Whenever we speak to anyone in the industry, we’re constantly reminded that hairdressing is one of (if not THE) most rewarding career. In light of the industry recruitment crisis, we wanted to highlight the incredible career opportunities and pathways that a hairdressing salon can give you. Take a read of the different career paths in the salon, the skills you need and where it could take you…
Assistant Hairdresser/Apprentice
Everyone has to start somewhere! Working as an assistant or an apprentice is one of the most exciting times of your career and you will learn some of the most vital skills needed to work your way up, no matter what pathway you have in mind. “You need to enjoy working with others and being around people,” Irene Meikle, Associate Director of Education at Goldwell, tells us. “Engage, have good listening skills, and be open to feedback. Be a sponge and enjoy the learning process.”
The main place of learning at this level is in the salon, so it’s important to watch and learn the interaction between the client and the stylist. “Make sure you perfect your hands on foundation level cutting, styling and colouring,” advises Jo Robertson, Education Director at Wonderful Brands. “If you are confident in the basics, you will breeze through the more technical levels.” But also, it’s about putting the time in. “Self-learning is essential,” adds Irene. “Take advantage of professional virtual seminars and Instagram Lives. Most brands offer in-salon education, so get involved as much as possible.”
Top Tips for Assistant Hairdressers/Apprentices
- “Don’t rush your progression – I wish someone held me back and I spent more time enjoying the learning process.”
Jo Robertson, Education Director at Wonderful Brands - “Try to think of what type of work you want to attract and use social media as your tool. Never underestimate yourself or your ability.”
Leah Hill, Education Manager at Fenty Hair - “Continue to learn – this is a craft that changes and grows quickly.”
Irene Meikle, Associate Director of Education at Goldwell
Speaking of advice, here's all the advice you need on building your first hairdressing kitbag.
Lee Nunn, Senior Creative Director at Sassoon Manchester, Shares his Career Journey
“I began my journey with Sassoon at 14, starting in Leeds on work experience. At 16, I joined the Sassoon Apprenticeship Programme as one of 10 assistants. I spent my first two years working on my NVQ followed by a rigorous final year of training, five days a week, completing both classic and creative hairdressing training. I qualified as a stylist in 2010.
“Over the next six years, I dedicated myself to building my client base and refining my skills on the salon floor. I also collaborated with friends in fashion and photography to expand my technical abilities and grow creatively.
“In 2015, I became Assistant Creative Director in Leeds and shortly transferred to Manchester. This role taught me the importance of cultivating a strong, positive team culture – and showed me what it means to be both good, and at times, a flawed leader.
“In 2018, I advanced to Creative Director of Manchester, and in 2022, I was promoted to Senior Creative Director. Now my role focuses on developing the Manchester team while also representing Sassoon globally through seminars, shoots, and creative projects.”
Senior Hairdresser
The leap to senior hairdresser is different for everyone – “it’s a culmination of elevated trending technical skills, communication, awareness of client needs and being able to meet and surpass expectations both creatively and financially,” explains Marie Nieuwoudt, Group Education Manager at Cloud Nine. And just like junior level, investing in yourself is the way forward. For Lauren Tait, Senior Head Stylist/Technician at Charlie Miller Salon, Holy Corner, watching live seminars is a great way to learn. “It makes me want to be more creative and try new things,” she tells us. “When I can’t attend a show or course, I find L’Oréal Access a fantastic platform for further educating myself and keeping my knowledge at the top of my game.” When it comes to choosing courses, it’s important to “choose courses that excite, challenge and empower you to find career confidence,” Marie adds. “Be open-minded to different types of education. Look at your own style of learning – it’s important to learn what brings you happiness and fulfilment, and what doesn’t.”
The Roles and Responsibilities of a Senior Hairdresser
Senior Hairdresser: Should have an extensive knowledge of a wide range of technical service on all hair types, be proficient in running a column, and have advanced skills in listening and communication.
Senior Stylist – Artistic/Education: May have responsibilities for educating team members in precision hairdressing techniques, creating content for social media, and staying ahead of fashion trends.
Senior Stylist – Management: Assist with recruitment, target setting, may need admin skills, build relationships with suppliers, and good organisational and communication skills.
Top Tips for Senior Hairdressers
- “Remember you’re never too young to take on a challenge. Continuous improvement is key and the best learning experiences come from mistakes.”
Phil Gallagher, Dot Hair, Liverpool - “Get involved in industry events, network with others, learn the business side of hairdressing, and build a personal brand.”
Clare Cartwright, Elysian Hair Looe, Cornwall - “Learn your product line inside out and focus on your people skills.”
Victoria Wiltshire, Hair Lounge Barnstaple, Devon - “Progression starts with clarity – think about what you want from your next chapter. Having a clear vision is essential.”
Amy O’Sullivan, Hair by Amy O’Sullivan, Ireland
I was fortunate to have managers who supported career development and gave me opportunities on different projects. I would request feedback and use the information to assess my success, areas for development, and progress.
Jerome Wilson, Education Manager, HB Collective - The Home of Great Lengths
Salon Manager
As a salon manager, it’s important you demonstrate commitment to both salon owners and team members. “Start by learning the basics,” says Lola Skelton, Salon Director at Francesco Hair, Eccleshall. “Understand every aspect of the business – it’s about adapting to different people and their needs. You need to make sure you’re visible – your team needs to see that you’re there for them.” For Vicky Taylor, Salon Director at Francesco Hair Cheltenham, education courses in management are key. “They offer valuable insights into running a business, giving you the tools needed to manage a salon effectively,” she tells us. “Additionally, courses in customer service, financial management, and leadership can help build your foundational skills.”
Progression Top Tips
- “Absorb as much knowledge as possible from your current salon owner. Develop your own management style, trust your instincts, and listen to your team’s feedback to create a strong and collaborative environment.”
Vicky Taylor, Salon Director at Francesco Hair, Cheltenham - “Take the plunge and trust in yourself – be prepared and have a clear vision. Owning a salon brings new responsibilities, but it’s incredibly fulfilling to watch your own vision take shape.”
Lola Skelton, Salon Director at Francesco Hair, Eccleshall
One thing I love about Schwarzkopf Professional is their commitment to education. There are an incredible variety of courses designed to give you the skills, confidence and creativity to thrive.
Daniel Granger, Educator
Salon Owner
Being a salon owner is not for the faint hearted. “A salon owner needs four arms and a minimum of two heads!” Richard Ashforth, co-founder and Creative Director at SACO tells us. “Any new salon owner will tell you that the learning curve when opening your business is a steep one.” To put it short, multi-tasking is just the start of it. “To thrive as a salon owner, a powerful blend of technical, managerial, and interpersonal skills is vital,” says Rio Agor-Watts. “Some examples of key skills are leadership and team building, customer service, financial management, marketing and networking, time management, technical skills, problem-solving, communication, adaptability, and integrity.”
Preparing to Open Your Salon
Preparing to open your own salon is something you shouldn’t take likely. When it comes to education, Rio breaks down the essential courses and programs that you should consider...
- Hairdressing Qualifications
- Business Education
- Financial Management
- Marketing and Social Media
- Customer Service and Public Speaking
- Leadership and Management
- Health and Safety
- Continuing Education
There are many education courses for new salon owners, the more you prepare, the better.
Richard Ashforth
Educator
Being an educator is another avenue in hairdressing you can explore, but it requires a unique skill set. “You need a great understanding of all things hair mixed with really strong communication skills and the ability to teach and inspire a wide variety of learners,” Sarah Dixon, Key Account Educator for ghd, tells us. “And one of the most important aspects is being social savvy!” When it comes to becoming a hairdressing educator, “formal education can be invaluable,” says Anne Veck. “Courses like the HABC Level 3 Award in Education and Training provide the necessary skills and knowledge.” But it’s thorough preparation that’s key for Anne: “When attending training courses, pay close attention to both the content and the delivery style. This will help you develop your own effective teaching techniques.”
Product Ambassador
A product ambassador can expect to have a variety of roles including creating content, taking part in PR launches and events, working on campaigns, and being an educator. Similarly, there are a number of things that play a big part in being approached as an ambassador for any product brand. “Skill and knowledge, value that you bring to the company itself, and likeability, personality and how marketable you are,” Ky Wilson for evo, tells us. His Advice? “Learn your craft until you can do it in your sleep. Learn how to market and promote yourself. Be authentic to the brands you love as people will see right through if you’re purely doing it for the money!” Don’t be afraid to reach out to brands you love and ask if you can work on any collaborations or campaigns. Put yourself out there!
