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salary vs commission

I have worked on my own for @20 years now. I recently relocated, and am considering work in a salon. They offered 40-50% commission on each massage I performed or a flat dollar amount per hour (salary) whether I had a client or not. They asked me what I wanted per hour. I don't know what the going rate is for salon/spa work these days, can anyone help me out? They charge $70 - $90/hour and there is no requirement that I do laundry/phone calls etc. I am not sure which is the better option, so any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

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Permalink Reply by Dawn Keown on January 21, 2016 at 9:10pm

I would work a deal that is a little of both. Take an hourly salary up to a set amount that changes to commission after. Look at the minimum amount of money per week/pay period that you need and divide that between the hours you are going to be available and that should get you an hourly rate. After that you can decide where the change point to commission will be.

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Permalink Reply by Dawn Keown on January 21, 2016 at 9:23pm

Sorry a bit of tech problems there. I had more to say. The going rate for salon/spa work varies with your area. Standard for Indiana is a huge wide range. The low end is around $15 an hour (franchise spa) or about 40%. It also depends if you are a contractor (you pay your own taxes--roughly 38% of your earnings) or an employee (they pay your taxes). Find out also what they will provide of supplies, laundry, advertising, referals and so on. If you do go with the hourly make sure you get it in writing that no other duties beyond massages and maintaining the massage space is required. Some places will tell you that and before you know it you are the general drudge whenever they need something. I hope this helped and I hope others will add in their experience and suggestions. GOOD LUCK!