According to the November 2023 issue of HJ, 39% of hair professionals are now freelance, with an additional 22% working as both freelance and employed. With over half of the industry therefore falling into the category of freelance hairdressers, ensuring that they are supported is vital for the continued growth of the sector.
Working freelance requires a significant amount of commitment and organisation, from bookings to buying wholesale, alongside actually doing hair. As a result, some priorities may slip down the list – including networking. Interacting with other members of the industry can help develop ideas and strengthen professional relationships, which can reflect well on your business. However, finding the time and opportunities to do so can be challenging, especially without the feeling of connection that employed hair professionals have – so in the spirit of networking, HJ asked mobile hairstylist Lauren Smith and freelance hairstylist Jayde Collins for their top tips on staying connected and networking with fellow hairdressers.
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Stay Up to Date
Lauren Smith explains: “Journals, hairdressing websites and social media are the easiest ways to stay in touch with new trends and technology in the hairdressing industry. Being freelance, this allows you to still feel part of a community and network with others – whereas being employed the networking information is naturally cascaded down to you. -
Embrace Your Independence
Jayde Collins tells us: “As a freelancer you get to develop networking relationships that are much more personal to you as an independent, which is one of my favourite parts of freelancing currently.” -
Use Your Time Well
Lauren explains: “I don’t think it’s harder to network as a freelancer as everyone is on social media nowadays, but I do think you have to put in the extra time for it. Being freelance you can pick and choose exactly what you want to learn about or what types of industry specialists you most want to connect with.” -
Put Yourself Out There
Jayde recommends: “My advice would be to create content on what you want to be doing. Is there a brand you love? Create a reel or TikTok using their products, tag them, and connect with them. Is there a stylist you would love to assist? Message them on Instagram and ask. Don’t be afraid to reach out.” -
Be Selective
Jayde advises: “I would avoid taking jobs for money or exposure if they are not true to you. I feel being authentic in our industry speaks volumes; you might work with less brands or photographers, but the ones you do work with will result in much better work and longer-lasting relationships. High quality brands look for people that fit their ethos, so taking a deal with a brand outside of that may result in you never getting a deal with the brand you really love and want to be a part of.”
Looking for more freelance support? Two freelance hairdressers share thier expereinces setting up retail here.
