My Freelance Makeup Artist Rules [Part 1]

There's a reason we have rule.  Guidelines that are imperative for a successful journey. No matter what you do, you must have a set of governing acts that you follow. It helps shape the best results for You.

Here are a few that I've adopted...

Rules are random, no special order.

1. Make time for research.  I call this my "office hours work".  Most of the projects that I work on happened because I searched the info, emailed the right people and got a yes and the right time.
2. Network. Everywhere you go.  GET CARDS from everyone! Leave no stone un-turned.  Have your cards handy, as well.  I make it a major practice to introduce myself, being clear that I'm a Makeup Artist.  This happens either by intro or during the conversation.  Networking is about, "what you can do for them." So I always make sure they are aware that I am a Makeup Artist and where I'm located.  A lot of people will refer you, so making sure they know where you are is important.
3. The GET CARDS RULE: I make a note of always getting their card, even if they don't have mine. This is because I can always find them.  They may have my card, but forget me.  If I know the potential referral or client is in Nashville and I am going to Nashville, it becomes my perfect chance to possibly book work!
4. Be nice!  People remember you.  Your name comes up in the conversation over coffee.  They remember your smile.  They remember how nice you were.  They remember how you complimented them on their attire.  They remember that you didn't have an attitude.  They remember...
5. Call & Email!.  Keep yourself on their radar.  I recently wanted to work on a project with a singer.  I wasn't sure how to contact the manager, so I Googled until I was able to get the info.  I was a little apprehensive about it, but I did it anyway.  The manager emailed me back.  They were covered for the project, but HE DIDN'T TELL ME NO.  He actually asked me to forward all of my information and he would keep me in mind for the future.  Now, all I have to do is stay accountable to myself and follow up when they return to the area.
6. Stay ready! I know you've heard the saying, "you ain't got to get ready if you stay ready".  Keep your kit organized, brushes cleaned and resume updated.  I also keep a folder on my phone and laptop with all of my information.  This includes contracts, images and invoices, along with my resume.  If you're out of town for the day and you get an email from a potential client, you still want to be prepared to contact them immediately.  If you have your info save on your phone/email, you can do it. You don't want to miss out on booking a client because you responded too late.
7. Don't compare your resume to another artist for criticism, but for encouragement. Find someone you can look up to and strive to be like them as it relates to artist ability, work ethic and skill.  

Have you set rules for yourself? 

Share a few!

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