Resources

How to Get Your First 10 Clients as a Nail Tech

Launch a nail business with a focused menu, local visibility, and a repeatable review and referral loop.

nail tech manicure closeup
Read time: 8 min Best for: Independent nail techs Includes: Scripts, pricing guidance

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Build a focused menu that sells itself.

When you are starting out, a smaller menu makes you look confident. Pick one signature set and one maintenance option. You can add extras later, but early success comes from clarity and speed.

Price your signature set so it is worth your time. Avoid racing to the bottom. If you offer a launch price, make it time-limited and keep the full price visible.

  • Signature set: 60 to 90 minutes with one clear look.
  • Maintenance fill: shorter, predictable timing.
  • Optional add-on: simple art or chrome as a fixed fee.

Create a portfolio that makes clients feel safe.

Clients choose nail techs based on visual proof. You do not need hundreds of photos. You need a small, consistent set with clean lighting and close-ups of your finishing work.

If you are short on content, offer a limited model call. Keep it clear that it is for portfolio and provide a specific look to avoid scope creep.

  • Use the same background for every photo.
  • Show one wide shot and one detail shot per set.
  • Highlight sanitation and clean tools in one image.

Start with local visibility and clear availability.

Local clients book fast when they know exactly when you are available. Share your next five openings and link directly to booking. This creates urgency without discounts.

  • Google Business Profile: add your services and photos.
  • Neighborhood groups: post with two or three time slots.
  • Local salons or suites: leave a card with a QR code.

Build trust with reviews and referrals.

Ask for a review the same day. The best time is right after the client posts a photo or compliments the set. Keep the ask simple and include the link.

Review script

Thank you for coming in today. If you loved your set, would you mind leaving a quick review? It helps me grow. Here is the link.

If you have a friend who would love this style, feel free to share my booking link.

Turn one set into a repeat client.

Nail maintenance is routine. Offer a rebooking recommendation before the client leaves and make the next step easy. Two options feel helpful instead of pushy.

  • Gel or structured sets: suggest 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Classic manicure: suggest 3 to 4 weeks.
  • Send a short follow-up with the exact link to rebook.