Unlocking the secrets: How to become a professional Hairdresser

Are you passionate about hair and beauty? Do you have a creative flair and a desire to make people feel confident and beautiful?

If so, pursuing a career as a professional hairdresser might be the perfect fit for you.

In this blog, we will delve into the rewards of becoming a qualified hairdresser, explore the vast array of career opportunities available and provide valuable tips to help you build a successful hairdressing career.

Rewards of pursuing a career as a professional Hairdresser in Melbourne

Being a hairdresser offers a multitude of rewards that go beyond just working with hair.

Firstly, you have the opportunity to unleash your creativity and artistic vision, by transforming clients’ looks to achieve the perfect look tailored to each individual and boosting their self-esteem. Through this process, both clients and hairdressers gain confidence as they see the results and develop their skills in a professional setting.

As a professional hairdresser, you also have the privilege of building strong connections with your clients and becoming a trusted confidant. The constant learning and evolving nature of the hairdressing industry also ensure that you will never stop growing and honing your craft, focusing on the skill and artistry involved in creating personalized styles.

What are the career opportunities for hairdressers?

The beauty industry is thriving and professional hairdressers are in high demand.

Upon becoming a qualified hairdresser, you open the doors to various exciting career paths. You may choose to work in a salon, where you can gain valuable hands-on experience working with real clients and customers to build practical skills and trust and build a loyal clientele. As a long-term goal, you may even open your own salon.

Ambitious individuals may aspire to become salon managers, where they would lead a friendly team of talented stylists. Alternatively, you may venture into freelance work, offering hairstyling services for events, photoshoots, weddings, fashion, theatre and even celebrity clients.

Some hairdressers also find fulfilment in education. These professionals share their knowledge and expertise by becoming trainers or educators in renowned beauty schools.

Starting as a salon assistant is a valuable way to gain experience and develop fundamental skills in hair styling and braiding.

How to build a successful hairdressing career?

Explore these helpful tips that can set you apart from the competition and propel you towards a successful career in hairdressing.

Develop your hairdressing skills

Creativity and technical skills are fundamental in the hair and beauty industry.

Master the art of cutting, styling, colouring, treating, cuts and colours for different hair types and textures.

Practise and refine your techniques regularly to ensure precision and consistency in your work. Mastering cut, colouring hair and treatments is essential to meet the diverse needs of your clients.

Finally, seek feedback from your clients and mentors to identify areas of improvement and continuously strive to enhance your skills. Stay passionate about learning and growing in your craft.

Specialise & stay versatile

Consider specialising in a particular area of hairdressing that interests you. Whether it’s precision cutting, colouring, bridal styling, or working with textured hair, or focusing on lived in colour, natural curl pattern and wigs, honing your skills in a specific niche can set you apart from other professionals.

However, it’s also important to maintain versatility in your skill set to cater to a diverse range of clients and their unique preferences.

As you progress in your career, focus on building a diverse portfolio that showcases your expertise. This portfolio should document your best work: this might include different haircuts, styles, everyday hair and colour techniques and demonstrate your ability to create unique looks. A well-curated portfolio will demonstrate your skills to potential clients and employers, so it’s important to always keep it updated.

Maintain professionalism and hygiene

Maintaining a professional image is crucial in the hairdressing industry. Healthy hair and the use of high-quality, chemical-free styling products are essential for client satisfaction and long-term hair wellness.

This means dressing appropriately, following hygiene standards and keeping your workspace clean and organised. Demonstrating professionalism in all aspects of your work will not only impress clients but also contribute to a positive and reputable reputation.

In the long-term, this will forge strong relationships with your fellow hairdressers, makeup artists, photographers and other professionals in the beauty industry. Collaborations and referrals can expand your reach and expose you to new opportunities down the track.

Provide excellent customer service

Exceptional customer service is the cornerstone of a successful hairdressing career. Treat each client with respect, actively listen to their needs and strive to exceed their expectations - this will help you build strong connections with your clients, so you can earn their trust and loyalty. Help clients book their next appointment and provide advice based on strong hair knowledge to further enhance their experience.

Take qualifications in hairdressing

Enrol in a hairdressing course or apprenticeship program that provides comprehensive training and hands-on experience. This will help you develop fundamental skills, time management and gain valuable life experience in a real salon environment.

This will help you stay up to date with the latest trends, as well as the best new hairdressing tools and technology. Learning and embracing any advancements in the hair and beauty industry - such as working with new styling techniques, applying innovative hair products and utilising digital platforms - can enhance your efficiency, creativity and overall client experience. If you are not following a traditional apprenticeship program, consider gap training and recognition of prior learning as alternative pathways to qualification.

Stay passionate and let your passion for hairdressing drive your commitment to excellence and client care.

Ready to get started on your career in hairdressing?

The hairdressing industry is ever-evolving, with new trends, techniques and products emerging regularly. Acquiring the necessary skills, techniques and knowledge is crucial to becoming a qualified professional hairdresser. Choosing the right hair salon or salons in Melbourne for your next haircut is also essential to ensure you receive expert care and the latest styles.

A hairdressing certificate will help you stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends to remain competitive in the industry. It will also expand your current knowledge and industry-standard skills to help you offer the best services to your clients, while also helping you discover the best salons and go to destinations for a quality haircut in Melbourne.

Melbourne Polytechnic’s Hairdressing courses offer qualifications in Barbering, Hairdressing Apprenticeship and Hairdressing Non-apprenticeship exclusively at our Preston campus.

Students benefit from hands-on experience in our on campus Hairdressing Training Salon – a fully equipped, working salon open to the public. Featuring the latest technology and professional-grade products, this facility allows you to perfect your skills to a professional standard without ever leaving campus.