How to make the most of your hairdressing job

So you've qualified as a hairdresser and you really love the salon that you work in, but you still want a little more out of your job; this section of the Take Control of Your Career special is for you.

How to get a pay rise

Jackie Arnold

Jackie is director of Coach4executives as well as an associate coach for the Leadership Foundation for Higher Education, delivering one-to-one and group coaching. Her latest book, Coaching for Leaders in the Workplace, is used as a course book for coaching and mentoring qualifications.

Find out more: www.coach4executives.com

"If you are satisfied with the work you have done and feel that the time has come for a pay rise, then do not hesitate to ask. The messages this sends are: 'I have worked hard, achieved what I consider to be valuable and now I would like some appreciation.'

"Many people do not take this vital step for fear of failure. However, if you ask for a pay rise you will come across as someone with good decision-making skills and who feels confident in their own ability." 

The first impression is vital. Before entering the room prepare as follows:

• Gather some examples of your recent work or specific achievements.
• If these have contributed to increased revenue/custom/improved conditions - say so.
• Practise breathing deeply from the diaphragm to calm your nerves.
• Stand tall and walk into the room confidently.
• Smile and show that you are expecting a positive outcome.
• Make sure you have rehearsed your opening remarks. 
• Ask the boss if he/she has noticed your recent achievements and how these may have impacted on the company/department."

How to get promoted

Dale Rockell

Dale is a life coach and motivational speaker, with 20 years' experience as a brand manager in the private sector. He is also the founder of the Stress Free coaching programme, promoting personal, social and emotional development in education.

Find out more: www.dalerockell.com

"Ultimately, promotion is about your employer's requirements and business objectives, especially in the current economic climate. By promoting you, what is your employer getting that will enhance the business?

"However, promotion is also an opportunity for you to grow and develop, acquire new skills and build confidence. You may not know everything needed for the position, yet your employer has seen signs of your potential. And, yes, it may include a financial gain."

 

Here are some thoughts to consider about promotion;

• Don't expect promotion just because you're next in line.
• Why do you want a promotion - outside of financial gain?
• What benefits have you brought to the business so far?
• What will you bring to the business in the new role?
• How much effort are you prepared to give and what are your ambitions?

How to go from junior to stylist

Freya Haines

Freya is the current HJ's Junior of the Year, sponsored by Fudge, at HJ's British Hairdressing Business Awards. She has recently become a hair designer at the Clipso salon in London.

"To gain promotion from junior to fully fledged stylist you need to stay grounded and be open to learning opportunities. Focus all your energy on making your clients feel fantastic every time - consistency is key. Enjoy yourself and stay confident and relaxed as your clients will feel the same and they'll keep coming back."

How to raise your profile

Seven Suphi

Seven is a behavioural change specialist and leadership expert. She has published two books; More Than Men & Make-Up: Empowering You to Achieve Success & Happiness, and Authentic Catalyst: Fast Track to Behavioural Change. Most recently, she presented the TV series, The Naked Office.

Find out more: www.sevensuphi.com

"There is no big secret for raising your profile - it's actually surprisingly simple. When you do things that get people to notice you, or to talk or write about you, then you are raising your profile. That's it!

"What you do depends on what's important to you and your business. Have a list and refer to it on an ongoing basis."

Consider the following recommendations:

• Be exceptional at what you do. If you provide a brilliant service, surpassing your clients' expectations, they will talk positively about you.
• Get feedback from your clients. Find out how they heard about you, and what their expectations were - as well as what you can do additionally to raise them. You could have a suggestion or feedback box with a prize draw, or just ask them what they love about your service, as well as what they would change to make it even better.
• Provide offers that are win-win for you and your clients - for example, a family and friends discount offer, or a loyalty card.
• Hold your own events, or get involved in those going on in your community. They could be with other businesses, purely social, or charitable.
• Take advantage of technology and the internet and see what others are doing to develop their businesses. Also, visit online marketing tool sites for salons like inaa.com; onlinebookingsgroup.com; ukhairdressers.com and www.hairandbeautyappointments.com

How to dress to express

Audrey Hanna

Audrey is an image consultant at style consultancy Colour Me Beautiful

Find out more: www.colourmebeautiful.co.uk

"The way you dress should be a reflection of your personality, and should also take into account the brand values of the salon and the style personality of your target clientele."

We have identified six style personalities:

• Dramatic is fashion-focused and makes an impact.
• Creative doesn't follow trends but stays ahead of them, and will have a different look every time.
• Romantic is a girly girl, loves pampering, make-up and jewellery, and spends a lot of time getting ready.
• Natural - likes to keep things comfortable and simple; prefers no-fuss with minimum styling.
• Classic has a traditional look, which she doesn't change very often, so she can sometimes look dated.
• City chic tends to go for simple, stylish hairstyles. She spends more time on her hair than the classic, and makes sure her style is up to date.

"These six personality types will help you to figure out the client's style, and enables you to pair the right stylist with the right client."

Other Take Control of your Career topics: Skills that benefit yo ur personal and professional life | How to kick-start your career | How to add more strings to your bow

Looking for a change of Job? There are 100s of hairdressing vacancies on the HJi jobsite.