While you’re researching your options for attending
beauty school, waiting for your classes to start or even already in the middle of your
cosmetology school studies, I suggest getting a job as a salon receptionist, which today we refer to as a front desk specialist or associate. To get hired for this position, you may need no more qualification than a friendly smile and an interest in beauty.
Working in a salon will heighten your insight into how the business operates. You’ll soak up the culture; learn the lingo; compare the duties of stylists, skin care professionals and nail techs; and observe the work ethic and habits that lead to success in this field. You won’t believe how much it will add to your cosmetology education. And let’s not forget that you could use the money!
When you graduate from
beauty school and get your license, if you’ve done a good job at the front desk the salon owner will almost certainly offer you a job as a technician. By then you will know so much about the retail products that you’ll be recommending as a licensed professional, and you’ll already be friends with your coworkers. But beware: you may find that you love working reception and want to stick with it! More and more, the front desk associates I talk to hold a cosmetology license and can talk to clients knowledgeably about their hair care needs. It can be a great career in itself.