Finding Your First Salon

VOLUME 2

Once you 've earned your cosmetology license, you 'll be eager to get work. You can start your search for the right salon even before you finish beauty school: visit salons, evaluate their locations, appearance and professional services. Once you 've done research and come up with a list of salons you would like to work for, you 're ready to move on to the next phase -- getting in the door and impressing the salon with your professionalism.

Do's

Visit the salon personally.

One of the best ways to get noticed by the salon of your dreams (and get an interview) is to simply walk in.

Dress professionally and bring a resumé.

This will immediately communicate to the salon that you are a serious candidate. Politely ask the receptionist if it would be possible to speak to the owner or manager for a few minutes about the possibility of a position in the salon.

Greet everyone with a smile, a handshake and a short introduction.

If someone comes forward to talk to you about a job, hand them your resumé and tell them you're interested in working at the salon.

Be prepared.

While the manager might only take your resumé, you may also be asked to interview on the spot. Because you did your research, you already know about the salon and may have questions about working there. You'll want to ask about job responsibilities, continuing education opportunities, the dress code, possibilities for advancement based on your professional performance, and employee benefits.

Don'ts

Don't depend on "want ads", or mailing your resumé.

Salons might not be actively hiring at that time, but if a professional-looking candidate visits, they might be interested in learning more about you.

Don't treat your visit casually.

When visiting a salon, make a good first impression. Dress professionally, with clean, neat hair and makeup, and fresh breath.

Don't view anyone as unimportant.

From the receptionist to the stylists to the manager, everyone will be judging your potential as a future employee. Smile, be friendly and polite to everyone you see and meet.

Don't walk in without knowing the salon.

Ideally, you have already learned as much as you can about this salon, including information like services offered, retail lines and how long they have been in business. Also, you should be prepared with additional questions you have about the salon. All this will help convince a future employer that you're well prepared, professional and serious about working in that salon.