A DAY IN THE LIFE BY ASHLIN BRENNAN

HAIRDRESSING Hairdressers cut, style and color hair, and they may also perform permanent wave, straightening and bleaching treatments They can work at beauty salons, day spas, hotels and resorts Responsible for meeting state health and safety standards, keeping their work areas clean and sterilizing equipment

REQUIREMENTS Training RequiredCompletion of a state-licensed cosmetology training program LicensureState-issued license required in all states Key SkillsStrong communication, customer service and time management skills; creativity and dexterity Salary (2014)$23,120 per year (Median salary for all hairdressers, hairstylists and cosmetologists)

STEP 1 Must complete a state-approved cosmetology program in order to meet the licensing requirements needed to work Several options exist for prospective hairdressers to pursue their education in the field Can attend a trade school specializing in cosmetology to earn a certificate in the field, or they may attend a community college and earn an associate's degree in cosmetology

STEP 2 Upon completion of an approved program, hairdressers in all 50 states must obtain a state-issued license in order to work in a salon or run their own hairdressing business Applicants must additionally pass a two-part licensing exam This exam typically consists of a written portion covering health and safety practices, as well as a practical examination in which applicants demonstrate their knowledge of hairdressing techniques and proper sanitation

STEP 3 Seek Employment Hairdressers have the ability to find employment in a wide variety of settings, including salons, hotels and day spas The opportunity for entrepreneurship exists in hairdressing, and professionals can open their own businesses

STEP 4 Continuing education may help hairdressers maintain their licenses, stay current with industry trends and learn about new techniques that are developed alongside advances in technology Top hairdressers may be able to work at the most popular and prestigious salons They might also choose to open their own salons, where they can provide services for their clients and employ other hairdressers

A TYPICAL WORKING DAY Make sure all the team are on time and ready to work for the day Dealing with clients making sure every client leaves the salon relaxed and happy The first step is to do a consultation with the client, understanding what she would like from her treatment and what her desire for her hair is The next step is to put my ideas into action and achieve what the client wants. Keeping the salon clean is important Ordering stock is also a major part of the day

CONTACTS & SCHOOLS Ricci's Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy 99 South Main Marketplace Newtown, CT Nikki Peto at Root Cause 427 Stillson Road, Suite 407 Fairfield, CT (203)

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