The Easiest Ways to Start a Side Hustle in NZ (Even If You Have a Full-Time Job) - Manicure & Pedicure
Starting a side hustle in manicure and pedicure services in New Zealand is a brilliant way to earn extra cash while sharing your passion for nail care and beauty. Whether you operate in Auckland, Wellington, or smaller communities, this guide provides practical tips to attract local clients and juggle your side business with your day job effectively.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Understand Local Beauty Trends
New Zealanders value natural, sustainable beauty options alongside vibrant nail art, with preferences varying across regions.
Weirdly enough, some smaller towns heavily favour classic manicures, while urban areas like Auckland embrace the latest nail trends.
Knowing these preferences helps you tailor your services to client expectations and stand out.
2. Create a Profile on Yada
Yada connects nail technicians with local clients without charging lead or success fees, making it ideal for side hustlers.
The platform's rating system rewards quality service with increased visibility and better client matches.
Its mobile-friendly chat and booking features make managing appointments and client communication on the go straightforward.
3. Offer Diverse Service Packages
Provide a mix of services including basic manicures, gel nails, acrylics, and pedicures to cater to a wide client base and budgets.
Offering bundle deals or loyalty discounts, like a manicure-pedicure combo, encourages repeat business, as seen in Wellington salons.
Flexibility in your offerings attracts diverse clients and helps you manage your time better between jobs.
4. Advertise on Local Beauty Directories
Besides Yada, list your services on community bulletin boards, beauty groups in Facebook, and platforms like BookBeauty.
Ensure your profile includes photos, pricing, and client testimonials to enhance credibility.
Visibility on trusted local directories increases your chances of steady bookings.
5. Gather and Showcase Client Testimonials
Happy clients are your best advocates. Request reviews and permission to share nail photos to build trust.
A Christchurch nail artist grew her clientele significantly after sharing glowing reviews and before/after photos online.
Positive testimonials help new clients feel confident choosing your services.
6. Network with Complementary Professionals
Collaborate with hairdressers, makeup artists, and local beauty shops to exchange referrals and co-host events.
An Auckland manicurist expanded her business by forming partnerships with local beauty salons and wellness centres.
Networking leads to sustained growth and wider client outreach.
7. Build a Simple Website or Portfolio
Use platforms like Wix or Google Sites to create a professional-looking, mobile-friendly website showcasing your services, portfolio, and contact details.
Regular updates with nail art trends and client testimonials keep visitors engaged.
A strong online presence reassures potential clients and supports bookings.
8. Share Nail Care Tips and Trends
Posting care advice, nail health tips, and trend highlights on Instagram and Facebook helps build engagement and trust.
Weirdly enough, genuine, simple content resonates well with Kiwi audiences, more than hard-selling ads.
Regular, helpful posts nurture your community and promote referrals.
9. Manage Bookings Efficiently
Use Yada’s appointment and chat features or scheduling apps like Calendly to stay organised and follow up with clients promptly.
Clear communication regarding availability and cancellations boosts professionalism and client satisfaction.
Good time management helps balance your side hustle with your primary work.
10. Keep Evolving Your Skills
Stay on top of new manicure and pedicure techniques, regulations, and nail health advances through workshops and ongoing training.
Joining New Zealand beauty industry groups offers networking and support.
Continual learning keeps your services fresh and enhances client trust.