If you know anything about the beauty industry, then you know that trends here often seem to change faster than seasons. Luckily, for anyone who wants to become a cosmetologist, the foundations of success remain timeless. In Illinois, just like in most other states in the country, you want to ensure you’re not only licensed to work as a cosmetologist but also well-equipped to get ahead and remain there.
Whether you’re fresh out of cosmetology school or a seasoned stylist looking for growth, the following success tips will help you achieve this goal.
1. Choose the Right Cosmetology School
Choosing the right school for your cosmetology training can set you on the right path to success by equipping you with the knowledge, skills, and connections you need to grow in the industry. It’s best to look for a training provider that offers comprehensive education in all aspects of cosmetology, whether that’s hair cutting, makeup application, hair coloring, or skincare.
Make sure to verify the school’s accreditations and do enough research to ensure it has a solid reputation in the industry.
2. Keep Learning
As previously mentioned, this is one of the fastest-growing industries; thus, you must put in the effort to keep up with the trends and techniques that keep emerging all the time. Besides, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) expects all cosmetologists to complete 14 hours of Illinois cosmetology license renewal education every two years.
These continuing education courses keep you informed about newer safety standards, sanitation practices, and evolving industry trends. Such elements are essential in maintaining both compliance and credibility. So, if you want to retain your clients, reputation, and income, make sure to renew your licence on time.
3. Ensure You Learn From the Best
One of the greatest mistakes that many cosmetologists make is thinking they can learn from anyone and just be fine. However, with the competition and uncertainties of this industry, you must ensure that you learn from the best. So, get mentors and role models who inspire you to be the best and can provide you with valuable insights and advice.
Also, consider attending as many industry events, trade shows, and workshops as you can. In these, you will have the chance to network with so many professionals who have made it to the top, and some may be willing to offer a tip or two on how to get there and even be better.
4. Let Your Main Focus Be on Top-Notch Customer Service
Cosmetology is one of the industries where your business is defined mainly by the kind of customer service you offer. Your goal, therefore, shouldn’t just be to offer high-quality services, but great customer service overall. Be intentional about developing strong relationships with your customers by making sure your services are personalized and that you’re attentive through it all.
Listen, advise, and educate. Where applicable, ask thoughtful questions about a client’s lifestyle so you can recommend the most fitting services. Also, inquire about their maintenance preferences and comfort with change so you know whether you’re on the right path. Always follow up after major transformations, as this promotes satisfaction and instigates long-term relationships.
5. Approach It With a Business Mindset
You’d be very wrong if you did your best to offer outstanding services, but you don’t do it in a way that inspires you to become better and grow. In this industry, the most recommended way to find growth isn’t to find a better salon to work in. It’s starting your own! And if you want to take this direction, you must make your business acumen as strong as your artistic ability.
You, therefore, must put in the effort to understand correct pricing (depending on the quality of service), taxes, budgeting, marketing, and all the other factors of running a successful business. Go the extra mile by learning the basics of small business management through local resources like the Illinois Small Business Development Centre (SBDC) or online entrepreneurship courses.
Where possible, leverage tech tools to manage appointments, inventory, and customer relationships. You want your business to run as fluidly and effortlessly as possible so you can focus more on delivering a lovely experience.
Take the First Step Today
Success as an Illinois cosmetologist may sound like an impossible feat, but you must believe it’s possible if you want to achieve it. And the truth is that it’s not just about mastering scissors and brushes.
That’s why your education must go beyond the basics. It must cover the less-mentioned topics, while being easy and fun to learn, and that’s what you get at RocketCert. So, if you’re ready to take your very first step to success, head over to rocketcert.com today to see what they have in store for you.
