Hairdressers are the experts in cutting, styling, colouring, bleaching, treating, and maintaining hair. If you have a good sense of style, great sociable skills, and manual dexterity, then this might well be the right path for you!
To work as a professional hairdresser, you need the right qualifications and certain skills that you will continue to develop. It can be a hugely rewarding career, especially if you are passionate about the fashion industry.
Here are 5 things you need to do to become a hairdresser:
- Do your research.
Before you delve in, it’s always good to do a bit of research first. There’s more to hairdressing than meets the eye, and it goes beyond just hair expertise. Every day, you’ll have someone new sitting in your chair and each person brings a new experience, and likely a lot of conversation. If you’re friendly and open, these interpersonal skills will come naturally.
Hairdressing is also a very fast-paced, image-conscious business where fashion changes constantly. Be aware that there are many physical and social demands in the workplace, so you’ll have to be energetic and presentable.
Tip: It would also be good to consider the location(s) of where you want to work. Hairstylists are always in demand on a global scale, so you needn’t worry about a lack of job opportunities!
- Attend an accredited training school.
The minimum educational requirement to pursue a professional course is to be at least 15 years old. You can begin an apprenticeship or training while you are still at school, or you may choose to take more of a full-time position. You can start right at the entry-level certificate III in hairdressing, you can make your way up to becoming a pro-level stylist. Similarly, you can also take apprenticeships
Tip: You’ll benefit from developing a professional portfolio of your best work while in school. It may help increase your likelihood of finding employment in salons after you complete a program.
- Obtain your certification.
To become a fully licensed stylist, you need to complete the certificate III in hairdressing. This is an essential step to a long and fruitful career; with a nationally recognised qualification, a whole world of opportunity opens up to you. You can now practice professionally.
- Get your first job as a professional hairstylist.
Getting your first job after earning your certification is a pretty exciting milestone! There is huge potential in the market, and whether you choose to be employed or work for yourself as a freelancer, you can start making a good salary.
Tip: Even after you’re employed, keep building your portfolio so you keep yourself open to working in a variety of different settings, including spas, resorts, fashion parades, and photoshoots and even on-set for films and TV!
- Never stop learning!
Even after graduating, the learning never stops. You’ll be training on the go as new trends and technology crop up so you can keep up! Be open to new things, and naturally apply that to your creativity and flair.
Conclusion
Think you have what it takes to become a certified hairdresser? Don’t stop there! Obtain your Certificate III in Hairdressing and start working as a professional. At Demi International, we offer a fully accredited certificate III in hairdressing to jump-start your career. Call us to find out more!
