Why the Business Side of Tattooing Matters

These systems run the business, but you as the owner run the systems—you’re in control of this. When you document your systems and carry them out, think of them as a training tool to give to others someday because you may have the system in your head, but if you don’t have it documented, you’re going to have a hard time training other people. You have to schu those duties and do them in a way that they’re not going to interfere with the other hats that you’re wearing. A well-defined system and how your business operates will also help you and how you’re going to hire other people who want to come work with you someday, if that’s your goal.

You need to have a specific, refined system so well-designed that you can grow without losing any quality or efficiency. Create a client-focused presentation—your people skills matter, they’re so goddamn important. We think that we’re just here delivering tattoos, but we’re delivering an experience, and we have to have that system in place. Spend a little bit of time writing out that process, a roadmap that’ll help you succeed, leading to that client becoming so loyal to you that they can’t wait to tell their friends about you.

Tattoo Business Talk Topics

1. Document Your Systems

A system in your head is only as good as your ability to share it. Derek points out that, “If you don’t have your systems documented, you’ll struggle to train others.” Documenting your processes ensures they’re repeatable and trainable, creating consistency across your studio. Examples include:

How to set up and break down a tattoo station.

Steps for client onboarding and follow-up.

Cleaning protocols to maintain health and safety standards.

2. Delegate Duties Without Losing Focus

For solopreneurs, wearing multiple hats is inevitable, but delegation is key to maintaining efficiency.

“The goal is to keep you in the chair doing what you love most—tattooing.” Derek shares.

Define and schedule duties so they don’t interfere with your primary focus. Whether it’s outsourcing administrative tasks or dividing responsibilities within your team, clear delegation ensures your business runs smoothly.

3. Raise Your Standards

Well-defined systems raise the bar for everyone in your studio, including yourself. Derek explains that when you have clear expectations and systems in place, you attract top talent and avoid working with those who fall short. This applies not only to hiring but also to choosing the right studio spaces or partnerships.

4. Scale Without Sacrificing Quality

Scaling a tattoo shop requires thoughtful planning. Derek emphasizes the importance of creating systems that allow for growth without compromising efficiency or client satisfaction. “You need to have a specific, refined system so well-designed that you can grow without losing any quality or efficiency,” he notes. This is crucial for:

Expanding your team with new artists.

Increasing client volume.

Maintaining the same high standards across multiple locations.

5. Deliver a Client-First Experience

At the heart of every successful tattoo studio is a client-focused approach. Derek highlights the importance of creating systems that prioritize the client experience:

How do you greet clients when they arrive?

What does your onboarding process look like?

How do you follow up with clients post-session?

“We’re not just delivering tattoos—we’re delivering an experience,” Derek explains. Spend time crafting these processes to ensure your clients feel valued, heard, and eager to recommend your studio to others.

Consistency Is Key

The power of systems lies in their consistency. It’s not enough to implement them once; they must become part of your studio’s culture. By documenting, delegating, and refining your processes, you’ll create a solid foundation for long-term success.

“When you have these systems in place, you’re not just running a tattoo studio—you’re building a business that can thrive and grow.”

Final Thoughts

Scaling your tattoo business doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By mastering these five systems, you’ll free yourself to focus on your art while ensuring your studio operates efficiently and consistently. These strategies not only improve your day-to-day operations but also position your business for sustainable growth.