Hey there, friend! As freelance makeup artists, we get to make magic happen every day, but let's talk about something super important: our safety. Whether you're heading to a bridal gig or glamming up a photoshoot, taking steps to protect yourself is essential. Here are some practical tips to ensure your well-being while you work your makeup magic:
1. Do Your Homework: Before you agree to work with a new client or at a new location, do some research. Check out their online presence, reviews, and reputation. It's like a little background check to make sure you're getting into a safe situation. I always make sure to talk to the client via phone. If a client won't talk on the phone with you, it's a red flag.
2. Share Your Whereabouts: Always let someone know where you're going and when you expect to be back, especially if you're heading to a client's home or a new venue. Share your location with a friend or family member, or use a trusted tracking app on your phone for added peace of mind.
Before every job I let someone know I'm taking off and when I get there. If you don't have a friend you trust, I suggest making other makeup artist friends in Facebook groups. You can be safety besties!
3. Trust Your Instincts: Your gut feeling is a powerful tool. If something feels off or makes you uncomfortable, don't ignore it. Trust your instincts and consider declining the gig or leaving if you're already on-site and feel unsafe. Your safety comes first, no questions asked. It's okay to say no to jobs that make you feel uncomfortable or uneasy.
4. Set Boundaries: Make it clear from the get-go what your professional boundaries are. Whether it's regarding physical contact, time constraints, or acceptable behavior, don't hesitate to assert yourself. Your clients should respect your boundaries, and if they don't, say no to the job.
5. Have a Safety Plan: Prepare for the unexpected by having a safety plan in place. Know the emergency exits, keep emergency contacts handy, and have a backup plan in case of unforeseen circumstances. It's better to be over-prepared than caught off guard.
6. Stay Connected: This one is a big one! Keep your phone charged and within reach at all times, especially when you're working alone and always take a charger. Have emergency numbers saved, including local authorities and trusted contacts. Being able to reach out for help quickly can make all the difference in an emergency.
7. Invest in Training: Consider taking a self-defense class or a safety training course tailored for freelance professionals. Learning how to protect yourself physically and mentally can boost your confidence and equip you with valuable skills to navigate different situations safely.
8. Look for scam emails: If someone reaches out to you wanting to book, it's tempting to immediately say yes. But first you need to be on the lookout for these red flags: spelling mistakes, bad grammar, no professional email, and no phone number. Always discuss business on the phone. If the client refuses, it's a scammer. Also, you should NEVER have to pay a fee to book a job unless it's a trusted agency with a contract.
Remember, your safety is non-negotiable. By taking these precautions and staying vigilant, you can focus on what you do best: making the world a more beautiful place, one brushstroke at a time.
Stay safe out there!
