Top reasons to enter nail competitions & expert tips for success

Esteemed beauty business expert & CEO of PHAB Service Stars, Nergish Wadia-Austin, shares advice for budding nail competitors…

The nail industry is vibrant, with competitions like the Scratch Stars Awards and Nailympia showcasing the best in creativity and artistry. Prestigious events like these are essential for any nail technician wishing to elevate their craft, gain recognition and stay ahead in the industry. Here’s a guide to help you prepare, compete and learn from nail competitions.

Five tips for competing:

1. Prepare and plan.

Every competition has different rules, so do your research to understand what is required. Visit the contest’s official website, read up on past winners and examine their work. Dedicate time to practicing the skills and techniques required, and consider taking advanced courses to refine your abilities. Plan competition designs well in advance, by sketching ideas, experimenting with materials and seeking feedback from peers.

2. Focus on quality and precision.

Judges scrutinise all aspects of your work, from cuticle care to application, so ensure each nail is flawless. Awaken your creative beast and stand out by incorporating innovative techniques. These could involve unique textures, patterns or the use of unconventional materials.

3. Practice time management.

Nail competitions often have strict time constraints. Practice completing your designs within these limits, to ensure you can deliver high-quality work under pressure. Remember, less can often be more. Make sure your competition setup is efficient, with tools and materials organised to minimise time spent searching for items. Purchase back-up items, in case of an incident.

 4. Stay calm and confident.

Develop a strategy to stay calm and focused. Techniques like deep breathing or visualisation can help manage stress. Confidence will reflect in your work and make a positive impression on judges, so believe in your skills and creativity.

5. Learn from feedback.

Pay close attention to judges’ feedback. Don’t take things personally; this constructive criticism is invaluable for identifying areas of improvement. Also discuss your work with colleagues and industry professionals. Their insights can provide different perspectives and aid your growth.

The benefits of entering nail competitions:

• Skill enhancement. Competitions push you to hone your skills and innovate, leading to significant professional growth. The rigorous preparation and high standards demanded by these events ensure you continually improve.
• Industry recognition. Participating in and winning competitions enhances your reputation. It opens doors to new opportunities, such as collaborations, teaching roles and new clientele.
• Networking opportunities. Competitions allow you to connect with fellow industry professionals, educators and potential mentors. Networking can lead to collaborations and further career advancement.
• Marketing and exposure. Success in competitions provides excellent content for marketing. Showcase your achievements on social media, your website and in the nail space to attract new clients.
• Personal satisfaction. The sense of accomplishment from competing and achieving recognition is immensely rewarding. It boosts your confidence and fuels your passion for the craft.

Nail competitions like the Scratch Stars Awards and Nailympia are more than just contests; they are platforms for growth, learning and professional advancement. The benefits make participation a valuable investment in your career. So gear up, get creative and let your artistry shine. I wish you all the best on your competition journeys!