What Is A Hairdresser? Hairdressers cut, colour and shape their clients' hair to create the style they request.

As a trainee hairdresser you would usually begin by carrying out basic tasks such as: greeting customers shampooing hair making sure towels and supplies are ready for use keeping the salon clean and tidy.

As a qualified hairdresser your work would include: discussing with the client how they want their hair done, giving advice and suggesting ideas for suitable styles shampooing and conditioning cutting and styling colouring, perming or straightening advising on minor hair and scalp problems making appointments and handling payments ordering materials making sure that hair products containing chemicals are used and stored correctly.

What Makes A Good Hairdresser ! Successful hairdressers can take their pick from many top jobs - preparing supermodels, working on magazines and photos shoots, or tending to the rich and famous. What's more, with UK hairdressing and beauty therapy rightly regarded as the best in the world, there is ample opportunity to travel internationally and show off your skills abroad.

Hairdressing isn't just about glamour. They require hard work and dedication, and are professional careers with a clear progression route from salon trainee to owner or manager. The hours are long and sometimes unsociable, but the rewards more than make up for it.

Absolutely anyone of any age from any background can become a hairdresser. Some people will have known since they were small that they wanted to be a hairdresser. Others get into it much later. For instance, Charles Worthington gave up a University degree course in architecture to become a hairdresser, and is now one of the tops names in the industry!

No specific qualifications are needed, but GCSEs in English, Science and Maths are strongly recommended. Colleges and employers also look for other qualities such as: Communication and people skills Stamina Patience Enthusiasm Reliability

What qualifications and experience will employers look for? You can train as a hairdresser full-time or part-time at a college, or work as a trainee, learning on the job and attending college on day-release. Whichever option you choose, you can complete the following qualifications: NVQ levels 1, 2 and 3 in Hairdressing NVQ levels 2 and 3 in Barbering.

Salary Salary on average for a hairdresser would be just under :

So if you are looking for a rewarding and diverse career that can bring you not just the glamour and excitement, but the real rewards of hard work and dedication, then perhaps hairdressing is for you.