Tips vs Hourly: Which Compensation Model Pays More?

Comprehensive comparison of compensation models in the beauty industry.

## The Three Main Models

### 1. Commission + Tips (Most Common)
**Pros:**
- Unlimited earning potential
- Rewarded for productivity
- Build your own clientele
- Average: $45,000-$75,000/year

**Cons:**
- Income varies week to week
- Harder to prove income
- No guaranteed minimum (usually)

### 2. Hourly + Tips
**Pros:**
- Predictable base income
- Easier income verification
- Guaranteed minimum wage
- Average: $35,000-$55,000/year

**Cons:**
- Lower earning ceiling
- Less incentive for productivity

### 3. Salary + Tips (Rare)
**Pros:**
- Most stable income
- Often includes benefits
- Easiest to verify
- Average: $40,000-$60,000/year

**Cons:**
- Least flexibility
- Lower top-end earnings

## The KwickStudio Solution

**No matter your compensation model, KwickStudio provides:**

1. **Complete Transparency**
- Every service tracked
- All tips recorded (cash + card)
- Commission calculated automatically

2. **Income Verification**
- Export reports for any time period
- Accepted by major lenders
- Include base + commission + tips

3. **Fair Distribution**
- Rotation system prevents favoritism
- Equal opportunity regardless of pay structure

## Which Model Pays Best?

**For Top Performers:** Commission + Tips ($60,000-$100,000+)
**For Stability Seekers:** Hourly + Tips ($40,000-$60,000)
**For Benefits:** Salary + Tips ($45,000-$65,000)

## Real Numbers from KwickStudio Users

Based on 10,000+ beauty professionals:

- **Commission stylists** average 23% higher annual income
- **Hourly workers** have 40% less income variance
- **Salon owners** using fair rotation see 18% staff retention improvement

[Full analysis with case studies and decision framework...]