If you’ve been thinking about becoming a makeup artist, you may have asked yourself if you have what it takes.
But do you have what it DOESN’T take to become a makeup artist?
If any of the following situations applies to you, you should definitely not pursue a career in makeup artistry.
You don’t like meeting new people
You cringe at the thought of meeting new people and having to put yourself out there. Networking is a total drag and besides, you already have enough friends! You’d rather just fade into the background and go about your day undisturbed.
Makeup artists should be excited about meeting new people. You never know who you may come across that could lead to an important industry connection, a successful business partner, or a future client! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and create genuine relationships that can help you further your career.
You’re not approachable
You’re not very friendly or open-minded. You don’t like hearing new ideas and you don’t take criticism very well. You’re the professional and you know it all, so your clients’ opinions don’t matter.
Makeup artists have a responsibility to deliver what their clients want. If you’re not approachable and easy to talk to, then your client will shy away from letting you know if something doesn’t quite look how they had envisioned. This will likely lead to poor reviews on your professional sites for the world to see, and a guarantee you won’t be hearing from them again for some repeat business.
You hate small talk
Small talk is SO annoying and you’re not very good at it. You’d rather just sit in silence. You view clients as clients, and only that. No need to stay connected, follow each other on social media, or learn more about them on a personal level. You’re there for one job and one job only. You just want to apply their makeup and leave it at that.
Interacting with clients and creating a comfortable environment is an essential skill for makeup artists to have. While small talk like “it’s nice weather we’re having today” will not get you through an entire makeup application, it’s a gateway to more meaningful conversations. Connecting with your client is not only important for a successful visit, but also important to your business. If your client has a good time, they’ll come back to you the next time they need their makeup done and will be sure to tell their friends what a pleasant experience they had.
You’re disorganized
Who needs to be organized, anyway? So what if your makeup products are randomly scattered all over the place, or your business documents are in complete disarray? You know where everything is and that’s all that matters. Or at least you’re pretty sure where everything is. Now to find that lipstick you swear you just saw a minute ago…
As a makeup artist, first impressions are key! If your professional space is untidy and disorganized, your clients may take it as an indication of how your skills are too. Plus, if you’re in the middle of an application and can’t find a product you need, you could be wasting precious time while your client uncomfortably waits for you and silently hopes they won’t be running late for their important event.
You hate to clean
Hygiene is just not your thing. Cleaning your brushes every night and sanitizing your kit? What a waste of time! You’d rather watch a couple episodes on Netflix before bed and call it a day.
This is the ultimate no-no for makeup artists! Clients will put their trust in you that you are using safe and sanitary products and tools. If you cringed at that last paragraph, you’re one step closer to confirming that professional makeup artistry is your calling. Be sure to brush up on some makeup hygiene practices here!
You’re not flexible
You’re not interested in having early morning or late night appointments, and definitely don’t want to work on the weekend. You have better things to do at those times, like sleeping or partying with your friends.
Makeup artists need to flexible and prepared to work some odd hours. We’re not saying that you will never be able to sleep in ever again or won’t ever get a weekend off, we’re just making sure you’re aware you may have to make some sacrifices. Be prepared and willing to book early morning bridal party appointments or weekend photoshoot sessions. It’s all about finding a balance that works well for you.
You don’t like to have fun
If you’re a total Debbie Downer or Grumpy Gus, you should NOT become a makeup artist. Simple as that!
Makeup is fun, interacting with new and interesting people is fun, experimenting with new looks and products on yourself and on friends is FUN. And one day, you might actually take great pleasure in cleaning your makeup brushes!
Didn’t relate to any points on this list? Thank goodness! You probably have what it takes to become a makeup artist. 🙂
This article was really helpful. I appreciate it
Thanks so much for the feedback, Chibuzo, we’re really happy to hear that you found this information useful! 🙂