How to Find the Right Cosmetology Job
When you've finally completed your cosmetology training and received your certification, you're probably excited about the chance to start using your new skill to make customers beautiful and happy. But getting the wrong job could discourage you from this career and all that it has to offer. It's imperative that you take certain steps toward finding the cosmetology job that is right for you---don't ever accept the first position offered to you without exploring your options.
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Instructions
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Identify your strengths. When you went to cosmetology school, what did your instructors say you had a knack for? Which classes did you get the best grades in, and which ones did you enjoy the most? Then focus on that one specific field within the cosmetology industry, whether it be a career doing nails, hair, makeup, spa treatments or another side of the business.
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Look for an apprenticeship first under someone who works in the cosmetology field that you are interested in and who really knows what he or she is doing on both the business and the beauty side of things. You can do this by visiting salons in your area to inquire about jobs and apprentice programs. Once you see the experienced cosmetologist in action and get a chance to perform the duties on your own, you will get an idea of whether this type of job is right for you.
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Seek help from your cosmetology instructors on the job search. Most cosmetology schools also have apprenticeship and job placement programs to help graduating students find the right job to match their skills.
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Mull over whether owning your own cosmetology business would be the best type of job for you in this field. If you are a strong leader with good financial, organizational and marketing skills this might be the right choice for you. In most cases, you will work for yourself as an independent contractor in the cosmetology field anyway, but you can also open your own shop, store or spa and become the boss. You can choose to perform cosmetology duties as the boss, or simply oversee, train, teach and apprentice for other workers at some point. This choice should be made depending on your experience level in the business (a minimum of three to five years is ideal).
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Tips & Warnings
Put together a portfolio of your work, whether it be for nail design, hair or makeup, including pictures and references, comments and testimonials from people who you have worked on. Photographers are always on the lookout for affordable, independent hair stylists and makeup artists to help at small photo shoots with models. Contact photographers in your area (easy to find on Craigslist) to offer your services for free one time so that they can see your skills. If your hair and makeup look good in photos, you are more likely to be hired back for future shoots. Schmooze with your cosmetology instructors--you want to develop a strong relationship with anyone who can possibly refer you for a job. Many cosmetology instructors operate salons in addition to teaching.
