CAREER ADVICE

Cosmetology 

Are you a creative, visual person who also has a sense of flair?  Those are just some of the adjectives that describe the type of person who might excel in a career that continues to change.  The cosmetology field is one that is part technical, part creative and one where the stylist has the ability to be versatile. 

What are some of the work functions of the person in the cosmetology career?  Naturally they include shampooing, cutting and styling hair, but there are other specialties that the career includes.  For example, the cosmetologist advises his or her client on how to care for their hair, offers suggestions for color tones, give manicures, pedicures, facial treatments, perms and hair color treatments.  They may also apply makeup and clean and style wigs and hairpieces.  

Cosmetologists obtain their expertise through education, and they must be licensed by the State of Iowa.  To achieve a cosmetology license, an individual must receive 2,100 hours of education after which they must pass the State Cosmetology Boards.  It is not uncommon for new graduates to work in a ‘fast service salon’ for a period right after graduation.  Additional, advanced training of six months to one year is recommended to work at full-service salons.  This additional training is done through an apprenticeship program at many salons.  Locally, in Cedar Rapids, City Looks Salons require a six-month apprenticeship program.  During the apprenticeship program, mentors, who are experienced cosmetologists, work with the apprentice to offer tips, help and advice so that the apprentice can excel in the profession.  Practitioners also attend frequent workshops throughout their careers at which the latest in techniques and products are demonstrated. 

This is one career where it is a must to enjoy working with the public. In addition to technical skills, ‘people’ skills are essential.  Important characteristics include keen listening and communication skills.  Cosmetologists must ask leading questions to learn what the client wants, listen carefully to the client’s stated needs, and then be able to offer suggestions on how to achieve the result the customer wants.  Often the cosmetologist will recommend products that can help produce the desired effect in hair, skin and nail care.

Mariam Hannon, specializes in spa services at City Looks Salon.  Ms. Hannon finds this specialty is rewarding because she is helping her clients take control of their relaxation and self care.  Ms. Hannon says, “I know the work that I do in the Spa, whether that is doing a facial, body wrap, hydrotherapy soak or pedicure, is a very effective treatment that allows the client the ability to achieve intense relaxation.  The body slows.  The mind slows.  The body’s systems run more efficiently and, therefore, more healthy, once relaxed.”  She said the rewards—personal, professional and financial—are hard to beat.

Ms. Barb Fassbinder of City Looks has been in the business for 16 years and has found that working in the cosmetology industry is rewarding in more ways that one.  She said “The rewards are endless, not only personally but financially as well.”  She has recently started down a new path in the industry.  She is now an in-salon educator and trainer.  Ms. Fassbinder said “I can help others reach their goals and have success in their careers.  This is very rewarding to me.” 

Cosmetologists should expect to work 40 hours per week with work schedules that include evenings and weekends, the times when salons can be the busiest.  Good health and physical stamina are required because workers are on their feet a good portion of the day.  Some chemicals used for nail and hair treatment may cause irritation, so proper care must be taken.

According to City Looks Salon, the earnings for professionals are very good.  New graduates can expect to earn approximately $20,000 and plan to earn approximately $60,000 once their expertise and client base builds.  According to the “Occupational Outlook Handbook” which is a publication of the U.S. Government, the job outlook is excellent due to the growing demand for cosmetology services.  Workers in salons often receive paid vacations and medical benefits. 

Mr. David Evans, President of City Looks Salon and Spa, sums it up this way.  To be successful in the hairstyling business, one must

• Have good self-confidence
• Be perceptive of the needs of others and how to connect with them
• Be able to communicate with people of all ages
• Have manual dexterity
• Have a feel for style and proportion
• Desire to grow professionally—well past the initial education process
• Have self-discipline to maintain focus on being the best
• Understand other people as you may some day be in a managerial position.

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