It's been a challenging few years for everyone, whether you're a stylist or salon owner. HOB Academy International Creative Director, Akin Konizi, says we all need to recognise that nothing will be the same as it was in 2019. "Life as we know it has changed – client's habits have changed, the way we run our businesses has been re-evaluated and our priorities have been questioned. Many hairdressers have reconsidered their careers, and some unfortunately have left the industry.
"We know hairdressers are some of the happiest people in their job, but there are many reasons why we fall out of love with our work. Pressures at home as well as the salon, cost of living and a determination to create your own destiny are just a few. But we need to step back and remember why we came into this industry in the first place. There may be challenges and concerns ahead, but this is still an incredible industry to be working in, sometimes we just need to remind ourselves."
So, if you're feeling deflated or thinking about leaving the industry, Akin shares these top tips to remind you why you're a hairdresser and why you love your job:
No Other Job Puts a Smile on Other People's Faces
The importance of self-care and wellbeing is increasing among clients rapidly, and a visit to the salon can raise self-esteem and confidence. How amazing is it that we can have that effect on people with a pair of scissors or a tint brush?
You Can Be As Creative As You Want To Be
Whether it is playing with bright colours or creating beautiful shapes, we get to play with a blank canvas every day. Speaking of hair colour, have you seen Glossed Ink hair?
No Other Industry Is As Sharing as Hairdressers
We love to share our skills, knowledge and thought processes. If you feel you've become a bit stale, speak to your product house who offer a myriad of courses for beginners through to the advanced.
Use Social Media for Good
Come away from the gossip sites and toxic platforms and follow people you aspire to be and who inspire you. Check out their collections, listen to a podcast, or take time out to watch Instagram Lives. Only follow inspiring and uplifting people, and don't get dragged into the nastiness of social media.
Attend Events and Meet People
We have got trapped in a cycle of staying at home but there are lots of industry events happening now where you can meet like-minded people and speak to your hair heroes to boost your confidence. Check out the awards that are coming up. This year's British Hairdressing Business Awards are first up in July, and the British Hairdressing Awards 2024 is in November. Speaking of which, entries are open for both, so be sure to get your entries in.
Remember What Attracted You Into Our Industry
Working with creative, young, energetic, fashionable people in an environment where you can make it whatever you want it to be. A club, a bar, a workplace, it can be all of these things, where you go and meet up with your friends you work with, and your extended friends who come to your work every day to see you there. No other job is sociable as ours. The buzz may be a little muted at the moment, but it will return. Fashion is starting to look up, shorter hairstyles are trending, and we can all express ourselves creatively and socially.
And if you're in need of another little reminder, here are 10 very convincing reasons to be a hairdresser...
