BUILDING YOUR PROFILE

In the dynamic world of hairdressing, establishing a strong personal brand in 2024 is crucial for success, explains Chris Foster

By focusing on effective marketing strategies, hairdressers can enhance their visibility and reputation in a competitive industry. Here’s how…

1 Leverage Social Media for Personal Branding

Utilise social media platforms, not just as a showcase for your work, but as a funnel leading to your personal branding website. This approach helps in creating a cohesive and professional online presence, where potential clients and collaborators can fully appreciate your style, expertise, and unique value proposition.

HJ'S TIP: Aim to add a call to action to posts, a website link in your bio, and if appropriate a direct email address that potential collaborators can contact you on.

2 Build a Community with Creative Collaborations

Networking is key. Connect with professionals outside the hairdressing sphere, like fashion stylists, photographers, and make-up artists. Collaborating with these creatives opens doors to their networks, increasing your exposure and opportunities for innovative projects. This cross-industry networking enriches your portfolio with diverse experiences.

HJ'S TIP: Join Facebook groups, get on trade magazine panels and show willingness to demonstrate at industry events.

3 Focus on Up-and-Coming Hair Competitions

Strategically participate in rising hair competitions. This not only hones your skills but also puts your work in the spotlight, garnering attention from industry peers and potential clients. Success in these competitions can significantly boost your profile and credibility.

HJ'S TIP: There’s multiple competitions for every stage of a career – including more entry level social media, phone-only photographic competitions, so get involved!

4 Knowledge Share through Blogging and Social Media

Share your expertise through various platforms like blogs, YouTube videos, and social media posts. This approach establishes you as a knowledgeable industry leader. Consistently delivering valuable content keeps your audience engaged and attracts new followers, enhancing your professional reputation.

HJ'S TIP: Why not start a YouTube Shorts series? The platform rolled out six new features in 2023 such as the ability to go live with Shorts, remix footage, add effects to videos and use stickers.

5 Create Knowledge-Based Products

Develop educational materials like e-books or short courses. Offering these resources positions you as an expert in your field. It not only adds a revenue stream but also further solidifies your status as a knowledgeable and skilled professional in the hairdressing industry.

HJ'S TIP: Write out a 5 year plan of how you want to present your knowledge to the industry. You might not be ready to start offering courses right now, but maybe you could get a group of peers together and have a knowledge sharing session to hone your educating skills?

Implementing these strategies in 2024 will not only bolster your professional profile but also ensure sustained growth and recognition in the everevolving world of hairdressing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chris Foster, aka The Profile Guy specialises in marketing for hair and beauty professionals and crafting digital profiles that attract opportunities. With over 30 years’ experience in the industry, Chris has worked as a men’s specialist and session stylist heading up global creative teams for leading fashion brands. Visit www.theprofileguy.com