Unlike many other professions, there are a number of ways to gain hairdressing training. Some hairdressers enroll in formal school programs, while others begin by working as interns in a hair salon. Both ways of learning how to become a hairdresser are viable, though formal schooling is beginning to take precedence over industry training.
Many years ago, hairdressing training could be achieved by seeking out an apprenticeship within a popular salon. Today, apprenticeships are still available, though most U.S states require that all hairdressers also have a cosmetology license. In order to obtain this license, candidates must have a high school diploma, and a diploma from an accredited cosmetology school.
Following the successful completion of a cosmetology program, all graduates must secure apprenticeship positions at a salon. This type of apprenticeship is often similar to a paid, full-time, position. During an apprenticeship, new hairdressers will be able to put learned techniques to use, while learning other skills from experienced professionals.
Once a six-month apprenticeship has been completed, all cosmetology license candidates must pass a state examination. If this examination is passed successfully, newly licensed cosmetologists will find a large number of openings at various types of salons. While schooling, apprenticeship programs, and licensing is important, hairdresser training also includes a great deal of customer service.
Often, working in a fast-paced salon can be stressful. Hairdressers must have the ability to converse with clients, calm frantic clients, work with children, assist people in wheelchairs, and present a cheerful attitude at all times. Therefore, those candidates that do not possess great people skills should attempt to become more sociable.
Additionally, hairdressers may be asked to perform administrative duties. These tasks can include booking appointments, answering phones, filing paperwork, handling money, and speaking with haircare suppliers. Depending upon the size of a salon, hairdressers might also be asked to perform simply maintenance tasks such as sweeping hair and cleaning bathrooms.
Hairdressing training requirements will vary from country to country, though most countries do require candidates to have some type of formal schooling. Positions within this field can be found by applying to salons directly, or through job placement websites. Although some salons may not advertise hairdressing positions, many of these salons have openings for experienced candidates.
Candidates with a large amount of hairdressing training are often sought-after by employers. Frequently, top salons only hire candidates that have more than five years of experience, though this is not always the case. Still, it never hurts to have extensive hairdressing training for those candidates that want to gain top salon positions.
