Do You Have What It Takes? The Reality of Hairdresser Life

Joan Crawford said, “I think the most important thing a woman can have next to talent, of course, is her hairdresser.”

Her statement may have been hyperbole, but the sentiment does have a ring of truth to it.

When women find a good hairdresser, we cling to them like Rose clung to that piece of wood.

No, really. There are few things worse than a bad haircut.

But, what about the other side of the equation? Do your hairdressers love their careers?

Being a hairdresser is a fun, fast-paced career.

You have the opportunity to be creative every day, but also to make others feel wonderful about themselves. As you work one-on-one with another human being, you can make them feel beautiful. In a world that’s often filled with negativity, that in and of itself makes a hair stylist a superhero.

If you have always loved to do hair and play around with fun styles, then this profession may be for you.

Learn what it takes to be a successful stylist and begin steps toward your ideal career today.

How to Get Started as a Hairdresser

Becoming a hairdresser begins with learning the technical skills necessary to do every part of this job.

Your training will include everything from learning how to cut and color hair to learning about sanitary practices and hair diseases.

Here's what you need to do:

Attend a state-licensed cosmetology program

In the United States, a hair stylist must attend a program that is licensed by the state in which you plan to work. There are many options available for an aspiring hairdresser.

And you know what's even better?

Many states offer vocational programs in high school in which you can become a licensed cosmetologist. In this way, you will complete your necessary cosmetology education before you even graduate from high school.

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But for those who want to pursue cosmetology after high school, don’t worry -- many schools and programs train cosmetologists. You may even wish to pursue a cosmetology associate degree at your local community college.

These programs run anywhere from six months to two years and will provide you with all the necessary training to begin your career as a hairdresser.

Total tuition costs average between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on where you choose to study and practice cosmetology.

Keep in mind:

The tuition costs do not include books and other extra expenses, like room and board.

Ready to enroll today?

Search for a program on the American Association of Cosmetology Schools’ website. That will ensure that you attend a state-approved program so you can take steps toward obtaining licensure.

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Things you’ll study in your program

While the exact courses you take may vary depending on your specific cosmetology program, there are certain things that every aspiring hairdresser can expect to learn.

Many programs offer full training on everything cosmetology related, including hair styling, nail care, skin care, and makeup application.

For those looking to study things specific to hair styling, you will explore things like:

Navigating the licensure process

When you have completed your state-licensed program, hairdressers need to get a state-issued license. Requirements are different depending on the state you want to practice in.

One other thing...

You will need to pass a written exam. Some states also require a practical exam where you must demonstrate your skills.

But with the right training, you will be ready!

You will also need a certain number of hours practicing in a salon before you receive your license. The ​hours required​ vary state-by-state.

Get a job

Once you have your license, the sky is the limit. Put your skills to good use and find the perfect salon job for you.

Where to begin?

Some hairdressers may already have a job if they chose to work in a salon while still in school. Many salons allow aspiring hairdressers to apprentice and work as shampooers, as you do not need a license to serve in that role.

If you don’t have a job lined up, get your professional portfolio in order and put your best foot forward during the job search.

But keep this in mind:

Of course, salon owners want hairdressers to have the ability to cut and style hair, but they might also be looking for a lot more. Be sure that you are friendly and motivated, demonstrate that you can be a team player, and show potential employers that you have what it takes to build great relationships with your clients.

Watch the video below for more:

Continue your education

Even after you have a job, it is essential to continue your training as a hairdresser. If you want to keep your clients truly happy, it is vital to learn all the latest trends so you can provide excellent service.

Where can you find classes that will help you stay up-to-date?

It's pretty simple:

We live in an age when education has never been more accessible. Between online classes, virtual classrooms, social media, and professional forums online, the sky is the limit.

For the hairdresser who is looking to make the most of these opportunities, here are a few excellent resources for continuing education:

1. Check out Modern Salon. They offer a free Education Calendar that is full of all the upcoming events in the beauty industry. You can search by both location and category to find exactly what you’re looking for.
2. Visit your local product supply store. Nearly all of them offer education classes, particularly on all the latest and greatest products. Stores like Cosmo Prof, Salon Centric, and State Beauty Supply are ideal for the product-specific education you’ve been looking for.
3. Travel to a tradeshow. Here, you will have plenty of opportunities for both exhibitor and independent education opportunities as well as hands-on workshops and even business classes. Check out America’s Beauty Show and International Beauty Show to see what the biggest tradeshows have to offer.
4. Take a peek at Associated Hair Professional’s Education and Events Calendar. They allow any educator to share details to their event so you can see all the best that educators have to offer.

A Day in the Life of a Hairdresser

Being a hairdresser involves so much more than simply cutting and styling hair. They have many responsibilities that include many different tasks. A typical hairstylist has to wear many hats.

Imagine this...

In just one day, hairdressers may have to:

Hairstylists can be incredibly busy do many things to keep the salon running smoothly and show their clients what an important priority they are.

Check out the video below to see just how busy they are:

Specialized knowledge

Part of a hairdresser’s responsibility is to make sure they keep tabs on all of the latest educational trends. They must know how chemicals interact so that they can properly treat each client’s hair.

Why is this so important?

Keeping up to date on this specialized knowledge will ensure that every client receives quality, professional services. This, in turn, will help you to build your client base.

Here's the catch:

Knowing your stuff is only half the battle. A successful hairdresser must be more than just knowledgeable. They must be able to work under pressure, keeping track of time.

They must possess excellent interpersonal skills. Much of working in a salon is interacting with your clients, your coworkers, and your boss. Those who can quickly build and maintain relationships will see great results.

Ultimately, the best hairdresser will earn the trust of their clients by listening to their needs and desires and serving them to the best of their ability.

This can be a complex balancing act, but one that all of the best hairdressers are capable of.

Unique Things to Expect When You’re a Hairdresser

There are many amazing things about being a hairdresser. But it’s not all glamor in the beauty industry, especially when you are on the standing side of the spinning chair.

You’ll be working WHEN?

The world of cosmetology means working long days, and frequently nights. It’s just the nature of the job.

Why do I say this?

People choose to get their hair done when they aren’t working, which means that you will be. Especially, if you travel to your clients. Expect to be busy in early mornings, nights, and weekends.

Don’t be surprised if you’re working early on a Saturday and also until 10 p.m. on a weeknight.

So, grab a large cup of coffee and be prepared to put in some long hours.

The upside of this unique work schedule is that the established hairdresser with decent clientele may have the luxury to schedule her appointments around what is best for her own schedule.

Have a weekend getaway planned? No need to talk to the boss about taking time off. Just schedule your clients accordingly.

Being a stylist offers you as much career flexibility as you need.

The bottom line?

For a hairdresser with children, or for those who have a spouse that works odd hours, the life of a hairdresser may be ideal.

It’s a whole body effort

You may not consider hairstyling to be a physically exhausting career. But being on your feet all day and repeating the similar motions that come with cutting, coloring, and styling hair may leave you with some aches and pains.

Not to mention how standing all day can give you some pretty tired feet. To add insult to injury, many stylists prefer (and some are even required!) to wear heels and other uncomfortable footwear.

To try to combat some of the aches and pains that come with being on your feet all day.

So be sure to: exercise regularly, wear supportive footwear when you can, and rest.

Rest.

And more rest.

Whenever you get the chance!

Things can get hairy

If you’ve ever gotten a haircut, then you know that hair can end up in some pretty weird places.

Here's the kicker:

This predicament doesn’t just happen to the client. As a hairdresser, you will often find yourself covered in the hair of the clients you’ve been working on all day.

Don’t be surprised if you find hair in:

Your bra, your socks, your purse, and even your food!

But being covered in hair may not even be the worst part. You may have clients with dandruff or even with lice.

The bottom line?

Arm yourself with a thick skin and be prepared to get more up close and personal with hair than you ever thought possible.

Up close and personal

Hair is not the only thing with which you’ll be getting up close and personal. If you’re someone who treasures their personal space, you may want to think twice about your life as a hairdresser.

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Aside from touching people’s heads, necks, and shoulders, you’ll have to take on the awkward accidental bumps and touches that come with being up close with someone.

Not to mention...

When you’re in someone’s personal space, you also get up close and personal with their hygiene. You’ll be on the receiving end of every dandruff flake and whiff of bad breath.

So, put out a dish of mints and hope for the best!

Secrets to Success

Anyone with a license can be a hairdresser, but only those who go above and beyond will find success.

The truth of the matter?

Being an excellent hairdresser goes far beyond the technical skills and knowledge that come with your cosmetology training. The most successful hairstylist learns to adapt in a variety of ways.

Be an active listener

The best hairdresser understands that while you may know what looks best for a client, that may not always be what they want. Listening to their wants, needs, and concerns will help ensure they are happy with the end result.

The point is:

You want your clients to be satisfied, not just with their hairstyle but also with the way they felt treated and appreciated by you.

Hone your interpersonal skills

Customer satisfaction comes, not only from an excellent haircut but also from your ability to play psychologist and priest to your chattiest clients.

Ever wondered why?

Something about that salon chair makes people feel the freedom to share the intimate details of their lives.

Prepare for some critical thinking

There will be many clients who come in with a vague idea of what they want and even some with no idea at all. It is your responsibility to assess their hair, and choose the products, treatments, and styles that will work best for them.

Did I mention you’ll need to do all this while they are sitting and staring at you, waiting to begin?

You’ll need strong critical thinking skills that allow you to think on your feet and come up with the best course of action for each individual.

Manage your time well

One of the essential skills every successful hairdresser has is time management. Time is, quite literally, money in the world of hairstyling.

Many hairdressers make commission, so you will want to learn to be both excellent and efficient at your job so you can see as many clients as possible.

Not only that, but you don’t want to keep clients waiting. So, make sure you are realistic when you schedule clients.

My point is this...

That all-over highlighting job is going to take quite a bit more time than old Mr. Jenkin’s weekly trim.

And when you manage your time well, you will see it pay off. Literally.

Look at the video below:

Know your stuff

To start, be sure that you have a solid foundation in the basics. With strong technical skills and an understanding of the business of the beauty industry, you’ll be able to build your client base and focus on growing your personal brand.

The bottom line?

Only stylists who know their stuff and can deliver quality results will see a payoff in the long-term.

Be a lifelong learner

You know you need to pursue continued education after receiving your cosmetology license.

But you know the truth?

The most successful cosmetologists commit to continuing their education in every aspect of their lives. Both inside the classroom and out.

Keep an eye out for everyday opportunities to grow as a stylist and find inspiration in the world around you.

Have a good attitude

Personality is part of the package when it comes to being a great stylist. You will attract what you project.

The good news?

A great attitude and high energy combined with your skill as a hairdresser will bring in all the best, most dynamic clients. Draw people in with your warmth, creativity, and passion, and you’ll have no trouble filling your schedule and keeping clients coming back.

Master the world of social media

Social media is one of the most powerful tools the modern day hairdresser can access.

Think about it.

You can market your services by displaying your work. And all for free.

It's simple:

Take before and after shots of your clients and post them to media outlets like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. In this way, you’ll have the freedom to market yourself just the way you want to portray yourself.

Also, post any tricks you may do.

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes

As a hairdresser, you will have days when your vision for your client does not go as planned.

But look at it this way.

When a client’s hair ends up shorter, longer, or lighter than you anticipated, you have the opportunity to figure out why and grow as a stylist through the experience.

The truth is...

Inexperience can either hold you back or allow you to improve as a hairdresser and hone your talent.

Flexibility is key

One easy way to stand out from the crowd as a stylist is your personal flexibility. Work with your clients’ schedules, even if that means sacrificing your own free time.

Why is that?

When you are willing to come in extra early or stay later than planned your clients will notice and appreciate your readiness to work with them. It will set you apart.

The Pros and Cons of Life as a Hairdresser

Like many careers, the life of a hairdresser has both its positive and negative aspects. However, you may be surprised just what these pros and cons really are.

Get started quickly!

You have the potential to become a licensed hairdresser before you even graduate from high school! And even those who choose to study cosmetology after graduating can expect to graduate in about a year, depending on the program.

Another fantastic benefit of this course of study?

You have the option to attend school part-time, even working as an apprentice in a salon, so you have the opportunity to make money in a field-related job while you are learning.

Career growth opportunities

There are many opportunities for career growth in the world of cosmetology. While you are building your clientele base, you can earn additional income through social media outlets, educational opportunities, and side hustles.

And you know what else?

You also have the opportunity to build your personal brand, possibly even becoming your own boss one day.

Here's the deal:

Many stylists are branching out to rent salon suites. This allows you to run a mini salon that is your own business without all of the risk, expense, and overhead of a traditional salon.

Imagine this:

You can be your own boss and choose your own hours while owning your own business.

Watch the video below to learn more:

Never boring

The world of hairdressing is never dull. Every day you have the opportunity to meet all kinds of people in all walks of life. You will be able to treat and trim the hair of all types and textures. A variety of clients will give you stories to tell and time to stretch your skills.

Uncertainty of income

Those who crave the stability of a salary will cringe at the thought of a hairdresser’s income.

Stylists make money based on the number of paying clients, the services requested, and even the tips offered by your customers. None of these things will be consistent, and that does not even factor in additional struggles like cancellations and no-shows.

The truth is:

This uncertainty can be a potential drawback for the money-conscious individual.

The struggle of building clientele

Every hairdresser is an independent stylist who has the responsibility to build and maintain their clientele. Even the most seasoned stylists cannot depend on clients to return consistently.

How can you compensate for this potential drawback?

You will need to provide consistently excellent service, always putting your best foot forward. This can be exhausting for those who cannot imagine dealing with people all day, every day.

But don't despair!

Building your client base is not impossible. Many stylists see real success as they develop their personal brand through social media and provide a flawless experience for client after client.

Out-of-pocket personal expenses

No matter where you choose to work, you will need to purchase some of your own supplies for your job.

The fact of the matter is, while your salon may provide the basics like shampoo, towels, dryers, and curlers, you will need to furnish tools like straightening irons, hairdryers, shearers, and clips out of your own pocket.

Dealing with difficult people

Depending on your interpersonal skills, this may be either a positive or a negative aspect of hairdressing.

Like any job in the world of customer service, there will be rude customers, cancellations, and unrealistic clients. You should be prepared to deal with a wide range of individuals.

And here's a well-kept industry secret:

How you handle even the most challenging client will say a lot about your sticking power in the world of hairdressing.

Lack of benefits

Most hairdressers do not have access to dental, life or health insurance through their employer.

But don't panic:

This just means you will need to research other insurance coverage. While many people have the option to receive coverage through their parents or spouse, others will need to seek coverage through avenues like Medicare or private insurance.

The other drawback?

You will likely not have a retirement fund offered through your salon or social security set aside.

The Exciting World of Hairdressing

The world of a hairdresser can be fast-paced and exciting. You’ll face creative experiences every day and get to know many different people. While some challenges come with being a hairdresser, the stylist who meets each one with positivity and a powerful work ethic will find success and fulfillment through their work.

You can be sure that the life of a stylist will have many more highlights than lowlights, (pun intended!).