9 mins
CHOOSE YOUR PATH
WE BREAK DOWN THE DIFFERENT CAREER PATHS IN THE SALON, THE SKILLS YOU NEED AND WHERE IT COULD TAKE YOU
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. Show this to someone who needs to see it…
ASSISTANT/JUNIOR
Working as an assistant, you will learn some of the most vital skills needed for your career, no matter what pathway you have in mind. “You need to enjoy working with others,” 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 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. “Take advantage of professional virtual seminars and Instagram Lives,” adds Irene. “Most brands offer in-salon education, so get involved as much as possible.”
LEE NUNN, SENIOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR, SASSOON MANCHESTER
“I began my journey with Sassoon at 14, starting in Leeds. 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, 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 a 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.”
TOP TIPS
1 “Don’t rush your progression – I wish I had spent more time enjoying the learning process.”
Jo Robertson, Education Director at Wonderful Brand
2 “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
3 “Continue to learn – this is a craft that changes quickly.”
Irene Meikle, Associate Director of Education at Goldwell
SENIOR
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 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 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.”
LET’S BREAK IT DOWN
• SENIOR HAIRDRESSER: Should have an extensive knowledge of a wide range of technical services 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.
Marie Nieuwoudt - Group Education Manager at Cloud Nine
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.
Dot Hair, Liverpool
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.”
“I WAS FORTUNATE TO HAVE MANAGERS WHO GAVE ME OPPORTUNITIES. I WOULD REQUEST FEEDBACK AND USE THE INFORMATION TO ASSESS MY SUCCESS, AREAS FOR DEVELOPMENT AND PROGRESS.”
TOP TIPS
1 “Remember you’re never too young to take on a challenge. Continuous improvement is key and the best learning experiences come from mistakes.”
Phill Gallagher, Dot Hair, Liverpool
2 “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
3 “Learn your product line inside out and focus on your people skills.”Victoria Wiltshire, Hair Lounge Barnstaple, Devon
4 “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
COURSE WATCH
Maximising the performance of any salon team takes carefully honed skills. Wella Professionals Managing Performance is a one-day course aimed at salon owners and managers and explores setting realistic targets across the whole business to get maximum results for the whole team. It covers career path development and the importance of rewarding exceptional performance, and is perfect for all managers, team leaders and business owners who are responsible for a team. Running across various dates throughout 2025 at the Wella Studios in London, Manchester, Dublin and Edinburgh.
To book, head to education.wella.com or call your nearest studio.
POINTS TO PROGRESS
1 “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
2 “Take the plunge and trust in yourself – be prepared with a clear vision. It’s incredible to watch your vision take shape.”
Lola Skelton, Salon Director at Francesco Hair, Eccleshall
SALON OWNER
“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. “A power ful blend of technical, managerial, and interpersonal skills is vital,” says Rio Agor-Watts, Group Education Manager UKI at Revlon Professional. “For example, leadership, team building, financial management, time management, problem-solving, communication, adaptability and integrity.”
“THERE ARE MANY EDUCATION COURSES FOR NEW SALON OWNERS, THE MORE YOU PREPARE, THE BETTER.”
Richard Ashforth
EDUCATOR
Being an educator requires a unique skill set. “You need a great understanding of hair mixed with strong communication skills and the ability to teach and inspire a variety of learners,” Sarah Dixon, Key Account Educator for ghd, tells us. “As well as being social savvy!” Being 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 to help develop your own teaching techniques.”
COURSE WATCH
evo will launch new creative courses from February. Choose from super stylin’, creative cutting, creative colour (lightening), and creative colour (placement). Reach out to your local evo distributor to learn more.
”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. Keep an eye on ASK Academy for the course lineup, 2025 is going to be packed with exciting opportunities!”
Daniel Granger, educator
PREP IS KEY!
Preparing to open your own salon is something you shouldn’t take lightly. When it comes to education, Rio breaks down the essential courses and programmes that you should consider… Plus, keep your eyes peeled for the courses coming up in 2025 from Revlon Professional!
HAIRDRESSING QUALIFICATIONS BUSINESS EDUCATION FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA CUSTOMER SERVICE & PUBLIC SPEAKING LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT HEALTH & SAFETY CONTINUING EDUCATION
PRODUCT AMBASSADOR
A product ambassador can expect to have roles including creating content, PR launches and events, 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, and be authentic.” 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!
evo
CLICK THE QR CODE TO SEE OUR FEATURE '12 HAIRDRESSING CAREERS THAT DON’T INVOLVE WORKING IN A SALON'
COURSE WATCH
GOLDWELL
Goldwell Master Colorist Color Specialist
A series of seminars that makes your colour stand out. Become an expert in achieving bespoke colour through client consultations, unique formulations and colour choices.
When: Various dates available
Head to: www.ksd.events/courses
MY NEW HAIR
Join the charity at the L’Oréal Professionnel Academy in wig styling courses for people suffering from cancer and medical hair loss.
• My New Hair Level 1
When: 10 March 2025 / 21 July 2025
• My New Hair Level 2
When: 23 June 2025 / 1 October 2025
SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL
ASK eAcademy
The Ask eAcademy is your personalised online learning platform bringing you on demand tutorials, inspiring interviews, and industry insights, all with the flexibility to learn on your own schedule.
Register for free and head to www.eacademy.schwarzkopfprofessional.com/gb/en/welcome.html to get started
L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL
L’Oréal Professionnel Colour Keys 1 - £240
Learn the fundamental knowledge of how hair colour works. This one-day course includes health and safety, natural bases and undercoats and white hair coverage. It will also offer knowledge on numbering systems, permanent and demi-permanent colour.
When: One-day + online from various dates starting in January 2025.
SASSOON
ABC+ Cut 2-Day - £688
The ABC+ Cut course equips learners with a versatile repertoire of modern techniques. Learn methods like reverse layering, reverse graduation, disconnection, and freehand with classic Sassoon techniques.
Where: Manchester
When: 8 June 2025