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Freelance Focus with Imogen Thomas
Today we’re talking to Imogen Thomas, here Imogen shares what she loves about being freelance. Find Imogen on Instagram @imogenthomashair.
Capital: When did you first realise you wanted to go freelance?
Imogen: It was when I was still in training, working alongside the lovely @hairdesignbyzoe. She was already freelancing at the time, and I could see how much she loved it; she had so much flexibility and could work around her own lifestyle without it ever feeling stressed.
It honestly looked like the dream! Seeing how passionate she was and how in control she was of her time and creativity really stuck with me, and that’s when I thought, that’s the kind of career I want too. Now I’m a salon co-owner at 19 in partnership with my mum, Amanda, and we are living our dream!
Capital: What’s the best thing about being freelance?
Imogen: Working around my own schedule; it allows me to focus on the things I love. I get to choose the kind of clients I want to attract and the work I enjoy doing most. I’ve always wanted to specialise in colour – especially blondes – and extensions, so freelancing has let me do exactly that. Lately, I’ve also started getting into hair-ups, which has been such a fun new challenge!
Capital: What’s the most challenging part of being freelance?
Imogen: Learning not to overwork yourself just to please everyone. It’s so easy to say ‘yes’ to everything and end up totally burnt out.
You can also find yourself doubting whether you’re doing enough or doing it right, which can be exhausting. Finding that balance and knowing when to set boundaries is such an important skill. I’m still learning, but it makes a huge difference when you start putting yourself first sometimes.
Capital: How do you stay up to date with the hair community?
Imogen: I’m always learning, whether that’s through constant training, watching what’s trending on Instagram, or just picking up tips from other stylists. I get so much inspo from seeing what others are creating! One of the things I love most about the hair community is how supportive it is. I’ll often find myself chatting in DMs with other stylists, asking about techniques or sharing what’s worked for me. It’s such a nice way to keep growing and stay connected.
Capital: Share your best confidence building tip?
Imogen: One of the best confidence-building tips I’ve learned is to surround yourself with supportive stylists. The hair community can be such a positive space when we lift each other up. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, share your wins, big or small, and keep learning. The more you put yourself out there and connect with others, the more your confidence grows!
Big shout out to a few of my fellow stylists @scott_thair @neelamchristinacolourist @amandameyrickhair @hairdesignbyzoe @e.lengths @vivienneblakehair I could literally go on forever!
Capital: What’s the most valuable piece of advice you would offer to someone who wants to go freelance but feels nervous or unsure?
Imogen: Just go for it. I started off with no clients, literally none. My first few were complete strangers who found me through local Facebook groups. Your friends won’t always be your first clients, and that’s okay!
I just kept showing up, sharing my work everywhere I could, especially in local community pages. It took consistency and a bit of patience, but now I’m booked up weeks in advance. It’s scary at first, but if you believe in your work and keep putting yourself out there, it really does pay off. You’ve got this!
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Freelance Focus
Freelance Focus, is a one stop resource for anyone working as a freelancer or thinking of going freelance in the hair & beauty industry, which includes a FREE downloadable guide filled with advice, useful insights, experiences and tips (from experienced freelancers) to help you understand the steps needed to make the right choices for you.
