How to Be Hairdresser - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 4, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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Getting a regular haircut from a professional hairdresser can have a positive effect on your personal appearance and confidence. Frequent haircuts can help maintain a healthy scalp, reduce split ends, and keep hair looking attractive and vibrant. a hairdresser can recommend suitable styles and products that are unique to each individual's needs and lifestyle, ensuring the best overall look.

Furthermore, the experience of being in a salon can be relaxing and rejuvenating, allowing clients to take some time out of their busy lives to focus on self-care and personal grooming. regular trips to the hairdresser can help improve the way you look, feel, and present yourself to the world.

Steps How to Become

Take a hairdressing course. To become a hairdresser, you'll need to take an accredited hairdressing course. Look for courses that will teach you the basics of cutting and styling hair, colouring and perming techniques, and the importance of client consultation. Some courses may also include health and safety training.
Get a license. Depending on where you live, you may need a license or certification to be able to practice as a hairdresser. Check with your local government to find out what the requirements are in your area.
Find an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are a great way to gain hands-on experience and learn from experienced professionals. Look for apprenticeships at local salons or contact trade organizations for help finding one.
Network. Making connections in the industry can help you get your foot in the door. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and create an online presence to meet other hairdressers and potentially find clients.
Develop your skills. Continue to learn and develop your skills by taking additional classes or workshops, reading magazines, and experimenting with new techniques.
Market yourself. To get clients, you'll need to market yourself. Create a website, distribute business cards, and advertise on social media to get the word out about your services.

Having an ideal and competent hairdresser is essential for achieving desired hair goals. Finding one who understands individual needs and has the necessary skills is key. Firstly, research is important to find the right hairdresser for the job.

Look for reviews and recommendations from friends and family to be sure of the quality of service. Secondly, it's important to communicate effectively with the hairdresser to ensure they understand exactly what type of style and look you are hoping to achieve. Finally, it's important to maintain a healthy hair care routine both in between salon appointments and after to ensure that the desired look is maintained.

Doing so will help keep hair looking fresh, vibrant and stylish.

You may want to check Makeup Artist Instructor, Spa Attendant, and Medical Aesthetician for alternative.

Job Description

Greet and consult clients on desired services
Recommend hair care products and styling techniques
Cut, shape, trim, and taper hair using clippers, scissors, combs, and razors
Apply various styling techniques such as curling, straightening, braiding, and weaving
Color, bleach, and highlight hair using foils or other coloring techniques
Provide scalp treatments to rejuvenate and invigorate clients
Clean and maintain all salon equipment and tools
Schedule appointments and maintain client records
Perform administrative duties such as creating invoices and ordering supplies
Suggest additional services to clients to increase revenue

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of current hair trends and techniques
Ability to consult with clients to identify their needs
Skilled in hair cutting, styling, and coloring services
Ability to use various salon tools and products
Knowledge of hygiene and safety standards
Attention to detail
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to work independently or in a team
Good time management skills
Patience and a friendly attitude

A successful hairdresser needs to have a wide range of skills, but the most important skill to have is the ability to listen. Being a good listener helps hairdressers to understand their clients needs and preferences, allowing them to create the perfect hairstyle that they desire. This skill is essential for building strong relationships with clients, as it shows that the hairdresser is paying attention and truly cares about their clients satisfaction.

Having the ability to listen also helps hairdressers to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in hair styling so that they can provide their clients with the latest styles and advice. it assists them when communicating with other styling professionals, allowing them to stay connected and informed about new products and techniques. Listening is an essential skill for any successful hairdresser, as it helps them to provide the best services for their clients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What is your experience in the hair industry?
What is the most creative hairstyle you have ever created?
How do you stay current on new trends and styling techniques?
What type of customer service do you provide?
Are you comfortable using all types of hair products and tools?
How do you handle difficult clients or situations?
What is your experience with coloring, cutting and styling hair?
How do you keep a clients hair in good condition between appointments?
How do you ensure that all clients are safe while in your care?
Are you comfortable working with different hair textures and ethnicities?

Common Tools in Industry

Hair Dryer. A tool used to dry hair after washing. (eg. A professional-grade hair dryer with multiple heat and speed settings)
Hair Clippers. A tool used to cut hair. (eg. A set of clippers with various attachments for different lengths and styles)
Hair Straightener. A tool used to straighten hair. (eg. A flat iron with adjustable temperature settings)
Hair Curler. A tool used to curl hair. (eg. A curling wand with adjustable heat settings)
Hair Brush. A tool used to brush and style hair. (eg. A paddle brush with boar bristles)
Hair Scissors. A tool used to trim and shape hair. (eg. Professional-grade hair scissors with a sharp, durable blade)
Hair Pins. A tool used to hold hair in place. (eg. Hair pins made of durable metal with a secure grip)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of Cosmetology Schools
Professional Beauty Association
International Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Alliance
National Cosmetology Association
Beauty Changes Lives Foundation
National Hairdressers & Cosmetologists Association
The Hairdressers Guild of Great Britain
Fellowship for British Hairdressing
International Hairdressing Council
World Wide Hair & Beauty Professionals Alliance

We also have Tanning Technician, Cosmetologist, and Manicure/Pedicure Specialist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Haircutting. The act of cutting hair, usually done by a professional hairdresser.
Hair Styling. The act of styling and arranging hair into a particular look, usually accomplished with the help of a hairdresser.
Hair Color. The selection and application of a hair color, usually done by a professional hairdresser.
Hair Treatments. The application of treatments to the hair, such as conditioners, toners, and masks, to improve the health and appearance of the hair.
Hair Extensions. The addition of extra length or volume to the hair, usually done with artificial hair or hair pieces.
Hair Removal. The removal of excess or unwanted hair, usually done with shaving, waxing, or laser treatments.
Barber. A professional who specializes in cutting mens hair.
Salons. A business that provides hairstyling services to clients.
Hair Products. Products used to care for, style, and maintain the hair, such as shampoos, conditioners, gels, mousse, and hairspray.
Hair Accessories. Items used to hold or adorn the hair, such as combs, brushes, clips, and headbands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of a haircut at a hairdresser?

The average cost of a haircut at a hairdresser is typically between $30-$50.

How long does a typical hair appointment last?

A typical hair appointment lasts between 30-90 minutes, depending on the type of service requested.

What are the most popular hair styling services offered at a hairdresser?

The most popular hair styling services offered at a hairdresser are haircuts, coloring, highlighting, balayage, and curling/straightening.

What tools and products do hairdressers use?

Hairdressers typically use scissors, combs, curling irons, and blow dryers, as well as various styling and hair care products such as shampoo, conditioner, and styling gels.