What Skills Does a Cosmetologist Need to Master?

To be a successful cosmetologist you must master many complex skills, just as you would for any other career. Did you know, for example, that cosmetologists have to study chemistry? Haircoloring requires an understanding of chemicals, how they work, and how they interact. This is just one example. Below are more examples of critical skill sets that cosmetology shares with other careers.

Communication Skills

Cosmetologists need excellent communication skills.  Guests return to a stylist who makes them feel comfortable.  Being a doctor isn’t limited to diagnosing and treating illnesses and diseases.  Doctors need people skills as well as communication skills in order to do their job well, and their interactions with patients determine their success.  Cosmetology is the same.  For example, if a customer asks for a blunt cut and their stylist adds in a few face framing layers, chances are the customer walks away unhappy. The ability to listen to a customer, determine their needs, and then to communicate and understand what they want is critical.

People Skills

Cosmetology is like any other service-based industry or business. If you don’t have a strong clientele base, you don’t have a stable appointment book. People’s appearances are very important to them. When they trust you, you’re dealing with precious cargo. Being able to satisfy your customers is crucial. If you  incorrectly formulate a hair color or damage a client’s hair, chances are they’re not coming back. Happy customers with a great image are repeat customers.

Business Skills

Cosmetology is a business, just like any other. Any successful cosmetologist knows how to market themselves and manage their time. A salon owner or the editor of a beauty magazine needs to know how to stay afloat, just like any corporate leader or store owner. You also may need to manage other people as a cosmetologist. The salon owner oversees employees every day,just as a head of a marketing department would.

A career in cosmetology is every bit as professional and serious as any other. If you ever encounter someone who doesn’t think being a cosmetologist is a “real job,” set the record straight. All cosmetologists should be proud of their skills, expertise and career—they’ve earned it!