It takes a special kind of person to get into hairdressing, which is one aspect of cosmetology and in these days of entrepreneurism here in Australia, there are quite a few freelance hairdressers/stylists who have their own customer bases. If you are looking to style hair for a living, we advise you to go fully mobile – you visit the customer, not the other way around – and there are many benefits to operating a mobile service.
There are two ways to become a certified hairdresser/stylist.
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Salon apprenticeships
One of the best ways to gain the valuable work experience you need to call yourself a ‘stylist’ is to work at a hair salon as an apprentice. The deal involves working under supervision, learning from qualified and experienced hair stylists, which is the chosen path for many young Australians and 2-3 years would be considered adequate to learn the ropes. As well as this essential work experience, you would also need to take at least one course, such as the Hairdressing Certificate III (SHB30416), which you can learn at one of the many Registered Training Organisations. Of course, you will need to invest in top-rated tools such as a blow out brush and a set of cutting scissors.
Certificate III in Hairdressing (SHB30416)
This is a full-time course lasting for 18 months, with two full days of studying on campus and one day of online learning.
The curriculum includes the following:
- Theory of cutting hair and hair design.
- Modern & traditional hair designs.
- Bleach, colour and highlighting techniques.
- Creative hair design.
- The fundamentals of hair care and scalp treatment.
- Shoulder, neck and head massage.
- Salon services and training.
- Salon health & safety.
- Product safety.
Most people choose to work as an apprentice, while also taking the Certificate III (SHB30416), which covers the theory and such an apprenticeship would be for 18 months to 2 years. Click here for tips on styling hair on your wedding day.
Skillsets required for hairdressing
The following talents will help you on your quest to become a top hair stylist.
- Passionate about hair styling – If you have a passion for hair styling, this will stand you in good stead.
- Excellent communication – You need to be able to communicate effectively with your clients.
- Attention to detail – Attention to detail makes a hair stylist; knowing the many techniques and when to apply them.
- Creativity – Your creativity will be called upon every time you work; whether working on a client or updating your portfolio.
- Time management – Of course, you must be able to manage your time effectively.
- Business skills – Just like any other business, your hairdressing career needs marketing, while all transactions must be recorded.
You will also need untold amounts of energy and you will be on your feet for many hours a day, which means you need to have a degree of physical stamina.
Here is some useful information from the Australian Hairdressing Council, which will help you to prepare for your new career.
