The best part of living the dream of owning your own beauty business is getting paid for doing what you love. If you’re just starting out, you’ve probably been thinking more about the idea of getting paid rather than the logistics behind it. And if you’ve been running a beauty business for a while, you might already have your own system in place – although we hate to break it to you, a filing cabinet full of receipts and a drawer of petty cash doesn’t quite cut it in today's digital-first world.
When you start really thinking about what goes on behind the scenes of getting paid, you’ll soon discover you need a payment processing solution that keeps up with the times and knows how to work for you, a beauty and wellness professional.
Here’s what to look for in a system that won’t break the bank while you’re trying to cash in, and questions you should ask when considering any payment processing provider.
Not all payment processing solutions are created equal. Though they might all get the basic job done (transferring money from your client’s wallet to your bank account) that’s not always enough. As a service professional, you need a system that does all that, while also helping you accept all forms of payment quickly, earn bigger tips, and highlight your best reviews. Bonus points if your payment processing solution is specifically engineered to meet the specific needs of working in the beauty industry.
Questions to ask when considering a POS:
In addition to accepting all major payment types, GlossGenius gives you total control of your payment processing power. Collect more gratuities, allow clients to split payment across multiple payment methods, and send digital receipts for total ease and convenience for you and your clients.
Part of the allure of being your own boss is having complete control over your paycheck. Most merchant services will make your funds available in 24-48 hours (during business days), but many will upcharge you for that. You want to make sure you’re not waiting for days or putting up extra fees to get paid for a service you’ve already completed.
Questions to ask:
GlossGenius transfers your money ASAP – including Instant Payouts that hit within 30 minutes, and free same-business-day transfers so you receive your money in your account on the next business day.
Just because we’re talking the business end of the client experience, doesn’t mean it shouldn't be on-brand. In addition to meeting your professional needs and getting you paid in a timely manner, it also helps if your POS system looks good. Forget boring black or white payment processing hardware – because let's be honest, they are entirely forgettable. Instead, get a stunning card reader that represents your brand, sparks conversations, and most importantly, that clients will remember.
Of course, beauty is beyond skin deep, and a truly impressive payment solution should be as easy for you and your clients to navigate as it is on the eyes.
Questions to ask:
When it comes to a POS system, you don't just have to worry about client experience – your employees' experience matters too. Make sure your payment processing solution gives your team flexible and secure payout options, empowering your booth renters with their own financial independence.
Questions to ask:
You work hard to earn every penny and your POS system should be working just as hard to keep your earnings safe. Security is one of the most important aspects of a payment processing solution for you and your clients.
You need to know your checkout process is armed with layers of protection against fraudulent activity, and that your clients can rest assured their credit card info is safe, too.
Questions to ask:
A basic POS system will get you paid, but the best salon payment processing solution will offer even more bang for your buck with additional features that make your beauty and wellness business easier to manage and grow!
More questions to ask:
GlossGenius provides a powerful platform with built-in payment processing and smart, customizable features that are seamlessly integrated and designed so you can manage your business using a single, secure app – for ultimate peace of mind.
Every payment platform, processing system, or POS is going to cost you something. It takes money to make money. The question is: Will it be worth it? Beyond the initial or ongoing cost of POS hardware, be on the lookout for complex payment processing fees, sneaky add-ons, or inflated rates. In other words, always read the fine print!
Questions to ask:
From giving you the push you need to raise your prices, to making sure you’re getting paid on time, part of our mission at GlossGenius is always empowering you to secure the bag.
If you’re considering investing in a payment processing solution, make sure to ask the questions above so you know you're not being overcharged or shortchanged. And remember, you may think it's a small amount now, but fees add up week after week and month after month, and ultimately impact what you make this year and beyond.
With GlossGenius, you always know what you're paying – a simple subscription price each month and one low, flat rate for every transaction – and get a powerful booking, scheduling, and client management solution tailor-made for beauty and wellness pros.
Sign up for your 14-day free trial and see for yourself!
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