Did you watch TV or movies and pay more attention, more intrigue hairstyles? Do all your friends who call you before the official events to seek for help because their hair? Have you cut only a knack for hair?
If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes”, then you might want to seriously consider a career in hairdressing. Here are some steps to consider when planning such a career.
Are you still in high school? If you are, you visit your school district. Is there a school for vocational and technical education (often as a vo-tech school) where you can in fashion design classes? If so, you may be able to work for these classes in your entire curriculum. The purpose of a vo-tech school is to provide valuable vocational training at secondary level, so that students gain marketable skills along with the typical high school subjects such as art, history and language to mathematics.
But what if your school does not have a vo-tech program? Or if he has one, but it does not work hairdressing and beauty classes? Do not worry – you will probably have these courses in a local community college to take. The downside is that you may not get college credit for them, which means you must take classes on your own time. But check with your school – you could work a deal.
In high school, or close to completion? Start looking for a school for beauty – a center of specialized training that will teach you everything you know about a career in hairdressing. It’s like a school for hairdressers. And it also represents a challenge, depending on where you go, you have to meet somewhere 1000-2000 hours for graduation.
Check your state requirements. Depending on where you live, you may need to spend some time as an apprentice hairdresser at a bank. Other states require that students take both the cosmetology written and practical exam to complete the practical test. And in some countries the demand for a regular renewal of your license in cosmetology. Familiarize yourself with the laws of your state before you begin your trip, so you know what to expect.
Think about it, where you want to work. Many designers start their careers in the salons, that is where the lion’s share of demand. Then there is a mystery. Some stay in the lounges. Others are teachers in the school of cosmetics. Some end up on film sets and TV – jobs that pay well. And some manage to find a job as a personal stylist to politicians, celebrities and other high-profile.
Network! Take classes in cosmetics is a great opportunity to start the kind of friends and contacts to continue throughout your career. But do not stop networking – that’s how you find the best jobs.
D. Michael Kirby is a freelance writer in California. He writes about health and beauty, DIY, travel and technology. One of his customers is Wagman hair, a leading global supplier of hair extensions and weaves.