How to Become a Salon Manager
The hair salon is a busy, buzzing place and one that can only stay coordinated under the watchful eye of the salon manager. Being a manager is one of the most rewarding career paths in the beauty industry. It combines cosmetology skills with business savvy to create a great experience for the customer. If you love beauty and have always had a knack for business, this might just be the profession for you.
What do I Need to Become a Salon Manager?
Since the manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, handling finances, managing salon staff, building relationships with clients and dealing with suppliers, you need a management qualification. In order to obtain your professional license, you need to graduate from a program offered by an accredited institution. Make sure the cosmetology school offers business training. Although managers generally do not require a cosmetology license, it is highly beneficial to have one to ensure clients receive the best service.
Skills Required to Successfully Manage a Salon
Obtaining your management license is essential. However, you also require the communication skills to deal with your staff and clients. Learning to listen is an important trait to making your career a success. Managing a salon involves working with a wide range of personalities. You need to pay special attention to staff grievances and suggestions in order to grow your business. In addition, you need to keep an eye on your customers and rate their opinion about the service they are receiving.
Listening can give you the information you need to make important changes that will grow the business. Listening to your staff as well as your suppliers can help you keep track of what the salon needs to increase profits. While listening is crucial, so is leadership. Being a manager means having the confidence and know-how to lead. If you need a few lessons in leadership, find a mentor with ample experience in this field to guide you or take part in conferences and seminars to hone your skills.
Many managers start off as hair stylists and cosmetologists in hair salons before being promoted to the position. Working behind the chair gives you experience with clients, products, suppliers and staff members. As you gain salon experience, you become sensitive to the demands and needs of the business. By showing consistency, leadership and loyalty, you place yourself in a position to be made manager.
Becoming a manager requires more than just education. It involves an ability to coordinate the different aspects of the salon business. You need communication and leadership skills to deal with clients, staff and suppliers. Even without a management qualification, you can work your way up to this dynamic position. By gaining experience, sharing fresh ideas or finding a mentor, you can show your boss you are able to take on the demanding task of a salon manager.
Evergreen Beauty College offers esthetics and cosmetology programs. Contact us for more information.
