Placement Overview

This placement is a hair stylist in a busy high street salon. They provide consultations, cutting and styling services. 

Generic Job Description for a Hairdresser

Hairdressers cut, style and colour hair. They work in salons or as self-employed ‘mobile’ hairdressers visiting clients at their houses.

Hairdressers discuss the requirements of their clients in a consultation. They will suggest styles and colours to suit the client’s desires, appearance and hair type. They must keep their knowledge of the latest fashions and trends up to date.

Skills:

•  A pleasant manner
• Good communication skills
• Creativity
• The ability to work well under pressure
• Stamina

Pay:

• Entry £8,000 (whilst training)
• £10,000 - £20,000 with experience
• £30,000 or more for skilled and experienced hairdressers 

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Approx 40 hours per week
• Weekend work is common, Saturdays often being the busiest day in a Hairdressing salon 

Environment:

• Salon based
• Work involves standing for long periods
• Travel is normal for a self-employed mobile Hairdresser

Qualifications:

• No set entry requirements for training
• Apprenticeships are common
• Full and part-time courses are widely available

Training:

• Courses are available at various levels and typically take 1-2 years
• Further training to develop skills and techniques is common throughout a Hairdressers career

Opportunities:

• Opportunities exist across the UK
• Workplaces range from small local salons to large chains
• There are opportunities for Hairdressers to work abroad and on cruiseships 

Links:

www.habia.org.uk - The Hair and Beauty Industry Authority

www.fhbf.org.uk - Freelance Hair and Beauty Federation