There are many good reasons to open a cosmetic practice. You likely love working with people, helping people feel better about themselves, and improving people’s quality of life. The cosmetic business is deeply tied to your client’s self esteem–people come to you to be rejuvenated, inside and out. If you’re interested in opening your own cosmetic practice, here are some simple tips to begin.
Establish Your Skills
If you’re trained in one, or several, areas of cosmetic surgery, let your customers know that. Enhance your skills and increase your strengths. It’s better to be highly skilled in certain areas than have middling experience with several. As you talk to your patients about their options, make sure they know what to expect. Cosmetic surgery is not a magic treatment, and it does come with side effects, so temper customer expectations of what you’re able to do.
Get Technology
While it’s possible to run a cosmetic practice without the use of technology, your patients will likely be looking for a more modern method of treatment. New procedures, when offered, will drive patients to you. You’re more likely to get customers if you can offer treatments such as Botox, liposuction, neck lift, fillers, blepharoplasty, and laser skin rejuvenation. If you choose to purchase technology for your practice, you can start by buying used cosmetic lasers and other equipment, saving your practice thousands of dollars.
Market In-House
Marketing is a fundamental in any business, but marketing for you may look a little different. Unlike other businesses, you’ll likely have plenty of walk-in customers wanting to learn more, so in-house marketing is something to focus on. Fill your front office with beautiful scents and peaceful music. Have a small waterfall gurgling in the corner. Display a DVD of what your practice offers, and testimonials, so any visitors who are waiting to chat can get a sense of what you do. Have before and after-photos readily viewable. You can make an excellent first impression, just by your waiting room, if you properly arrange it.
Staff
Last but not least, hire an excellent staff, and encourage them to follow proper behaviors. Cosmetic patients often leave a practice because the staff seemed pushy, dismissive, or unskilled. Make sure no customer has a long waiting time or feels disrespected. Make sure your manner is always polite and affirming, never condescending. If anything, your customers should feel as though they’re visiting a spa. Motivate your staff to do their best with commissions, lunch on fridays, or complimentary services. If all of you work together to create a calm, uplifting environment, you’ll experience great success as a cosmetic practitioner.
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