Ace the Interview: Tips for Climbing the Career Ladder as a Hair Stylist or Beauty Pro
Interviews are pivotal moments that can determine the trajectory of your career as a hair stylist, makeup artist, esthetician, or other beauty professional. With the right preparation and attitude, you can confidently walk into that interview ready to land your dream job or take the next step towards advancing your career.
Follow these top tips to crush your next beauty industry interview:
Know the Salon, Spa, or Brand Inside Out
Research should be the first item on your interview prep to-do list. Peruse the company’s website, social media, press releases, reviews, and any news coverage about them. Familiarize yourself with their unique culture, services, products, and ethos. Understanding the company’s core values and priorities will allow you to explain why you are an excellent culture fit.
Tailor Your Resume and Portfolio
Carefully review the job description and tweak your resume to include keywords and emphasize skills the employer is seeking. Bring a portfolio featuring your best, most relevant work. For hair stylists, include photos showcasing cuts, colors, blowouts, updos, etc. Makeup artists should include shots displaying your artistry across different styles, events, and faces. Estheticians can include before/after photos of facials, chemical peels, and other services. This visual representation of your skills will make you stand out.
Rehearse Common Interview Questions
Practice answering likely interview questions aloud until your responses flow naturally. Prepare stories that highlight times you provided excellent customer service, resolved conflicts, solved problems, worked as part of a team, and exhibited other desirable qualities. Be ready to explain specifically why you want to work for this particular company.
Come Prepared with Thoughtful Questions
The interview should feel like a two-way conversation, so make sure you have intelligent, insightful questions ready to ask the interviewers. Queries about training programs, opportunities for career development, the work environment, and typical day-to-day responsibilities all demonstrate your engagement and interest in the role.
Exude Professionalism and Passion
From your outfit to your body language to your tone of voice, present yourself as a consummate professional. Convey genuine enthusiasm for the industry and this job opportunity. Hiring managers want candidates who are polished, but also passionate about their work and career growth.
Ask for Feedback on Your Interview Performance
Before leaving, ask the interviewer(s) how they felt the interview went and if they have any suggestions for improvement. This shows you are committed to constantly honing your interview skills and persona. Their constructive criticism can help you excel at future interviews.
With meticulous preparation and a confident, passionate attitude, your next interview will lead to amazing career opportunities. Always keep learning, developing new skills, and building your network. Consistent effort will enable you to reach the pinnacle of your profession.