Where to Work as a Tarot Reader

Starting out is actually easy — it’s the continuation that’s the key. This is because we rely heavily on our venues and referrals at the beginning. Do ‘good work’ and you’ll be settled into a full-time position before you know it.

But where to work?? Are you ready to read for a perfect stranger?

Readings in Your Home

Should we talk safety here, just a little? Wouldn’t it be lovely if we didn’t need to? But it’s the responsible thing to do.

I don’t think I need to spell out the risk of setting up readings at home, advertising in the local paper, and working alone. Be sensible. Once you’ve established your client base, you’ll feel more settled about working from home — if that’s what you want to do. Familiar faces or referrals are the ideal client if they’re coming into your home.

Once you’re established, you’ll want a separate room to create your perfect reading space: a table with two chairs, an attractive side unit for your supplies, a few pictures on the wall, perhaps a healthy plant, a cosy chair for meditation, a crystal or two — and of course, your cards.

Later on, you could move onto distance readings via the internet, in which case you’ll only need the internet and a reliable connection. I don’t advocate online readings for beginners because there’s no greater experience than sitting in front of a person.

Psychic Fairs (Mind, Body & Spirit Events)

Local fairs here in the UK tend to begin in spring and finish at the end of autumn. You’ll get some that don’t, but if you expect to work them seasonally, you won’t be disappointed.

How do you find them? If they’re local, there’s a good chance you already know where they’re held and who hosts them. If so, contact the event organiser and ask to join a waiting list or fill a cancellation spot on the next one available. It takes time and patience to join the crew, but once you’re in, you usually get first refusal at the next event — unless their regular reader returns.

Persevere and search online for others nearby. Facebook is a good source for these types of events. Once you’ve been accepted, refer back to the checklist HERE for supplies.

Psychic Telephone Lines

I do get asked about these a lot, but I’m afraid I’m not a fan. This is because I prefer to be in charge — control freak and all that! I never wanted to get paid commission in this way.

To be honest, my exposure is limited when it comes to this kind of business, so it’s unfair for me to comment or advise too much. If you choose to do this, I understand that someone calls to test your ability, and you’ll be paid based on the duration of the call — either by percentage or flat rate. Business models will vary.

Perhaps a better alternative is to offer private readings by phone yourself, with payment in advance to secure the call. If I were going to work by phone, that’s probably the route I’d take.

Email Readings

I was surprised to discover that a friend of mine bought a reading online through Etsy (who told her exactly the same as me, by the way — sniff, sniff! Only kidding, I’m more than happy for a bit of back-up).

The tarot reader emailed her a video link to a private recording she’d made via YouTube. This is pure genius. If I were starting out now, I would absolutely add this as an income stream.

My cats would have loved it — and so would the snoring dog. I believe it’s relatively simple to set up a shop on Etsy or even your own website and advertise readings. Video yourself reading the cards in response to the question, upload to YouTube as an ‘unlisted’ link, and send it to the paying customer. Love it. I genuinely think it’s a fantastic avenue.

Crystal Shops and New Age Stores

If you’re fortunate enough to secure this kind of regular spot, I recommend that you cherish it.

The store owner will either offer a room rate — where you take all the financial risk and bring your clients — or they’ll hire you for the day, take a percentage of earnings, and do the hard work. Rates vary per store.

I recommend the first option, as it’s usually the better revenue driver because you won’t have to share the earnings from your regular clients. Plus, you’re in control of your advertising. A nice little Facebook ad or local leaflet drop (if allowed) is a great way to gain clients. Put your telephone number on the ad for bookings, or use an online booking system.

House Parties

Once your name gets out there as a good reader, you’ll be asked if you do house parties. I’d advise you to say yes — they’re great fun, although a tad exhausting.

I suggest limiting the numbers to four people and running half-hour slots between 7pm and 9pm. It’s usual to give a reduced rate per reading for this type of booking. It’s also a good idea to leave the diary free the next day to restore your energy.

Whichever avenue you decide to focus your energy on, I wish you the best of success. There simply aren’t enough of us out there. We should never underestimate the value we provide in service to others.