Thinking about becoming part of the Cosmetology Industry? Be sure to check out this Q&A with a successful Educator & Stylist with the Summit Salon Academy PDX for tips to get the most out of your Beauty Industry Journey!
How long have you been in the Industry? I’ve been in the Industry for almost 10 years, an Educator for 6.
Tell me a little about you.- I’m a part-time Cosmetologist behind the chair and a Full Time Educator at the Best Cosmetology School. When I’m not working, I’m painting, woodworking, playing guitar or just enjoying gatherings with friends. Also, I have a little chihuahua mix that has my heart and I’m slightly obsessed with.
What do you like best about Hair cutting? I personally love watching how hair shape can completely change the way a person looks and Feels. I tend to cut a little more organically so I find it’s more like carving out a sculpture. It can be very transformational for the client and I love to be able to offer that kind of value behind the chair.
What are the benefits of this career? I love this career. You definitely get out of it what you put into it. There’s no glass ceiling. It allows anyone to tap into their creativity and offers plenty of room for innovation. You can genuinely be Yourself!
How do you keep growing as an Artist? Ongoing education is key. In this industry trends and techniques evolve very fast. It’s important that you stay open and allow room for growth.
Tips for getting the most out of school. – Take every service that comes your way. Experience is essential to becoming confident in your craft.
What was your favorite part of Beauty School? I really enjoyed haircutting. I felt that came the most natural to me. And of course, the camaraderie. The relationships that I was fortunate enough to create with educators, staff and students have had such positive effects in my life.
What was the most valuable piece of advice you received or wish you would have received? I think the best advice that I received was the sky’s the limit. You can go as far as you want in this industry. There are so many paths to take, from tv to editorial to consulting, the landscape of the Beauty Industry is immense.
Tips for finding your just right Salon home. – Do a shadow shift if you can. Or go get a service done from somewhere you’re interested in. It’s good to be able to get a snapshot of the culture and atmosphere of the salon. Also I would look at the tenure of a company. If the majority of stylists have been there for a long time then it’s a good chance that the company is run well.
Any other tips or interesting industry tidbits? I would just say to follow current and past trends.
Trends always come back around even if they’re given a different twist. (I’m looking at you wolf cut). It’s also important to stay on top of your social media platforms. This is where a majority of new clientele will come from these days.
Want more information about how to get your Career in the Beauty Industry started? Contact us at Summitsalonacademyportland.com
