6 Ways to make an Impact in this Industry

Being a student/new professional can be scary in this industry. You’re constantly asking yourself “Am I good enough?”, “Am I going to make it?”, “How can I make an impact and set myself apart?” or even “What path in this industry do I want to take?”.

We reached out to some of our #HairNerdBesties and asked their advice on the subject. No matter what path in this industry you take – working behind the chair, glamming up models/celebes or traveling the globe to teach like-minded #hairnerds… it really came down to one thing. Believe in yourself and always BE KIND!

Below is advice from six different avenues (of many) in this indusrty about ways that you can make a place for yourself. This industry is big enough for us all and with the passion to push forward to your dreams and a little good advice, we know you’ll make it.

1. Be Kind

Aubry Loots – Global Educator

@LootyPics

“In Hairdressing your skill set is only part of what’s important,  what’s equally important is how you treat people and how make someone feel. It is something that I hold in high regard and this practice has afforded me many opportunities in my career around the world”

2. Always Push Yourself

Brandon Liberati – Celebrity Stylist

@BrandonLiberati

“Being a great hairstylist is more than just doing good hair. To be great in the industry it also takes listening, always being a student, pushing yourself out of your box, losing the ego, being kind to eveyone you come in contact with (not just your clients), and most importantly trust. My mentor left me with some great words of wisdom… “You are only as good as your last haircut/color”. Remember this and you will constantly push yourself to be better and be humble.”

3. Make connections that lead to opportunities

Kelly Peach – Editorial Stylist

@KellyPeachBeauty

“When becoming an editorial stylist my best advice is to reach out to
different photographers. Let them know you are building your portfolio
and would love to work with them. You may not here back from some, but
putting the word out there will help both your network and your
confidence. Also, always be kind to everyone you work with. You never
know when your paths will cross again and what opportunities that
could lead too.”

4. Focus, Pay & Save!

Janine Jarman – Salon Owner

@HairroinSalonLA / @HairroinSalonNYC

“Pace your self it’s a journey not a race.  Get to great one thing at a time by focusing. And at the end of the day it’s the return and over all client satisfaction that makes for a successful stylist . It take humility and continued effort to not be a flash in the pan. Oh and pay your taxes… and save 20% of your income… and buy property all so u can retire one day”

5. Have a clear path for yourself

Cassandra McGlaughlin – Hairstylist (former assistant)

@CassandraPlatinum

“Assisting is great to help build confidence! It’s so important to find a salon or stylist that matches your aesthetic (or the type of hair you want to do-whatever makes more sense). My 2 years of assisting set the tone for the rest of my career, I learned formulation, dialogue and how to develop strong client relationships. Be sure to find a salon that system for mentoring young stylists so you have a realistic expectation of how long you’ll be assisting. This will help to set goals so that you transition easily from assistant to stylist. Be sure to be clear about your wants and needs from your mentors and in turn be willing to give your best everyday.”

6. Make the time

Molly Gower – Cosmetology Student

@MollyRyanBeau

“We own our time. We can use our time for what we prioritize. But we shouldn’t just prioritize our obligations. You want to do something? Do it. You “don’t have time?” Make time. Even if you have to cut something out. Life is short. Use time here to chase your inspiration. Take on another client. Attend a class. Put yourself and your needs first, and bring people you love with you along the way. If WE are happy, our client will be happy while they’re in our chair.”

Even a #CosmoBaby knows making an impact in the future starts with a today your devoting to YOU. Make the time now to put in the work to have a future of making an impact. And always remember… The Hair Nerds are here for you too. Good advice is just a click away…