Hairdressing 101 - everything you need to know about hairdressing
10 Ways to get a job this year
1. Search everyday
This is easier said than done, but consider this: 60% of managers say vacancies are filled within 30 days, and 30% filling positions within 2 weeks. You need to apply for jobs as soon as they are posted in order to have the best chance of landing the job. Salonjobseeker.com can make the application process fast and effective.
2. Increase your network
Many jobs are filled by referrals. It’s not what you know, it’s whom you know – or more precisely, who knows you! Get out and circulate, and put yourself in front of potential employers. Registering an online CV with Salonjobseeker is a great way to advertise your talent to leading salon and spa employers.
3. Set up job alerts
What could be easier than having your ideal hairdressing jobs e-mailed directly to you as soon as they are posted, Salonjobseeker.com can provide you with this service. Its free, confidential and saves you time searching.
4. Don’t put it off
As job openings can be filled quickly, don’t put off making that application. Salonjobseeker.com allows jobseekers to apply for jobs at anytime of day meaning applications are with the employer immediately. Maybe you receive a job offer that isn’t quite right for you at the moment. Be sure to reply to the employer efficiently and politely. You never know what opportunities they may have for you in the future.
5. Research the industry
Having a good knowledge of the whole industry will be hugely beneficial. There is a wealth of knowledge available to hairdressers, through trade magazines, shows and the Internet. Keeping current with trends and forecasts will make you an asset to potential employers.
6. Lead the way
It goes without saying that leading by example can provide many extra opportunities that you may not have expected. Relatively straightforward tasks such as mentoring younger stylists or taking a more active role in improving the business side of salon, could lead to alternative opportunities opening or recognition from elsewhere in the industry.
7. Create a quality CV
Employers predict how well you’ll perform based on your past accomplishments. Be selective about the information you provide but provide details on goals achieved, abilities developed and lessons learned. Only include information relevant for the job you are applying for.
8. Interview preparation
Taking a portfolio of your work is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate what you are capable of. Some sort of trade test will likely be required. Do what you do, do it well and don’t try anything too fancy.
9. Have realistic expectations
It can take months to find a suitable job. And in that time you may face a lot of rejection. You might have to send off a dozen CVs before you’re invited to an interview and attend several interviews before actually being offered a job. Stick at it and your opportunity will come.
10. Stay motivated
With the hair and beauty industry growing so rapidly, there is no shortage of exciting opportunities arising throughout the UK and around the world. Stay motivated and passionate and your exciting career could take you anywhere, from cruising the Caribbean to working with A list celebrities!
20 reasons to choose a hairdressing job
1. Job satisfaction
It is said that hairdressers are amongst employees most happy with their job. Few other jobs can provide such rewarding job satisfaction as regularly as a job in hairdressing. What could be better than using your skills to enhance the well being of every client?
2. Highly regarded skill
Once you’ve qualified your newly gained skills will stay with you. Hairdressing in the UK is regarded as being amongst the best in the world and so there is no better time to get involved in the industry.
3. Growing industry
The hair and beauty industry has gone from strength to strength in recent years and shows no sign of slowing. Training remains in high demand, job opportunities are plentiful and the standards of hairdressing throughout the UK continues to increase.
4. Recession proof industry
During times of economical uncertainty many businesses face very hard times. Hairdressing and beauty therapy however, continues to grow and provides a comforting reassurance to anyone involved within the hair and beauty industry.
5. Good job progression
From junior to salon manager, apprentice to director the career ladder for hairdressers is exciting and opportunities are abundant. There are also many alternative roles that can be taken within the industry such as educators or sales representatives.
6. Being yourself
A hairdressing employee has a rewarding position that allows them to express their own personality. It is also believed that after time you attract clients with similar personalities and interests making your job even more enjoyable.
7. Forming relationships
The intimate nature of a beauty or hairdressing job enables individuals to form strong relationships with clients and other staff. Being part of a strong, friendly team will also ensure that you remain motivated and passionate about your job.
8. A relaxed, rewarding job.
Hairdressing allows stylists to connect with many clients on a personal level, providing not only a very relaxed working environment but also job satisfaction that is all yours!
9. Achievable short and long-term goals
A career in hairdressing allows employees to set and regularly achieve many short and long-term goals. Whether it’s reaching a certain sales target this week or opening your own salon within 5 years. Motivated employees can set and achieve many goals.
10. Show creative talent
Hairdressing allows all stylists to express their creative talents and vision. The career also provides individuals to specialise in certain areas that may excel in, cutting, colouring or putting up hair.
11. Making a difference
A job in hairdressing can allow staff to take a very active role in the success and development of the salon. From providing services personally to being able to provide suggestions based on experience in other areas of the business.
12. Earnings, bonuses and commissions
Basic salaries for many hairdressers starting off in the industry are generally around the minimum wage. However, in many salons motivated staff of all levels can increase their income dramatically with commission and bonuses for service and retail targets.
13. Opportunities abroad
A job in hairdressing can lead you all over the world; many countries such as Australia have regular demand for quality, qualified hairdressers.
14. Cruise jobs
Many cruise ships have salons and spas aboard. For ambitious stylists a job on a cruise liner can lead seeing many wonders of the world.
15. Teaching opportunities
For many hairdressers the reward of passing on knowledge is very satisfying. Teaching opportunities within the industry are plentiful, from in salon trainers, to college lecturers or brand retail educators.
16. Show, photographic work
Many salons display their work on a national or even international stage. Many shows and competitions are organised each year providing stylists with a great opportunity to display their talent and gain more knowledge of the industry.
17. TV, Movies or Fashion
Another Exciting route that a career in hairdressing can take you is into TV, movies or fashion. Whose hair could you be cutting in years to come?
18. National or International recognition
Hairdressing is an industry that provides salons and individuals with many ways of publicly displaying their work. A potentially fast track to national or international recognition for a talented stylist.
19. Develop alternative skills
A job in a salon can help you develop a number of alternative skills. You will obviously develop excellent communication skills due to the nature of the business but you can also expect to develop alternative skills. Useful skills such as sales techniques, advertising procedures and man management techniques all provide valuable experience for the future.
20. Becoming self-employed
Few jobs can provide such an easy progression into self-employment like hairdressing and beauty therapy can. To work on a freelance basis is becoming increasingly popular and opportunities such as renting space in an already established salon go some way to limit the initial risk.
20 ways to enhance your CV
1. Tailor your CV for the particular job.
Ensure that your CV is relevant for the job. Don’t send the same CV for several jobs. Employers are impressed if you’ve taken the time to research a little about them and tailored your application to suit.
2. Be selective about the info you provide.
There’s no need to bulk out your CV with irrelevant information. Leave the employer wanting to meet you.
3. Explain about goals achieved
Give details of goals that you achieved in previous positions, they may give you the edge you need over the competition.
4. Describe skills developed
Give explanations of skills that you have developed within the role and any that may give you added value to the position.
5. Describe lessons learned.
Provide information about any lessons that you have learned relevant for the job role. It will reassure the employer that you have experience and that you continue to learn.
6. Keep irrelevant sections to a minimum
Avoid large sections of information that provide no indication of your suitability for the advertised job to a minimum. Details about hobbies etc should be kept to a minimum.
7. Avoid jargon
Your CV should flow in a professional manner. Avoid the use of jargon even if it is industry specific. Your CV may seem casual and you may alienate employers that are unaware of particular terms.
8. Ensure it is well formatted
Your CV should be formatted well. Stick with a traditional word processor font. Section well and use headers to ensure easy reading. Avoid too many colours, too much boldness or underlining.
9. Keep your CV up to date
It’s crucial that you update your CV whenever necessary. Online CVs should be edited frequently. Employers can browse CVs freely so ensure that yours contains details of all your latest qualifications and relevant experience.
10. Inappropriate inclusions
Take care not to include anything that may put off a potential employer. You may well be the best candidate for the job but something like a crude email address could prevent employers arranging an interview.
11. Remove bad spelling
This is fairly obvious, ensure that the grammar is of a high standard and always do a spell check or check words in a dictionary.
12. Keep to a good length
Your CV should be an insight into your abilities and previous experience. Remember you want to leave the employer wanting to know more. A good rule of thumb would be no more than 2 pages of A4.
13. Avoid large gaps
Any gaps in your employment history could result in the employer making their own conclusions. If you raised a family then say so, be honest, direct but don’t go into too much detail.
14. References
Many people look at providing references as a negative exercise. This shouldn’t be the case. A couple of well formatted references explaining values that you can bring to your next employment can only be beneficial.
15. Unique accomplishments
If you’re a hair stylist the employer will have expected you to have cut hair and dealt with customers. Make sure you bring information about achievements and accomplishments that make you unique.
16. Previous employment details
Be sure to have exact dates of all your previous jobs. Make sure that your employment history starts with your most recent job and works backwards. Be sure to give any brief details about any employment gaps.
17. Be proud of your achievements
Your CV should be used to shout about the things that you are good at. Give details of everything you have achieved in work at college, or even in your personal life.
18. Ensure it has a good structure
Your CV must be well structured and easy to read. Ensure that it flows well and summarises your skills and experience thoroughly and early on. Don’t make the employer read paragraph after paragraph to find relevant information.
19. Ask others for input
By asking others for their input they may well point out personal assets or accomplishments that you failed to mention.
20. Get feedback from others before sending it.
It’s well worth having someone read over your CV before sending it. They can look at it with an unbiased view without knowledge of the industry and point out any errors that you may have missed.
11 ways to develop your hair or beauty career
1. Continued learning
Courses provide an excellent way to develop your career within the industry. From learning different hairdressing techniques to more business related courses there are hundreds of opportunities to improve.
2. Mentor others
Showing good leadership skills is an excellent way to promote yourself and develop your skills. Not only is it rewarding short term, but it can also lead to future recognition and job opportunities within a teaching role.
3. Gain secondary skills
It’s always a good idea to have a wide range of skills that can add value to a hairdressing team. Computer literacy and successful sales techniques are examples of secondary skills that can be of great use within the salon.
4. Work on weaknesses
You may well be the best stylist in the town, but look at possible areas of personal improvement. Maybe your retail sales aren’t so strong? Look at ways to improve and excel in any area of weakness.
5. Keep networking
Hairdressing is a very sociable job, providing stylists with an opportunity to build up a large network of contacts. This is vital to establish your current position and also if you have ambitions to open a salon or become self-employed.
6. Research the industry
With the industry being one of regular changing trends it is important to stay in touch with the latest techniques, technologies and styles. Trade shows, magazines and the Internet provide a wealth of knowledge and can keep you aware of the latest opportunities.
7. Display your talent
Stylists should seize any opportunity to display their skills wherever possible. Fashion shows and magazine work provide both excellent exposure and valuable experience.
8. Voluntary experience
Undertaking voluntary work can be very beneficial in a number of ways. Not only does it provide you with added experience and skills, but it can also give you an insight as to what a particular career path might entail before committing yourself to a change.
9. Prepare for promotion
It’s a good idea to prepare for the next rung of the ladder even before the opportunity has arrived. Having an idea of marketing or man management techniques for example gives you added value and can save a lot of time and headache when needed in the future.
10. Contribute toward the salons development
Businesses are always looking at ways to improve and often need to make changes. As a valued member of the team if you have any recommendations or are asked for your opinion be sure to speak up. Avoid sitting back as this can come across as complacency or lacking interest.
11. Get feedback
It’s important to get feedback regularly from peers. You need an unbiased, outsiders view on your performance to ensure that any weakness can be improved that you may not be aware of.
10 new hairstyles for 2009
In 2009 hairstyles are taking a trip down memory lane. With 1940s retro fashion being popular, this is reflected in hairstyling. There is sure to be something for everyone, whether you have long hair, short hair, male or female. The catwalks have seen sophistication, as per the era, with sleek updos and free curls. Short crops remain popular and 2009 is looking like it will be bright with regards to hair colour.
1. Womens short hair
Short hair can still be super feminine if the fringe and layers are cut to suit your face. Think Victoria Beckham as an excellent example in 2008.
2. Womens long hair
Long hair will continue to be fashionable as long as you can put the time in to jazz it up. Retro looks are in, such as neat, glossy finishes as worn by 40’s starlets. Waves are also fashionable in 2009 worn in the bottom section of the hair with the top sections left smooth and straight.
3. Blonde colours
If you want blonde think multi shades. A full head of blonde looks great but use multi toned highlights including golden and ash blondes to give a modern 2009 look.
4. Fringes and ponytails
This year fringes are being worn full and super short or layered and visor like. Alternatives fringes include side swept fringes worn by the likes of Alexa Chung and super short, heavy, blunt fringe worn by Cameron Diaz.
Ponytails are an excellent way to keep the hair long but show off a beautiful face. In 2009 the ponytail is more than just scraped back. It should be dressed up and scrunched or crimped for a full-bodied look. Half ponytails are also cute and fashionable easy to style and less severe.
5. Alternative and edgy styles
Punk and Rock n Roll influences are strong for 2009. Quiffs are all the rage and have been seen on many catwalks this year. Quiffs add height and an element of glamour to any length hair. Short hair can quickly be made super glamorous with just a touch of styling. Even long hairstyles can be tied back with the front part quiffed for a fashionable evening look.
6. Dark colours
Think dark, sultry Angelina Jolie as a great example of dark tones this year. Deep chocolates and even aubergine are what you should aim for. Dark hair with lots of shine will prove versatile for creating fashionable 40s influenced styles.
7. Alternative colours
Warm, rich and vibrant, red tones are very popular for 2009. From deep copper tones to more pink shades 2009 will be bright. A red streak or full head colour looks fun and gives any hairstyle an ultra modern look.
8. Men’s short hair
Men’s hairstyles are set to be classically influenced during 2009. Military style short back and sides with length left on top for a variety of styles. Styles such as the classic side part have been popular on the catwalks. Fringes of different lengths to suit the individual face are also hugely popular this year.
9. Men’s long hair
Long hairstyles are popular again for 2009 with sleeker, precision cuts with natural movement for longer styles. Other classic looks include the sleek back look, more suited to straight mid length hair.
10. Men’s hair colour
For a colour that really suits the sleek, sharp classic styles of 2009 you need to look at light blondes. Avoid blondes verging on white-blonde or using light blondes with rugged styles. With the influence for the year being classic, traditional styles, the best colour is probably your own!
10 skills that salon employers are looking for
1. Passion and enthusiasm
Individuals wanting a career in the hair and beauty industry need to be passionate, enthusiastic. Dealing with clients in person day after day means employees must be passionate about their work at all times. Clients easily pick up on the atmosphere of a salon.
2. Reliability
As with any job it’s important for staff to be reliable. With the industry being largely appointment based the need for reliable employees is vital.
3. Conscientiousness
Everyone in a salon contributes towards the salons success. From the receptionist taking a coat, to stylists carrying out more technical services. Therefore, it is important to have conscientious staff with the salons best interest at heart.
4. A team player
Hairdressing and beauty therapy is a sociable, inter personal career. It should be fairly obvious that anyone working within the salon is able to bond with clients and colleagues. It is particularly important for salon managers to be approachable.
5. Creativity and vision
To be a successful stylist you should be creative and have vision. You also need to be able to portray your vision to your clients as well as other staff at times. Inspirational stylists are valued members of any modern salon and contribute greatly to the salons culture, development and success.
6. Adaptability
Various areas of a stylist’s job role may change due to the development of the business. It is important that employees adapt to any changes quickly and support the company’s decisions.
7. Positive attitude
In such a customer facing business it’s vital that employees have a positive attitude, it is important to leave any out of work issues at home and deal with any problems in the workplace professionally and in the correct manner.
8. Good personal management
Salon staff should have excellent personal management skills. This means that they should take pride in their appearance and pay close attention to personal hygiene. It’s also necessary for staff to have good time management and communication skills.
9. High standards
From cleaning to much more involved technical services all employers will be expected to carry out work to the highest standards. Staff will be expected to produce the highest quality work every day.
10. Motivation
Motivation is one of the most important attributes of a successful hairdresser. It can be easy to see the same faces and begin to become complacent. Set personal goals and absorb as much information as possible to remain determined and passionate.
10 tips for a good cover letter & interview
Cover letters
A cover letter is an essential part of an application. Its surprising therefore that so many jobseekers choose not to send one off with their CV. Be sure to stand out by being amongst those that do, it might be a deciding factor as to whether you are invited to an interview.
1. Tailor the letter for the job
Do a little research into the company and explain why you are interested in the employer. The recruiter will be impressed that you have taken time to learn about them. It also shows the employer that you’re serious about your application.
2. Don’t fill it with CV contents
Ideally try not to exceed a single page of A4. Your cover letter should be used to promote your application. Your cover letter is used to prompt interest and to be read in conjunction with your CV so avoid filling it with all your selling points.
3. Keep it positive
Describe briefly the key skills, experience and knowledge that you possess. You should aim to match your skills with the advertised requirements for the job and show the employer what benefits you can bring to the organisation.
4. Be direct and polite
If you know the name of the employer ensure you address your cover letter to their attention. Mention when you are available for an interview and that you would like an opportunity to further discuss
5. Format your application
Be sure to sign off your cover letter in the correct manner. Check your letter for punctuation and spelling before sending.
Interviews
If you successfully make it through to an interview you will need to put on an exceptional performance. Regardless of your suitability for the job a poor interview can destroy your chances. Presenting well at an interview requires careful preparation, below we list a few top interview tips.
6. Remember the basics
Allow plenty of time, don’t be late and switch off your phone. Arriving late and your phone going off will suggest that you may be disorganised or complacent. Employers certainly aren’t looking for these qualities and do not want to hear excuses.
7. Dress for the role
Employers are looking for someone professional and who takes pride in their appearance. Being a customer facing industry it is very important to take pride in your appearance, particularly as you are supposedly an expert in personal grooming. Make sure your outfit is clean and pressed and pay attention to your personal hygiene.
8. Body language
How you present yourself will go some way in determining how well you will do. Always shake the interviewers hand confidently with a positive greeting. Maintain good eye contact throughout. Answer questions looking directly at the interviewer, glancing at other interviewers where applicable to keep them involved. Smile when the opportunity presents itself. You’re applying for a customer facing job, having a positive outlook are essential.
9. Know your CV
The employer has invited you to an interview based on the contents of your CV. You can now expect to be asked lots of questions based on the information contained in your CV. Read through your CV the before attending your interview and anticipate any potentially difficult questions that you may face.
10. Have confidence in yourself
Remember the whole reason for the interview is to sell your self. You’re looking to show the employer that your skills and experience accurately fits their requirements and that your personality will fit into their organisation. Tell yourself that you’re going to be confident and positive, visualise it and ensure that your body language reflects it during your interview by having a good posture.
10 things to consider before becoming a self-employed hairdresser or beauty therapist
1. Staying within the law
There are many added responsibilities when becoming self-employed. From Tax requirements to health and safety laws to abide, it is important to research exactly what is required of you or your new company.
2. Staffing and Recruitment
Working regulations, contracts, and wages to name a few points. There are many things to look into before employing your first member of staff.
3. Sickness
No more sick pay. Remember that if you’re not working then you won’t be earning, unless you have alternative staff running things, which would mean additional costs.
4. Holidays
You should expect at least for the first 12 months to be fully bound to your new business venture. This will mean limited time off, and again you can no longer expect holiday pay.
5. Quality time management
Its crucial that you have excellent time management, time will be restricted and you will find yourself with ten times as many task to complete now that you’re self-employed. Ordering stock, marketing etc as well as carrying out your usual services.
6. Sound support
It’s a good idea to have a list of contacts that can provide you with sound advice. A solicitor, business or financial advisor are all valuable sources of information and can help you to keep your business on the right track.
7. Planning
With so much to organise, the first thing to complete is an accurate business plan. This should be an honest look at the prospects for your venture. Be sure to include everything, however small it may seem, and don’t kid yourself if it suggests it will be near impossible to make any money. It’s a great idea to have an exit strategy even before you’ve started.
8. Increased overheads
Are you prepared for the added expenses? You’re now solely responsible for any required advertising, stock, staffing costs and any other bills.
9. Financing
It is important for you to have a good grasp of your finances. As with any business venture you will most likely encounter unpredicted expenses as well as the regular expected costs. It is crucial that you are prepared and have sound plans in place for such occasions.
10. Added pressure
Becoming a self-employed hairdresser or beauty therapist brings huge amounts of added pressure. Anyone with a family or dependables should certainly think very carefully before taking the leap. For those that do, with quality planning and excellent organisation it can be the most rewarding move they ever make.
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