By: Aysia Sylvia
Reaching the end of your cosmetology education can be a bit overwhelming and scary. Where do I start? Who will help and support me? It can seem like you're "thrown to the wolves"-literally! You feel alone and vulnerable and wonder, "What have I gotten myself into?!".
Learning Yourself
Working in a salon is where you will find yourself and learn about what kind of stylist you are. Exploring and understanding all facets of hair takes time, so enjoy the ride. Discover things you never knew you liked, or things that you want to specialize in/favor more than others. Of course, you will make mistakes, but you will learn from them. Every stylist I have met, myself included, has made mistakes, and that's okay. Whether it's behind the chair or not, that is life, and that is how you will grow both professionally and personally. Over time you will gain confidence, make a mistake, try again, and then succeed!
Finding A Home
When applying for your first salon job, talk to your teachers and other students to find the best fit for you. Their feedback is essential since they've worked with you for months and will steer you in the right direction. Find an area you excel in and decide whether it is a commission/rental position behind the chair or assisting for a few months until you feel comfortable. You want to make sure you are doing what is best for you financially and mentally. Finding a salon that fits you, both economically and culturally, will help motivate you. Be excited to go to work and be "all in." That is the best feeling ever! It may take a few interviews to find the salon for you. Make sure you are asking the salon owner as many questions as you can so you can understand what you're getting yourself into, and so down the road, you don't find yourself searching for a new home.
Become Who You Are To Become
It can feel intimidating when meeting new clients for the first time, especially when they know you are new to the industry. You have to realize that you are the stylist, you went through cosmetology school and earned your license just like every other stylist. You have to start somewhere, right?! You may not have much experience, but you are still a professional. Learning is forever so... Shine my sisters and brothers! Shine... and never let them see you sweat... :)
"Stay confident, stay invested in your craft, and chase your dreams!"
XOXO,
@Slayedbyays