Chapter 30 Seeking Employment

Top professionals achieved success with their ~ self-motivation ~ energy ~ persistence

~ used time wisely ~ planned for the future ~ went the extra mile ~ had self-confidence Their success ~ they created it Right choice ~ road to success

Preparing for Licensure Test-wise ~mastery of course content ~ understanding the strategies for taking test

Good study habits and time management include: Planned, realistic study schedule Read carefully/active studier Well-organized notebook Develop vocabulary list

Take notes Organize and review handouts Review past quizzes and tests Listen carefully in class for cues and clues Mentally ready/positive attitude toward test

Healthy diet Plenty of rest Dress comfortably Anticipate some anxiety Avoid cramming Comfortable with computerized test taking

On Test Day: Relax-slow down physically Review the material Arrive early ~ self-confidence ~ be alert ~ calm ~ ready for the challenge

Read written instructions ~ listen to verbal instructions Ask questions Skim the test Budget your time Wear a watch

Begin work ASAP ~ mark answers carefully Answer easiest questions first Mark questions you skip Know what the question is asking

Answer as many questions as possible ~ uncertainty-guess or estimate Look over the test Make any changes Check test booklet carefully

Deductive Reasoning Process of reaching logical conclusions by employing logical reasoning Includes: Eliminating options know to be incorrect

Watch for “key” words ~ usually ~ commonly ~ most instances ~ never ~ always

Studying the stem ~ provide a clue Watch for grammatical clues ~ last word “an”-answer starts with a vowel Look at similar or related questions Understanding test formats Know your material

Multiple choice Read entire question carefully Look for best answer Eliminate incorrect answers Two choices are close or similar, one is probably right

For ex. Q. Every product used in the cosmetology school or salon should have a OSHA registration number Warranty Opaque container MSDS

When two choices are identical, both must be wrong For ex. Q. Hair with low porosity is considered: Normal Resistant Overly porous Ideal

Two choices are opposites,. one is probably wrong and Two choices are opposites, one is probably wrong and one is probably correct For ex. Q. Hot rollers and Velcro rollers are used: For maximum volume Only on wet hair Only on dry hair For 30 minutes at a time

“all of the above” often the correct response Pay attention to words like “not, except, but” Guess if you do not know The answer to one question may be in the stem of another

The Practical Exam Practice test skills as often as you can Mock licensing examinations Familiarize yourself with the content-bulletins by licensing agency List of equipment and implements you must bring

All equipment and implements are clean and in good working order Locate the examination site before the exam so you do not get lost Time your drive-be on time Listen carefully to the examiner’s instructions and follow them

Focus on your own knowledge Do not be concerned with what others are doing Follow all infection control and safety procedures throughout the exam Look the part-neat, clean, and professional

Preparing for Employment What do you really want What areas most interest you Strongest practical skills Personal qualities Review Figure 25-4 Work hard ~ key to success Commitment-pay off later

How to Get the Job You Want Key personal characteristics: Motivation ~ take the necessary action to achieve a goal Integrity ~ a strong code of moral and artistic values

Good technical and communication skills ~develop both!! Strong work ethic ~taking pride in your work ~committing yourself

Enthusiasm ~ learn, grow ~ expand your skills and knowledge

A Salon Survey Small Independent Salon Owned by an individual or ~ two or more partners One to three styling chairs

owners are hairstylists ~ maintain clientele ~ managing the business Beginning stylists can learn a great deal and earn a good living

Independent Salon Chains 5 or more salons owned by individual or two or more partners Everything from low-priced to very high-priced services Some employ education directors and style directors Stylists are often hired to manage particular locations

Large National Salon Chains Throughout the country and internationally First jobs ~ Secure pay and benefits ~ Additional paid training ~ Management opportunities ~ Corporate advertising ~ Transfer

Franchise Salons (Super Cuts) Another chain salon organization National name Consistent image ~ Business formula Individuals pay a fee to use the name

Receives a business plan and national marketing campaigns Owned by investors ~ seek return on investment Same benefits as corporate salons

Basic Value-Priced Operations High volume walk-in traffic Hire recent graduates Pay by the hour ~ commission-style bonuses Stylists work fast/no frills

Mid-Priced Full-service Salons Complete menu Strong marketing ~ client returns and referrals Trains styling tea-productive and profitable Build relationships with clients

High-End Image Salons or Day Spas Employs well-trained stylists and assistants Offer higher priced services ~ treatments Located in trendy, upscale sections

High level of personal service Technical expertise ~ personal appearance ~ communication skills meet high standards Medical spas-owned by physicians (offshoots of day spas)

Resume Development Written summary ~ education work ~ experience Keep it simple Use good quality paper Include on name, address, phone number, and e-mail address on both resume and cover letter

List recent work experience List relevant education List skills and accomplishments Focus on information that is relevant to the position

Employer scans resume in about 20 seconds Market yourself ~ reader will want to meet you If worked in unrelated field, show transferable skills Focus on achievements

Accomplishment statements: add numbers or percentages ~ how many regular clients ~ weekly ~ service ticket average ~ client retention rate ~ % of retailing ~ % of revenue from color or texture services

Use: ~ training and school clinic performances ~ extracurricular activities ~ full or part-time jobs To create a good, attention getting resume

Be sure to include cosmetology related school accomplishments like: Receive any honors during training *student of the month Special recognition *attendance or academic Win any cosmetology-related competitions Attendance average? Work with student body or fundraisers

The Do’s of Resumes Put complete contact information on resume Make it easy to read ~ concise, clear sentences Know your audience ~ vocabulary and language Keep it short-one page Stress accomplishments ~ skills

~ relevant to position seeking Emphasize transferable skills Focus on career goals ~ relevant to position seeking Emphasize transferable skills i.e. shampoo/receptionist Use action verbs ~ achieved ~ coordinated ~ developed ~ increased ~ maintained ~ strengthened Make it neat

Include professional references *include person’s title, place of employment, and telephone number Be realistic (you are just starting out) about what employers will offer you Include a cover letter Note any skills with new technology

Resume Don’ts Avoid salary references Avoid information about why you left former positions Don’t stretch the truth

You are a total package, not just a resume Utilize all available resources for resume development and job search Best practice information on Internet *individualls can provide recommendations

Employment Portfolio Collection Photos and documents ~ reflect your skills ~ accomplishments ~ abilities

Include: Diplomas Awards and achievements Current resume Letters of reference from former employers Continuing education ~training certificates

Membership in industry ~ professional organizations Relevant civic affiliations ~ community activities Before and after photos Statement why chose cosmetology Any other info you regard as relevant

Prepared ~ projects professionalism ***Typed Separate sections with tabs Create a digital portfolio Bring along a printed copy

What you love about your new career Statement- What you love about your new career Your philosophy ~ importance of teamwork ~ contributing team member Methods you would try ~ increase clinic ~ retail revenue

**Salon owners do pay attention to a well-built portfolio and resume. Impress them and you may be hired over the next person that did not think this necessary.

Targeting the Establishment First job, probably will not begin with your dream job Do not wait until graduation Locate a salon ~ type of clients you wish for

Make a list of area salons or establishments ~Internet Watch for salons that advertise locally Check Web sites and social networking Keep salon’s culture in mind

Visit salons, talk to owners, managers, educators, and stylists Field Research Networking ~ establish contacts Visit salons, talk to owners, managers, educators, and stylists **hair shows, classes, friends Set up an exploratory visit to salon

First contact by phone: Use best telephone manners *speak with confidence *self-assurance If using e-mail *be brief *check spelling and punctuation Do not text unless they request it

Explain: ~ researching the market for potential positions ~ have just a few quick questions

Ask ~ in need of any new stylists ~ how many do they employ Ask if you can make an appointment to visit the salon ~ if yes, be on time!!!!!!! ~confirm the appointment the day before via e-mail

Remember ~ rejection is not a negative reflection on you ~ some professionals are too busy ~ some will help others begin their career

The Salon Visit Checklist ~ key areas ~ decision-making Keep on file Write a brief note thanking the salon representative Never burn your bridges Build a network of contacts

~ send resume with a cover letter The Job Interview Next step ~ send resume with a cover letter ~ request an interview Many salons have Web sites *employment areas *follow instructions exactly *some don’t want attachments Comply with salon guidelines

~ one week If no interview ~send a resume Make a follow-up contact ~ try to schedule an interview May not have openings/granting interviews If no interview ~send a resume ~ ask them to keep your resume on file Thank contact for their time and consideration

Interview Preparation Identification: ~ SSN ~ driver’s license ~ name and address of former employers ~ name and phone number ~ nearest relative ~ not living with you

Interview wardrobe: ~ crucial ~ obtain one or two “interview outfits” ~ appropriate ~ fashionable and flattering ~ accessories fashionable and functional ~nails well groomed

~ hairstyle current ~ makeup current (female) ~ clean shaven (male) ~ perfume subtle ~ handbag or briefcase

Supporting materials: ~ resume ~ facts and figures ~ employment portfolio

Review and Prepare for Anticipated Interview Questions *why do you want to work here *like best about training *punctual ~ regular attendance *will instructor confirm *what skills your strongest *areas less strong *team player

*flexible *career goals *days/hours *obstacles ~ keeping your commitment *what assets do you bring

*computer skills *handle problem client *retailing *attend training programs *describe excellent customer service *consultation questions *prepared to train for a year

Preparing to perform a service: ~ some salons require ~ confirm If yes: ~ model appropriately dressed ~ prepared for the experience ~bring all necessary supplies, products, and tools

The Interview Be on time or early Turn OFF cell phone-no ear buds or hands-free devices Warm, friendly smile Walk, sit, and stand with good posture Polite/courteous Do not sit until asked to do so

Never smoke or chew gum ~ do not come with coffee ~ soft drinks, snacks Never lean on or touch desk Project a positive first impression *confident * relaxed

Speak clearly Answer questions honestly Never criticize former employers Remember to thank interviewer Crucial: you may be invited to ask questions ~have a list ready

*what are you looking for in a stylist *job description *salon manual *salon promote itself *grow in skills ~ responsibilities *continuing education *training program involve

*room for advancement *benefits ~advanced training ~medical insurance *community activities is salon involved in *form of compensation *when: position be filled

*may I contact you in a week regarding your decision Do not feel you have to ask all of your questions. Write a thank you note or e-mail Close with a positive statement that you want the job (if you do) If invited to call about the employment decision, then do so

Legal Aspects of the Employment Interview Questions that may or may not be included: Race, religion, and national origin…NOT Age or date of birth…only can be asked if you are under 18 years of age Disabilities or physical traits…NOT

Drug use or smoking…YES (drug testing) Citizenship…NOT You may choose to answer or not ~ respond: the question is irrelevant to the position ~ would like to focus on your qualities and skills that are suited to the job

Employers can legally require you to sign Employee Contracts Employers can legally require you to sign Most common: *noncompete *confidentiality agreements Prohibits time period and geographic area can’t take all that education and training across the street

Noncompete *forbids gathering client records and phone numbers Cannot interfere with your right to work Contract must be very specific *sometimes controversial If presented one-take home, read it, possibly consult a labor-law attorney before signing it

The Employment Application Required to complete Your resume and list you prepared will assist you in completing the application ***Remember to take a resume with you even if you sent one.

Doing it Right A history that shows how you have achieved your goals ~ confidence will grow Develop a dynamic portfolio *well organized Learn all you can Read about the industry

Take advantage of continuing education Attend trade shows Take advantage of continuing education Become an active participant in making this great industry even better Saloniris.com IBSNewYork.com