If your nail art Pinterest board is overflowing, or you love the sound of a nail file on a quiet afternoon, you might’ve wondered: “Should I become a manicurist?” Manicuring is more than painting pretty nails—it’s about precision, creativity, and helping people feel pampered.
Answer the 10 questions below with “Yes” or “No,” keep track of your points, and see where you land. Let’s have some fun with it!
1. Do you love doing your own nails—or your friends’ nails—for fun?
If you’ve ever done a full gel set in your bedroom, this one’s a “yes.”
2. Are you into colors, design, and expressing creativity through art?
Nail art is one of the most creative corners of the beauty industry.
3. Do you enjoy working with your hands on detailed tasks?
Precision is key when you’re shaping, painting, or doing nail extensions.
4. Are you patient and able to focus for long periods of time?
Some sets can take hours—especially if you’re going full glam.
5. Do you like chatting with people while working one-on-one?
Being friendly, upbeat, and a good listener is a huge plus.
6. Are you interested in hygiene, sanitation, and safety in beauty work?
Manicuring is a hands-on career—cleanliness isn’t optional.
7. Are you willing to learn about nail health, techniques, and tools?
It’s not all polish—you’ll learn about nail structure, diseases, and client care.
8. Do you keep up with nail trends, products, or influencer content?
Chrome, BIAB, 3D nail charms—if you know, you know.
9. Are you comfortable working flexible hours or weekends?
Client schedules often fall outside 9–5.
10. Do you want a career that blends art, people skills, and beauty?
If that sounds exciting instead of exhausting, you’re on the right track.
Give yourself 1 point for every “Yes.”
Add up your score out of 10.
8–10 Points: Nail tech in the making!
You’ve got the creativity, passion, and patience it takes to thrive in the world of manicuring. Look into nail tech programs—you might be closer to your dream career than you think.
5–7 Points: It could be a good fit!
You have a real interest. Try doing a few practice sets, shadow a pro, or explore certification programs to get a better feel for the work.
0–4 Points: Maybe not your ideal career.
And that’s okay! There are tons of beauty and creative jobs out there—this just might not be your thing (yet).
Being a manicurist is an awesome career for people who love art, self-expression, and making clients feel amazing. Whether you’re into minimal manis or bold nail art, the beauty industry is full of opportunity.