Planning a Successful Career in the Hair, Beauty, Wellness and Massage Industry
What does it take to become a successful professional in the hair, beauty, wellness and massage industry? As with most careers, the first step to success is to secure a quality education.
Educational Requirements
The education and credentials required for aspiring beauty professionals will depend upon the particular career path. Skin care specialists, often referred to as estheticians, are required to complete a different educational curriculum than hairstylists or massage therapists. All states require licensure as a prerequisite for cosmetologists, however specific hours of service vary by state. In addition to classroom hours, licensing requirements also mandate that students perform a minimum number of services (i.e. haircuts, manicures, facials, etc.) in order to earn their license.
Beyond Technique – Considering a Curriculum
Beauty school is typically the first step for aspiring beauty professionals. While many people think of beauty school as a place to learn about haircuts, coloring and other beauty procedures, a solid beauty school education will also provide education on customer service, business development and customer retention. As celebrity hairstylist and TV personality Ted Gibson stated, "This isn't a business about getting booked. It's a business about being re-booked." A solid beauty school education will provide students with the artistic and business skills necessary to enter the workforce.
Learning About the Career
High school students wanting to learn more about beauty careers can begin the process online. The American Association of Cosmetology Schools has produced an online video that introduces young people to careers in beauty and wellness. Visit YouTube.com and search "The American Association of Cosmetology Schools," for video features cosmetology students talking about their educational experiences and career plans.
While some individuals such as Ted Gibson parlay their beauty school education to achieve celebrity status, others value beauty careers for the sociability, life/work balance and creativity they offer.
Another good way to learn more about careers in beauty is to talk with individuals already working in the industry. Ask your stylist, barber or a friend working in the beauty industry to describe their job. Job shadowing is another way to learn more about a profession. Also, check out opportunities to work part-time in a salon, day spa or salon.
The On-site Visit
When visiting a beauty school, be sure to bring a list of questions. Find out about the types of educational programs available, and about job fairs they conduct with local salons. Inquire about how the program will prepare you to enter the work world. Do they offer training on business development, customer service and client retention? Does the school provide placement services to help students land a position upon graduation? What kinds of continuing education will they offer as your career progresses? Have their students competed in any competitions or received any industry awards?
Industry trade magazines and Web sites such as American Salon, Modern Salon and Massage Magazine will allow you to see what professionals in the industry are talking about, and get insight into trends driving the industry.
What's the bottom line on careers in beauty? Careers in beauty provide immense opportunities in a wide variety of environments including salons, day spas, resorts, health care settings and even corporate environments. While some jobs, such as chemist or beauty editorial director may require additional education, a solid beauty school education is a great place to start. By maximizing your resources and chatting with professionals in the industry, you'll be off to a beautiful start on your career in beauty!
Editorial provided by Jim Cox, Executive Director of the American Association of Cosmetology Schools.
