A lot of mobile hairdressers will probably have a lot of there regular clients. Some may be through recommendation, but its always a worry when you are going to a booking that has been made through advertisement.
First things first – it’s always a good idea to check your client’s address on Google street view before you attend the appointment. Get to know the area, and where to park, etc.
Check your new client out on social media before you arrive to ensure they are genuine.
How To Stay Safe As A Mobile Hairdresser In 9 Steps
1. Always Have Breakdown Cover
It does not matter what kind of car you drive, there is a possibility that it will break down, and you need to be prepared for when it does.
I am not just talking about a mechanical failure either, there is also a possibility that a tire will burst, puncture, or run flat.
Arrange breakdown cover, and keep all a note of the number to call in your glove compartment.
Breaking down on a busy road can leave you completely exposed, especially with the amount of traffic that will be using the road.
If you break down on a quiet road, you will also be exposed to dangers.
Whenever you break down, always have a plan for calling help or fixing the problem yourself so you can reduce the danger and remain safe.
2. Learn How To Change A Tire
Once you have organized breakdown cover for your car, the next step (and you might not like this) is to learn how to change a tire! I am not talking about a 7 second ‘F1 Style’ tire change. All you need to do is learn how to do it yourself.
Changing a tire is easy when you know how to do it, trust me!
3. Set Up Location Sharing With Loved Ones
I have a location-sharing app on my phone which allows me to keep my loved ones updated. If I am having problems with the car then my loved ones already know where I am and can help if needed.
Not only can a location-sharing app helps you stay safe as a mobile hairdresser, but you can also use it to let a loved one know how far you are away from home so they can ensure your food is ready for when you get in!
4. Always Carry A Spare Phone Charger
Because social media takes up a lot of battery power, right?
Being a mobile hairdresser means showing off your work. This can be to colleagues, friends, or potential clients. Using the camera on your phone is a well-known battery drainer!
Keep a spare phone charger with you at all times. When you step into your car, put your phone on charge.
5. Keep An Emergency Snack/Drink
If you break down or get stuck in traffic, it is good to have an emergency snack or drink available in the car.
Sometimes (especially if you are in a rough area) you might not feel safe getting out of your can and going into a shop. If you have supplies in the car, then you don’t have to!
6. Keep You Fuel Levels High
Ok, I am guilty of this! Running your fuel down to ‘fumes’. C’mon, I know you have done this too!
Think about running out of fuel at 9 pm on a quiet road. How dangerous can that be?
When your fuel gets below 1/4 of a tank mark, stop in the next fuel station. Simple.
7. Maintain Your Car
I know it is expensive, but your car is your chariot! You roll up to client’s houses like royalty. You don’t want to be pushed up to it like a pauper!
Always be aware of when your service is due and make sure it is booked in early.
A car that is not serviced is more likely to break down and potentially leave you in danger.
8. Do Not Use Your Phone While Driving
Goes without saying, right? No message, social media interaction, or song is worth more than your life, or anyone’s life that you might ruin by taking your eyes off the road to look at your phone!
Just don’t do it. Pullover safely and switch your engine off if you need to check your phone.
9. Be Wary About Using Your Phone While Parked
Ok, above I said ‘pullover safely’. That means, do not pullover in a dodgy area and show off your brand new, top of the range, no expense spared phone.
I’ve been in a situation where I have been happily texting a friend only too look up and see someone staring into the car at my phone, and a few more of them on bikes circling around the car. I threw the phone behind me, started the engine and drove away. Luckily, I got away with that. If I had waited another few seconds, I think my window would have been smashed.
Conclusion
Your clients think you are awesome, and your family loves you! For these reasons, it is vital that you stay safe as a mobile hairdresser.
Do the 9 things on this page to stay safe as a mobile hairdresser or a mobile beautician in general.
But… if you only remember one of them. Remember not to use your phone whilst driving.
Good luck!