How to Become a Hairdresser

Hairdressers cut, style, color, maintain, and treat people's hair. There are lots of things you could end up specializing in as a hairdresser. You can specialize in just cutting and shampooing hair. You can be a hairstylist for occasions and events or even clip-in hair extensions. Here is how to become a hairdresser and become successful.

Learn the Skill

Some high schools offer cosmetology programs you can take, but if you are out of high school or your school doesn't offer these programs, there are other options. Find out if there are any vocational schools that you can complete some of the training hours required for a hairstylist license. You could also be an apprentice to an experienced and established hairdresser and learn the skill. There is also an option to register in a beauty school where you are taught everything you need to know about hairdressing.

Complete the Training Program

Most cosmetology programs take between one and two years to complete, depending on whether you attend part-time or full-time. You should expect to complete a combination of classroom work and hands-on work during your program. At most schools, you will begin your hand-on training by working on mannequins, before eventually progressing to working on real clients at the school's salon. Besides learning how to cut, color, and style hair, you will likely be required to learn about sanitation, anatomy, and business management.

Get licensed as a Hairdresser

Once you complete your program, you will be required to apply for a cosmetology or hairstylist license. Licensing procedures are unique in each state, but you will typically be required to pass a written test and a practical test to demonstrate that you understand the hairstyling theories and can implement them. Also, make sure you renew your license if necessary.

Apply for a job as a Hairdresser

When applying for jobs online, you will need to submit a resume and cover letter that details your experience, training, and interests. Be extremely thorough when writing these documents and highlight qualifications and experience that make you a unique candidate. Even if you weren't working in a salon, the customer service experience is a plus. You will need to show off your skills to potential employers, so having a portfolio of your work is extremely important. You can search for jobs at salons and spas online by using job boards. Another option is to open your salon, although you should probably only consider this if you know how to run a business and some experience as a hairstylist.

Be passionate about your job 

To be a hairdresser, you must have a passion for the job. If you love working with people, expressing your creativity, and paying attention to details, a career as a hairstylist may be perfect for you. 

Get ready to connect with clients in a personal way 

Hairstylists need to be extremely personable to retain clients. If you don't enjoy talking to people or are not very upbeat, this profession may not be right. To be successful as a hairstylist, you will need to be able to deal with unhappy customers, learn from your mistakes, and not take criticism too personally.