PROS & CONS: Booth Rent, Commission, and Working from Home

One of the plus sides of working in the beauty industry is OPTIONS. We have options of where and how we want to work. Choosing which career path we want to take our business is one of the most important decisions we have to make. When it comes to booth rent, commission, or working from home there are advantages and disadvantages to each. If you are just starting out or wanting a change we are here to break it down for you. 

BOOTH RENT 

Pro: You are your own boss. 
Con: More expenses including rent and supplies. 
Pro: You make your own schedule. You can set your hours to match your life or your client’s schedules. 
Con: Not legally covered by the salon when it comes to liability. 
Pro: You choose what products you use and carry. 
Con: More responsibility and stress. (but typically more responsibility = more reward). 
Pro: You keep all of your earnings. 
Con: Not a guaranteed paycheck, it is even possible to end in the negatives. 

COMMISSION 

Pro: Not handling marketing, brining in your own clients, or stocking retail. 
Con: Having a set schedule and less freedom. 
Pro: Having a set income with additional commission. It’s a guaranteed paycheck.  
Con: You have to be at the salon whether you have a client or not.
Pro: Possible employee benefits such as insurance and a retirement plan. 
Con: Your prices are set by the salon. 
Pro: Less stress, as the business owner handles all logistics. 
Con: You are only making a percentage of what your clients pay.
Pro: Typically you have co-workers and work as a team. 

WORKING FROM HOME 

Pro: Possibly the most convenient and comfortable option. 
Con: Can be perceived as less professional. 
Pro: Complete control of everything. You control your space and your schedule. 
Con: Having at home distractions such as kids, pets, or the repair man. 
Pro: Great for working moms or someone with additional responsibilities at home. 
Con: Having “strangers” or new clients coming into your home. 
Pro: Easier to deal with clients rescheduling or cancelling. You can fill your time rather than sit at the salon. 
Con: Clients thinking that you are always available and flexible. 
Pro: No rent or additional salon cost. An inexpensive option.