How Do You Find a Job Post-Beauty School?

According to a 2007 job survey done by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Science (NCCAS), 53% of all salons across the United States had at least one job opening in 2007. Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment trends in cosmetology are expected to increase by 14% by 2016. For licensed cosmetologists just graduating from an accredited beauty school, these numbers suggest that finding a career in cosmetology after college will be a lot easier than you might have thought.

But where do you start your search?

Get Support from your School

Many beauty schools will have a job posting service for their recent graduates. Check with your school to see if they offer student support and graduate career assistance. Many salons will offer apprenticeships and internships directly to the students of the school and often they will hire their students as full time employees once they graduate. Furthermore, many salon owners will go directly to the local school or even post openings on the online job search site for recent salon graduates.

Join the Right Associations

Another great resource is cosmetology association websites. Two of the most respected cosmetology organizations in America include the National Cosmetology Association which sponsors the online job site Behind the Chair, and the American Association of Cosmetology Schools. Both organizations provide the latest news and events in the cosmetology world as well as being excellent resources for aspiring cosmetologists.

Check your Local Community

Finally, always check your local newspaper and online community job search engine for salon postings, esthetician positions, and spa openings. Keep in mind that qualified beauticians do not only work in salons. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many will work in department stores and malls, on cruises, on movie sets, at day spas, at luxurious resorts, and even from home. Keep your options open when on the job hunt. Check online, in print newspapers, and inquire in person.

What to Expect

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that many entry-level cosmetologists are likely to work as assistants for the first few months until they prove their footing and build up the trust of the clientele. The average salary for beauty school graduates is around $30,000 to $48,000 depending on your living area, as reported by the NCCAS Job Survey 2007.

Many part time students will work in a beauty salon while attending school and thus, as soon as they graduate, are able to move into a full time cosmetology position. Keep in mind that many cosmetologists will only work in a salon for a few years before opening their own business. In fact, the NCCAS reports 27% of all salon workers leave their current job positions to start out on their own. For those looking for a career in cosmetology right from beauty school, the statistics are certainly in your favor.

The NCCAS reports that due to the constant employment change and demands in the beauty industry, many salon owners have trouble finding qualified workers with a certificate, degree, or license from an accredited cosmetology school. By completing your education at a beauty school of choice, you are securing your options, your salary and your future in the world of cosmetology.

Article Resources:

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
The National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS)
The National Cosmetology Association - Behind the Chair
The National Cosmetology Association