Careers in Cosmetology:

There are many careers that can be pursued with a career in cosmetology. The professions below are just a small portion of what you can really do with careers in the arts.

Salon Stylist:

A salon stylist is usually the first step in a cosmetology career. This entry level position is where all the salon services are performed. Reception duties such as booking appointments, customer service and up-selling products and services may be other duties in your job description. This is the time in your career to start building a lucrative clientele. Stylists are always in demand at resorts, spas and on cruise ships if you want a higher level of excitement in your career.

Color Specialist:

If you have a flair for color, then this is the position for you. Color specialists help choose the best color, shade and tone for their client. These experts use their magic to formulate the right hue and dimension based on their client’s skin shade and eye color. In today’s market, there is an increasing demand for color specialists. Color correction is also a large part of the industry. Perfect this skill and you won’t have an empty spot on your daily calendar.

Salon Manager:

Salon Managers are usually responsible for the daily operations of running the salon. This includes retail ordering, bookkeeping, scheduling, hiring new stylists as well as many other day to day duties. The salon manager is really the salon owner’s right hand because they are behind the chair and behind the desk. This is a great position for an individual that enjoys multi tasking and coordinating people in a happy work environment.

Salon Owner:

To some people, this is the ultimate goal, or part of the American Dream. This is your real time to shine, you are your own boss, set your own prices and have the salon or day spa of your dreams. Although this is a challenge, it is quite often a rewarding one at the end of the day when you can turn the lights off and enjoy your success.

Platform Artist:

A platform artist is a true expert. These artists showcase their skills and talents to the professional cosmetologist. Some work in the salon during the day, but on the weekends, they travel to local or national hair shows to educate other professionals with up and coming trends and techniques. Other platform artists are employed full-time with various beauty product companies as well. This is an excellent profession if you enjoy and have a flair for teaching.

Session Stylist:

Session stylists work on styling hair and make-up photo shoots. They can work on television, movie and theatre sets as well. This type of work requires patience, people skills and an undying passion and energy for the profession as these services lead to one long and rewarding day.

Retail Specialist:

Sales are all about communication. It is fact that at least half of a salon stylist’s income is from retail sales. We all know that the products we use on our hair are just as important as the condition of the hair we are styling. If you can let your client know what they need in order to achieve their desired style, this may be the right spot for you. Retail specialists are very knowledgeable on all the beauty products out there and even have the opportunities to work with national companies.

Cosmetology Instructor:

As there will always be a demand for cosmetologists, there will be a demand for cosmetology instructors. This is a position where you can share the knowledge and expertise that you have acquired over the years. This type of work takes a certain individual, one that is patient, compassionate and driven. You are shaping the next generation of the world’s hair, skin and nail artists.

Writer:

If you have a way with words, this is an option for you. Writers with a background in cosmetology can write and contribute to magazine columns and books. This is a great way to intermingle all the skills that you have acquired over the years. Writers can even produce television and commercial spots, work in public relations and advertising for color and cosmetic companies. Writing and cosmetology are two professions that go very well together.

More:

Some other professions include Make-up Artists, Nail Technicians, Day Spa Technicians and Skin Care Specialists. It is important to always continue to grow as a cosmetologist and be open to new techniques and ideas. Check your local beauty supply distributors for continuing education classes in your area to keep new and fresh. You also have the opportunity to become a member of the National Cosmetologist Association (NCA) which offers classes on a seasonal basis.