How to take time off 💯

So you’re planning on taking some time off, but it can feel overwhelming when you have a clientele to keep up. Wether it’s a leave, a vacation, a medical reason, or just because taking time off from your regular working schedule requires some preparation. Now that summer is here I am experiencing this first hand so I’ve got some tips to ease the stress!

Book Early 

On your end, try to plan out any time off as far out as possible. I try to know my days off around six months at a time but I’m an over planner so it’s not unlikely that I have my entire year planned. Typically, as far out as your clients book is how far out your schedule should be set. If it’s too hard to plan in advance then set a limit on how many weeks your clients can pre book so there is no conflict down the road. 

Pre-Pre-Book

After you’ve blocked out your days off then the countdown is on! As your time off approaches, let your clients know of your upcoming plans and recommend they pre book (always) and then pre book again. This makes it easier on you and them. 

Extended Business Hours 

Along with extra pre booking, I’ve found that the only way to take consecutive days off is to extend my business hours before and after my time off. This is why pre booking is so important because it gives me an idea of what my business hours will need to look like. 

Have a Back up Plan 

If extending your business hours isn’t an option, or your time off is longer than the time between a fill then it’s our responsibility as the lash artist to give our clients options when it comes to referrals. I’ve helped other local artists while they are on maternity leave and it ran smoothly because 1. They reached out to me weeks In advance to confirm I would have openings  2. They communicated to their clients and 3. They prepped me with information about each client. Having a group of trusted referrals comes in handy!

Reminders

Like most things in life, communication is key! Continually remind your clients in the weeks prior as your time off is approaching, post on social media that you’ll be “out of the office”, and you can even send reminder messages to remind your clients of your time away.  

Save Accordingly 

It’s likely that you do not receive “paid time off” in the industry, so it’s helpful to plan ahead! This is when all the tips come together— plan your trip in advance so you can also budget in advance, pre book your clients so you’ll know exactly where your finances will be, and extend your business hours to boost your income and keep your average on track! 

Unplug & Enjoy

It can be really hard to take time off because of our reoccurring clientele, but with a little extra thought and work it is worth it! I know I feel like a crazy person during the days leading up to a vacation but I never regret it. Enjoy your time off and better yet unplug and respond to messages after your back to work.