KEY TAKEAWAYS: In this article we'll share the must-know details about running your cosmetology career that you may or may not learn in your beauty education at cosmetology school. This blog details important info like protecting your license, building relationships, networking, and key tips for running and marketing your business.
What Beauty Education Cosmetology Pros Can't Teach You
No matter what cosmetology school you attended, the reality is this: you're not going to get the full picture of beauty education there.
Don't get us wrong–a premium beauty education at a cosmetology school is a must. But you can't learn everything you need to learn there.
So, where does the rest of that education come from?
Real-life experience, mentors, and the cosmetologists who have come before you.
We're sharing insight from a former education director at Paul Mitchell Schools and Beauty Schools of America who has seen students dream bigger than ever in our industry.
The highlight of the job, according to our expert?
Hearing about the student's big dreams–then watching them achieve them.
The amazing thing about the beauty industry is that you can go as far as you are willing to take it. We see platform artists, social media influencers, and educators walk through the doors and immediately feel inspired.
Inspired to be just as successful and become the $100,000 hairdresser they have always longed to be. Now, where does reality lie in all of this, and is it possible? The answer is a resounding yes, but it comes at a price early in the career.
I don’t mean money—I mean time.
The biggest mistake students can make is wait until they graduate and get licensed before investing their time in their career.
Here are a few things you can do that your cosmetology programs and beauty education may not tell you about creating a successful cosmetology career.
The Must-Know Beauty Education You Can't Get from Cosmetology Programs
Build Your Brand
As artists we often think that cosmetology school is all about perfecting haircuts, styles, and colors. However, the most important part of a beauty career is learning how to market your brand.
You can be the best colorist on the planet, but if you do not know how to showcase your work, good luck! Social media has dominated our generation, and you should make sure you are using it to the best of its abilities.
I see students that are great at posting pictures of themselves but never mention a word about their career. Then, there’s the ones that are constantly begging people to come schedule appointments.
There is a fine line between being too aggressive and not aggressive enough. Connecting with your audience by building up a platform that is consistent and informative is going to be the key to building your brand.
There are so many marketing opportunities that you can take advantage of while you are in school, and I suggest starting now.
This doesn't just mean establishing yourself on social media (though, that's a must, too!)–it means securing your brand, understanding your target audience, and setting yourself up as an expert in your niche!
Focus on Relationships & Networking
How much money does a hairdresser make with no clients? The reality is many salons are on commission, and no clients means no money.
I have heard students say, “I don’t want to just make the school money.” Students, don’t ever say this. I always told my students that I want them to take their clients when they graduate.
Salons are becoming better at marketing their business and attracting people to the salon, however, it is your responsibility to bring people in. Starting in school is the perfect way to get in the habit of this.
What’s better than going into a salon with an already established book? Each minute spent on the salon floor with a guest is a chance to build your book.
No social media platform or website outweighs in-person relationship building. Cut the small talk.
Instead, learn about your guests and make sure they all leave with your social media info, get them on your email list, and a few business cards to share to be on their way to success even before you graduate.
Protect Your License with Cosmetology Liability Insurance
We know how nerve wracking it is to study and take the state board. Sometimes we don’t think about the things that can jeopardize our license before even passing the state board.
As students, it is important to understand that you are in a learning stage. It’s okay to make mistakes, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Here’s your answer, professional liability insurance. This type of insurance can be purchased even as a cosmetology student and covers any type of mishaps that may happen behind the chair or at an outside event.
Most beauty insurance providers include extras that come with your coverage, such as stolen equipment coverage and identity theft protection. Protect yourself and your career by taking advantage of the lowest rate on the market. If you take the time to invest in your career with these tips, you will be well on your way to a successful beauty career.
Love this advice? Good news–we've got a lot more where that came from! Subscribe to Elite Beauty Society ASAP to get the inside scoop on the best advice, the hottest trends, and the need-to-know info you may not learn in cosmetology school.
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