Salon Job Search Dos and Don’ts

Owners tell us over and over that they are looking primarily for a good attitude and a willingness to learn. It doesn't matter if you're a born styling genius, if you're not a team player salon owners more than likely will pass on hiring you. So show you're willing to try new things, pitch in to help out, and take the initiative to build your own book.

Don't start your job search without doing a little soul searching.
Spend some time thinking about what you are looking for in a salon, and research salons that meet your needs and desires. Maybe you want to work specifically at an urban salon that offers a lot of educational opportunities and benefits and caters to a funky clientele. Go out and find it! The second part of your preparation should be to write out a list of questions that you want answered about the salon. You may want to know: What makes your salon unique? What programs do you offer? Benefits? Advancement?

Do visit several salons in your job search.
Interview, interview, interview-avoid the temptation to accept the first offer of employment. At each salon, explain that you are in the interview process. By talking with several salons you can gauge the best fit for you. It's important to get it right the first time, because moving around in the first year isn't the ideal way to jumpstart your career.

Don't dress inappropriately during your visits.
Make sure the image you present is professional and in line with the salon where you want to work. Your first opportunity to test your image is when you check out a salon to explore the possibility of working there, whether that involves a formal interview or just a casual visit. To get hired, the salon owner will have to believe that you will fit in with the culture and be able to service the full variety of clients who come in that salon. The safest bet is to find a look that fuses hip with professional. Black is always a safe bet in the salon industry. Also, make sure your own hair cut and hair color are fresh.

Do project confidence and professionalism.
Beyond your clothing, you must be professional in your demeanor, attitude and language. The industry has no patience for bad behavior like showing up late, still wearing last night's make-up, slouching, chewing gum, mumbling, being rude. A simple smile goes a long way. The talent for hair styling and a pleasant personality may come naturally to you. All the rest is built through confidence.

Don't "over share" during your interview.
Salons are casual places, and you may fall into more of a chat than a formal interview. Don't let that comfort level catch you off guard, though. While you want to be candid and transparent, you don't want to share too much. Also, listen during the interview and don't give canned answers. Show you can build relationships and rapport. Ask questions and find out how you can meet the salon's needs.

Do keep away from discussing certain personal topics.
These include things like lifestyle choices-your relationships, politics, religion-your health history or past job problems. An innocent remark in one of these areas could make a big deal out of a small part of your life if taken the wrong way by an interviewer.
Don't forget to ask yourself some questions after your meeting.

Evaluate the salon and the owner.
Was the manager/owner prepared, on time, organized and enthusiastic? Was the salon clean? Were the stylists smiling? Did the clients look happy? How did you feel when you walked in the door? All these observations will tell you what it's like to work there, and that's very important information.

Do visit the same salon a few times.
It is hard to sum up a salon from just one meeting. A salon that offers a longer interview process, such as three visits that include one technical interview, will give you a chance to evaluate its culture, stylists, management and clients. If the salon doesn't require that, ask to come in to observe at a busy time in order to get the feel and the culture of the salon. Remember: An interview isn't just something you sit through. You need to participate. Always follow up with a thank-you note.