Massage therapy.. Pay booth rent? Or work for a big salon??

Question

Is it better to be an independent contractor and pay a booth rent? (how does that work) Or work for a salon and just take a commission?

I figure for someone starting out, just out of school it might be better until you can get an established clientèle right?

Answer 1

As far as I know when places pay you a percentage you are considered to be an employee on commission so you need to be paid as such.  Paying a flat rent is a much cleaner relationship and will motivate you more to get clients rather than just work on commission.  Ask a lawyer to help you establish your status or employee or ind. contractor and be sure to get a contract either way that spells out who is responsible for what.

What is best is what is best for you.   What do you need to make?  How many clients do you need to see?

Answer 2

I have been a LMT for 5 years and have done a little bit of it all.  To start out, I would suggest working on commission for at least a few months.  do not sign a contract that says you will work for commission for more than 6 months.  Once you build your clientel, move to booth rent.  You will pocket more money.  but you need a base so that if you are not working on clients, you don't have to pay. This will also encourage the salon or office to send you more clients.  

When you consistently over a period of a month are paying the salon more per week in commission than booth rent costs, then start a booth rent deal.

good luck,

don't overdo yourself, you WILL burn out!