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So You Want to Be a...

If you've recently started your journey in the hair and beauty industry but still aren’t quite sure what you’d like to specialise in, read on for some inspiration. You might reach a decision sooner than you think!

So You Want to Be a Hairdresser?

"Fantastic! You get to work in an industry that can be so creative and rewarding! You help people feel confident, stay on top of trends, and work in a dynamic and social environment."

Hairdressing is a vibrant career with endless possibilities. You can specialise in barbering, colouring, cutting or work in session and editorial styling across fashion, TV and film. The industry is as diverse as the people you’ll meet and can take you to incredible places all over the world.

Ongoing education is essential. New techniques, tools and products are always emerging, and staying updated through courses, workshops and seminars will keep your skills sharp and your creativity flowing.

"Passion, patience and precision are vital traits in this career." Caroline Spencer, Senior Colour Director at Sassoon London Academy

Caroline Spencer showcasing her creative haircuts

So You Want to Be an Extensionist?

"Being an extensionist is about combining technical skill with creativity, care and a deep understanding of your craft."

It’s not just about adding length. If you want to stand out, you need to be an all-rounder. That means understanding how to cut and shape hair, colour match it perfectly, and work with various textures. You need to be a hairdresser first, and an extensionist second.

"Application is important, but what sets you apart is what you do after that. I trained in wig making, which really helped me understand placement, density and how to finesse my work."

Broaden your skills by learning multiple extension methods. Even if you specialise in one or two, understanding several techniques will keep your creativity engaged and allow you to customise results in unique ways. Also, don’t forget the emotional side of the job.

"Extensions are deeply personal. You’re not just transforming someone’s look.

You’re helping them feel like themselves again. That requires empathy, not just expertise." Vicky Demetriou, Great Lengths and Larry King stylist @vickydemetriouhair

Vicky Demetriou and a range of hair colours on models

So You Want to Own a Salon?

"Find your niche and own it. Success doesn’t come from trying to do everything. It comes from doing one thing brilliantly."

For Tim Scott-Wright, that one thing was blonding. It became the foundation of his salon's identity, reputation and profitability. Identify what you're passionate about and build your business around it.

Passion is just the beginning. Loving hair is essential, but it won’t run a successful salon on its own. From tracking profits and losses to pricing every service correctly, every business decision should be intentional.

"Smart pricing, clever planning and financial awareness are non-negotiable if you want long-term success." Culture also plays a huge role. Build a team and keep them.

"Over 11 years, I’ve only said goodbye to two team members and mentored them into their next steps. Invest in your people, be present and provide ongoing training. A loyal team is the backbone of a strong salon."

Stay connected to your community and the wider industry. Attend events, mentor others and keep learning. Sharing knowledge strengthens your leadership and helps raise industry standards.

"Even after 30 years in the business, I still feel impostor syndrome. But I keep showing up, stay hands-on and continue evolving. Great salon owners make tough decisions, stay humble and grow with their team." Tim Scott-Wright

Tim Scott-Wright with various alternative hair models

Need More Career Advice?

If you’re just beginning your career in hair or beauty and want more guidance, check out our latest blogs here.

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