The passion for ongoing education burns like a fire in every brilliant stylist, and access to it is often the greatest concern – after keeping the taxman happy – for most freelancers. But gone are the days when independents were denied their basic need for inspiration and struggled to stay current. Multiple sources, many with 24-hour access, are there for every stylist determined to slay it solo. Here’s a quick glance at where to find them:
Open House
Manufacturers and suppliers no longer shun the self-employed and are now providing copious open and specialist courses freelancers can join. They also post advice and inspiration on their websites, and although these are often gated, many are not, such as Shortcuts’ Handbook for Freelancers – Slaying it Solo, initially published to help its freelance clients but now a must for anyone considering going self-employed.
TV on Tap
Hairdressing has always been a generous industry and a quick surf through YouTube reveals a channel absolutely teeming with pro stylists from all over the world, sharing their tips for great hair. Just try not to stay up scrolling all night!
Those Who Can
The freedom of social and online has allowed those who are smashing it on the freelance circuit to share their knowledge. Specialists like @copperqueen (a Shortcuts favourite) deliver courses in person and online that are easy to access and affordable. Some also provide a subscription service to access a library of content.
Learning by Association
Organisations like the Fellowship often run tours bringing hairdressing stars to a venue near you, while others like Freelance Federation, hold regular events which are open even to non-members. But consider joining; as well as inspirational teaching, associations also provide hours of business and marketing education online.
Join in The Chatter
Social channels have gone beyond entertainment into peer-to-peer learning and support, essential for any hungry stylist determined to stay ahead. Monitoring it throughout the day throws up beautiful work being produced by amazing hairdressers, but there are also the specific channels for freelancers where you can access a support network that will keep you motivated and alive to change.
Keep it Local
Building a local network of like-minded independents isn’t just for assuaging the loneliness of going solo; some groups are banding together and creating their own events to inspire one another, often bringing in major players to deliver on-message, customised content. They are a good excuse to get together for an inspirational natter, but some dynamic independents are also organising away-days to big events like Salon International.
Click here to download the Shortcuts’ Handbook for Freelancers – Slaying it Solo.
