

What is Pet Sitter Insurance?

Pet sitter insurance is designed to protect you financially against claims that may arise due to accidents while you are pet sitting. As a pet sitter, pet boarder, or animal minder, you are responsible for the safety of your clients’ animals and their actions while in your care.

What sort of insurance do pet sitters need?

Public Liability

Public liability insurance covers you in the event you are sued by a third party (e.g., a member of the public) for injury or damage to their property. This cover includes the legal costs associated with defending yourself in court, as well as any damages deemed payable.

For example, if a dog in your care damages a third party’s property, your client may hold you liable and ask you to cover the cost of repairs or replacement. Public liability is often the first type of insurance professional pet sitters consider, especially those just starting out.

Employers Liability

If you employ anyone in your pet sitting service, even temporarily or on a voluntary basis, the law requires you to have employers’ liability insurance. This policy protects you against claims made by employees for property damage, injury, or illness that occurs while working for you.

Care, Custody & Control

This is one of the most critical aspects of pet sitter insurance. It provides coverage for your clients’ pets and personal property while they are under your care, custody, or control. This includes pets being transported in a vehicle or pet taxi.

Equipment Cover

If you board animals in your home, you’ll likely use additional supplies such as leashes, toys, and emergency medical equipment. Equipment cover ensures that if your tools of the trade are lost or damaged, you can make a claim to help with replacement costs.

Non-Negligent Cover

Non-negligent cover protects you against accidental loss, injury, illness, or death of an animal in your care through no fault of your own.

For instance, if an animal in your care injures itself and requires treatment, non-negligent cover helps protect you against the associated costs.

What is the cost of pet sitting insurance?

The cost of pet sitting insurance typically ranges from £5 to £6 per month. However, prices can vary depending on the level of cover you choose and the specific risks associated with your business.

While cheaper alternatives may be available, it’s essential to ensure they offer comprehensive coverage for all the scenarios you might encounter as a pet sitter. Paying slightly more for a policy that includes critical protections, such as emergency vet bills and public liability, is often a worthwhile investment.

Typical scenarios you might need pet sitting insurance

Pet sitting involves a variety of responsibilities and risks, which is why having the right insurance is essential. Here are some common scenarios where pet sitting insurance can provide vital support:

Emergency vet bills

If an animal in your care is injured or falls ill, even through no fault of your own, you may be held responsible for covering emergency veterinary costs. For instance, a dog might swallow a foreign object during a walk, requiring immediate treatment.

Damage caused by animals

If a pet you are looking after damages property—such as chewing through furniture, scratching doors, or breaking valuable items—you could be liable for the cost of repairs or replacements.

Injury to a third party

A pet in your care could accidentally injure someone, such as knocking over a passerby or biting a visitor to your home. Public liability insurance covers legal and compensation costs in such situations.

Loss or theft of pet

If a pet escapes or is stolen while under your care, insurance can cover the costs of locating and recovering the animal, as well as any potential compensation claims from the owner.

By protecting yourself against these scenarios, pet sitting insurance ensures peace of mind and allows you to focus on providing exceptional care to your clients’ pets.

Where can I buy Pet Sitting Insurance from?

Whilst several providers may offer pet sitting insurance, it’s important to check whether they provide specialist cover for the typical scenarios you might face. Providers such as Protectivity can offer the specialist cover you need. Look at their reviews to confirm their credibility and ensure they are a trusted choice.

Get your Pet Sitting Insurance today

Now you know what it is you need; you are all set to purchase your Pet Sitting Insurance. At Protectivity, we can provide all the above in one comprehensive policy.

Use our quick quote system to get your complete Protectivity Pet Sitting Insurance cover in just a few minutes.

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. Our extensive product offering includes pet business insurance, hairdressing insurance, gym insurance and insurance for personal trainers.

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12:36:39 GMT • 20 January 2025

PPE Guidance for Hairdressers and Barbers

12 August 2020

•

3 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

With salons officially open in the wake of the coronavirus lockdown, it’s incredibly important to make sure you have the right salon Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) available, both for your team and your clients.

We have put together the main types of PPE your salon will need…

Face shields

Clear plastic face visors provide a barrier between your face and your client. For this reason, they have been named as an official requirement for hairdressers and barbers who cannot maintain the full 2 metre social distance during any treatment or service.

Disposable Salon Face Masks

Face masks are now a requirement for all staff and clients whilst in a hairdressing salon and barbers.

Perspex Disposable Gloves

While handwashing is recommended as the most effective way to stop the virus spreading, gloves can give clients extra reassurance, particularly during manicures.

However, even when wearing gloves, you should still wash hands regularly and avoid touching your face, otherwise, they will not be effective.

Hygiene Screens

For reception desks and between salon chairs, perspex hygiene screens can add some extra reassurance for times when the full 2 metre social distance might not be entirely possible.

Salon Uniform and Disposable Aprons/Gowns

It has also been advised by the government that staff are provided with disposable aprons and clients use disposable gowns, rather than washable ones.

Hand Sanitiser

Having hand sanitizing points across the salon can help reduce cross-contamination and help clients feel safe. While handwashing with soap and water is still the most effective hygiene measure, sanitiser is particularly useful for when clients first enter the salon.

Disposable Towels

These are ideal for hairdressers and barbers that are washing client’s hair, disposable towels reduce the need to continuously wash your towels after every client.

Should you ask clients to wear PPE?

According to the government guidelines, you will need to ask clients to wear a face mask in all hairdressing and barber shops from 8th August 2020.

There is also official government guidance on reopening your salon, which covers everything from PPE to hygiene procedures, social distancing and more.

About Protectivity

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 and barbers, offering a range of tailored insurance products to protect our customers against unforeseen events

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09:51:29 GMT • 14 January 2025

Top 5 Project Management Apps for Small Businesses

By Bee Ingram

1 July 2020

•

3 mins read

Contributors

My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns wi...

Whether you’re a professional dog walker, hairdresser or personal trainer, project management apps can have a beneficial impact on the way you keep on top of your daily tasks, projects, and teamwork.

We have picked out five of the best project management apps for small businesses, to help keep things running smoothly.

Trello

Whether you need to monitor daily tasks or oversee the completion of a new marketing strategy, Trello lets you organize anything in a fun and flexible way. It is incredibly user-friendly and is based on Kanban boards, it works like a virtual whiteboard with post-it-notes.

Trello is great for organizing your to-do lists, ideas, and is very easy to use. You can create several boards to use for various projects, and best of all it’s FREE. Trello is available to iOS and Android users as well.

Asana

If you are looking for something that is not difficult to use, check out Asana. This is a great task management app that can be used for managing projects as well.

Asana helps you create and share task lists with your team, task prioritization helps teams to be more productive and efficient and all the changes are updated in real-time. The app is simple but smart enough.

Asana is free for up to 15 team members.

Chanty

Chanty is a team chat app that lets you communicate and collaborate with your team. As well as the chat feature, Chanty also allows audio, video calls and screen sharing. Some other cool features include project management, threaded communication, and integrations with other apps such as Dropbox, Trello, GitHub and many others.

Monday.com

If you’d like to plan, organize, track projects in one collaborative space, Monday.com could the right tool for you. Manage any workflow or process and be ready to address any challenge from the simple to the not-so-simple with total ease. Keep up to date with where everything stands and plan for the future with an easily digestible overview.

ProofHub

ProofHub is an all-in-one project management app. It comes packed with powerful features to eliminate the need of having too many different tools to run your business.

Keep all your projects, teams, and communications in one place. It makes it easy to create plans, collaborate with teams and clients and keep things organized.

About Protectivity

Protectivity is a specialist in niche commercial, leisure and lifestyle insurance. Our extensive product offering includes hairdressing insurance, insurance for personal trainers, pet business insurance and much more.

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09:40:42 GMT • 11 November 2024

What Insurance Do I Need as a Mobile Hairdresser?

17 June 2020

•

3 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

As a Mobile hairdresser, you may wonder if you need to insure your small business. You may think the risks associated with you business are small, but there is quite a lot that could go wrong, and unlike a large business, smaller businesses are not always able to absorb unexpected costs that a claim could cause.

The three main forms of insurance that a mobile hairdresser needs are public liability insurance, equipment cover and personal accident, although there are other types of insurance that should be consider

Public Liability

Public liability insurance is essential for any mobile hairdresser. It covers injury or damage to a third-party or their property, such as causing a burn when using dye on a client’s hair.

In the event of your business being blamed for an incident such as the one above, your Public Liability will provide cover for the legal costs associated with defending you in court plus any damages that are deemed payable.

There are losts of risks which could lead to costly legal cases. With no public liability insurance in place, you will be liable for those costs, putting both you and your mobile hairdressing business at risk. Protectivity ‘s Mobile Hairdressing Insurance provide up to £10 million in Public Liability Insurance as standard.

Equipment Cover

The tools in which you use for your hairdressing business are vital for you to carry out your service. Therefore, damage or loss of your equipment can have a problematic effect, not to mention placing a significant financial hit on your business in having to replace them.

Protectivity can provide up to £12,000 of cover for items of equipment you use to run your business. You can be protected should your scissors, dryers, chairs or other items be damaged, lost or stolen.

Find out more about hairdressing supplies and equipment cover here.

Personal Accident Cover

It’s possible that an injury or an illness could leave you unable to work and, if you’re self-employed, you won’t have access to sick pay to help you pay your bills while you recover.

Personal accident insurance provides cover which could result in you receiving a lump sum payment if you are seriously injured or killed in an accident whilst at work and carrying out the activities for which you are insured.

This provides cover for the following instances:

Accidental death
Temporary total disablement
Permanent loss of the use of one or more limbs
Loss of sight in one or more eyes
Dental expenses
Hospital benefit

What does our Hairdressing Insurance cover?

Our Hairdressing Insurance provides financial protection to self-employed, freelance and mobile hairdressers.

The policy can cover your business for:

Public Liability for Professional Treatment & Products Liability
Third Party Property Damage
Equipment and Stock
Equipment Hire
Employers’ Liability
Personal Accident

About Protectivity

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09:50:45 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Start a Mobile Hairdressing Business

30 January 2020

•

6 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Mobile hairdressing has existed as a business for decades but, as with all industries, it has seen many changes. What does the hairdressing business and specifically the mobile hairdressing business look like today? What are the factors to be considered when setting up a business in 2020 and do mobile hairdressers need insurance?

Setting Prices

When starting any new business, it is important to clarify what services you will be offering and at what price. Do some research on other mobile hairdressing businesses in the area and make sure that your prices are in the same range. Consider the experience that you have and any areas of expertise. For example, a hairdresser who has been in the business for 20 years is likely to be able to charge a higher price than someone who is newly qualified. Consider all your outgoings too, including the products that you will be using and fuel, when setting prices. You can also get a good indication on fees from our blog How Much Does A Barber Earn.

Time Starved Clients

We hear it over and over again, and most of us experience it too. The demands on our time are increasing and as such we often feel like our personal time is being squeezed. With this in mind, any mobile hairdresser who wants to be busy needs to consider offering appointments on days and times to suit the clients. This might mean evening, weekend or lunchtime appointments to fit in with commitments of work or children.

It is also important to manage your own time, and this means ensuring that you allow enough time for each appointment and for travelling in between them. Don’t be tempted to book too many clients in and cause yourself stress. Make sure that you are well prepared with petrol, food and clients phone numbers in case you do get stuck.

Marketing Materials

When setting up a new business it is essential to make yourself known. One of our recent blogs How To Market Your Hairdressing Business To Attract New Clients provides some good tips on that. There are also several low-cost ways of achieving this.

Website

Have a basic website which includes your contact information, details of how to book as well as the services you offer with prices so that potential clients can find the information that they need easily.

Facebook

A Facebook page is also a great way of promoting your business within the local area. There are local Facebook groups within most areas which give you the opportunity to post about the services you offer or any promotions that you have and attract new clients.

Online Directories

There are several directories available online for people to find businesses and services within their local area. Identify the best ones in your area and make sure that your business is listed. Make sure that you keep your contact details up to date so that potential new clients can get in touch easily!

Leaflets

Having a supply of leaflets is a great way of getting your business known. You can leave a supply with other local businesses to help establish yourself within the community. They should be simple, professional and provide basic information such as business name, contact information and an overview of the services that you offer.

Business Cards

These can be as well as or instead of leaflets as a way of getting your information out into the community. Don’t forget that business cards are smaller and therefore more restrictive on the amount of information that you can include on them. Find whatever works best for you and your business.

Insurance

Insurance is important for all businesses and so having Hairdressing Insurance in place is essential to protect yourself from the risks that exist. For example, if you accidentally spill hair dye on a client’s carpet then a client can make a claim against you. In this case, Public Liability Insurance will protect you by covering the associated legal and damage costs. You might also want to consider insurance to cover your equipment and products in case they are stolen or damaged whilst you are working.

Customer Database

Getting hold of new clients is one thing; but keeping hold of them is quite another. Repeat clients are more valuable than new clients, who can cost more in terms of effort to attract them. So, it is well worth doing what you can to ensure that you keep hold of clients once you have them. This can be achieved through providing a great service and good customer care, by offering to book their next appointment before you leave and by keeping in contact. Once a client has booked their details can be added to a database (an excel spreadsheet will suffice). Be sure to get permission to hold their personal data though and follow the GDPR guidelines. Once you have a database then you can send out emails or newsletters on a regular basis advising of any new products or services that you offer, any promotions that you are running and prompt clients to book an appointment. If you time the distribution of this newsletter right, then you can reach customers at a time when they are most receptive (evenings and lunchtimes work best for those working 9am-5pm for example).

The provisions that any hairdressing business will need to make will very much depend on the demands that the clients make, whether it is value for money, customer service or flexible appointments, the focus of any business should always be on meeting the needs of their customer base.

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09:50:29 GMT • 14 January 2025

How to Market Your Hairdressing Business to Attract New Clients?

10 January 2020

•

5 mins read

Contributors

Steffi joined the business in July 2017 as Business Support Executive. Steffi completed her degree in Sports and ...

Clients are essential for any hairdressing business and whilst providing good customer service, a warm and welcoming atmosphere and competitive prices are key to keep clients, how do you get new clients in the first place?

Here are some tips for marketing your hairdressing business to attract new clients.

Marketing your hairdressing business

Create a Website

Make sure that your website represents your hairdressing business in the way that you want it to, ensuring the branding (i.e. look and feel) is consistent with how you want your business to be presented. Use your website to capture details of potential customers by asking visitors to sign up to receive a regular newsletter which will give them information about products and services and maybe some hair care tips. You then have a database of potential clients who you can contact and incentivise to book an appointment.

Start Blogging

Any extra information that you can give clients will look positive for your hairdressing business and additional website content focused around key search terms will drive more traffic to your website and hopefully attract new clients. Feature blogs on your website which will be relevant to your customers such as hair care tips, how to choose the perfect hairstyle and beauty advice.

Utilise Social Media

One of the most effective methods of communicating within the local community is using social media. Make sure that you have a Facebook page which incorporates your business’ branding. Keep this up to date with relevant information, news and offers. Share details of promotions or new products and services on this page and then within local community groups. Use Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat to showcase hairstyles and engage consumers.

Get your business on Online Directories

There are a number of online directories which enable people to search for plumbers, builders, childcare even hairdressers. Make sure that your salon or hairdressing business are listed on these directories and ensure that the information is kept up to date with contact details, opening hours and any offers that you have available with a link to your website and booking details.

Launch a Refer A Friend scheme

Word of mouth is one of the most effective marketing methods for most businesses. People are more likely to trust recommendations from their friends. So, ensure that all your clients receive a good service and haircut from you so that they leave with a positive experience which they are hopefully going to talk about. You could provide an incentive for clients who spread the word with a reward of a discount on their next appointment or free hair styling product if they make a recommendation to a friend who then books an appointment. If your client says that they are happy with the service at the end of their visit, then don’t be afraid to ask them to recommend you!

Marketing Materials

There are potentially lots of marketing materials that you could spend money on. But essentially, leaflets are a great way to promote your salon and all the services that you can offer. There are plenty of opportunities to share leaflets in the local community, you could talk to local businesses and ask them to display your leaflets and in return, you could do the same for them. Local newspapers will distribute leaflets for you with the paper at a small cost.

Get involved with local Events

Supporting local events can be a great way to promote your business. For example, could you provide a raffle prize at the local school offering a free haircut? This may then get a potential new client through the door, who will hopefully rebook but if they enjoy their experience then they might recommend you to their friends.

Getting that first appointment

Introductory offer

Many salons will offer an introductory discount for the first appointment that you book. Repeat clients are worth more than new ones, so it could be a good way of attracting a client into your salon and then hopefully get a repeat booking when they experience excellent service and a great new haircut!

Open days

You could hold an open day to link with a local event or just as a celebration. For example, you could have a Christmas event with the opportunity to include past, present and potential clients. You could serve mince pies and mulled wine and provide people with a chance to see the salon. If you have beauty treatments within the salon, you could always offer a little taster as part of the event with the hope of securing future bookings.

Repeat appointments

You have booked a client in for their first appointment, but how do you make sure that they book their next haircut with you? A Loyalty programme is a great way to lock customers in to booking repeat service with you and is relatively easy and low cost to introduce. Many schemes will provide a card or online version to record each appointment and then reward the customer with a discount off their 6^th haircut or a free head massage or similar incentive to keep booking with you.

So, if marketing your hairdressing business feels like a daunting task then try some of these tips to attract new clients into your salon. Be sure to provide these clients with a great service and haircut to ensure that they come back to you again and again.

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