Launching and Thriving in the Hairdressing World
With over 25 years of experience under my belt, I’m here to share reflections and advice that might illuminate your path and offer you new perspectives, whether you're fresh out of school or contemplating a change within the industry.
My Journey Through Hairdressing
I started my journey in hairdressing at the tender age of 16. After vocational school and a couple of years assisting, I built a clientele, moved from New York to Las Vegas, and did it all over again. My experience spans across commissioned salons, suite rentals, corporate casino resorts, and now, as an owner of my own salon. I've found that the biggest challenge when starting out is figuring out which work environment suits you best.
Exploring Diverse Work Environments
It’s important to explore all the options before settling into a work environment. There are multiple ways to get paid and various environments to work in, each with its distinct pros and cons. The key is finding what fits your unique style and preferences. Be open to different methods and experiences, and consider mentorship opportunities to help guide you. Don’t forget to learn about the business side of hair services as well.
Understanding Income Potentials
A common misconception in our industry revolves around expected income and growth timelines. Often, people underestimate how much they can earn and how their career paths can evolve. From my experience, you can make a substantial income if you build strong client relationships and offer specific services with consistent quality. Starting with realistic expectations and a defined goal hastens your growth trajectory rather than falling into a default pattern of working and hoping for natural progression.
Education: Beyond School
Formal education often focuses on passing state boards but leaves many gaps in practical knowledge. I advise continuous learning beyond graduation—through mentorship, working alongside experienced stylists, and pursuing further education specific to your interests, whether that be color, cutting, or specialized services like extensions. Learning the business side—client management, pricing your services adequately, and handling tax obligations—is equally crucial.
Adapting to Trends and Learning Fundamentals
Remain open to learning, even if trends repeat cycles from decades past. Understanding fundamental hairdressing principles ensures you adapt to new trends fluidly and keep pace with changing client requests. Techniques like balayage might resurface under different names, but the foundational methods are timeless and provide a competitive edge.
Building the Client-Stylist Relationship
Building a successful career hinges on establishing strong connections with clients. Learn to navigate conversations, even around sensitive topics like politics, with finesse and tact. Your interactions should build trust, encouraging clients to return and refer new business your way. Transparency during consultations—such as managing expectations for transformative color treatments over multiple sessions—maintains professional integrity and client satisfaction.
Conclusion
My experience underscores the value of exploring varied environments, continual learning, and focusing on building strong client relationships. With these insights, you can navigate your career path more strategically and successfully. Whether you’re beginning your journey or looking to transition, remember to assess your options, pursue constant growth, and cultivate meaningful client bonds. If you're interested in learning more about opportunities within the hairdressing industry or have specific questions, feel free to reach out via social media or email. Let’s continue to grow together in this vibrant, ever-evolving field.
