Starting out as an apprentice hairdresser is exciting, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Reflecting on my journey, there are several things I wish I had known that would have made the process smoother and helped me grow faster in the industry.
1. Patience is Key
One of the biggest lessons I learned is that becoming a skilled hairdresser takes time. When I first started, I was eager to learn everything at once—cuts, colors, techniques—and was frustrated when I didn’t master them immediately. What I didn’t realize is that it takes years of practice to refine your skills. Hairdressing is an art, and rushing through the basics can slow down long-term progress. Mastering the fundamentals of hair cutting and styling, before jumping into complex trends, sets a strong foundation for future growth.
2. Communication is as Important as Technique
In hairdressing, communication skills are just as important as technical abilities. As an apprentice, I was focused primarily on perfecting my cuts and colors. What I didn’t fully appreciate at the time was the need to clearly communicate with clients. Understanding a client’s vision, asking the right questions, and explaining styling choices are critical to customer satisfaction. Over time, I learned that happy clients are not just about the haircut—they also want to feel heard and understood.
3. Be Open to Criticism
Taking constructive feedback was another challenge. As an apprentice, every mistake can feel like a failure, but I wish I had realized that those mistakes were my greatest opportunities for growth. Instead of being discouraged by criticism from mentors or clients, I learned to embrace it. The key is viewing feedback as a way to improve and develop your craft, not as a personal attack. The sooner you learn to accept critiques, the faster you’ll become better at what you do.
4. Learn the Business Side Early On
Hairdressing is not just about being creative with hair; it’s also a business. When I started as an apprentice, I focused entirely on building my technical skills, without realizing how important it was to learn about marketing, pricing, and client retention. Whether you want to work for a salon or open your own, knowing how to manage appointments, handle customer service, and promote yourself on social media is invaluable. I wish I had invested time early on in understanding the business side of the industry.
5. Build Relationships, Not Just Skills
Finally, the importance of networking can’t be understated. I was so focused on becoming technically proficient that I underestimated the value of building relationships with other professionals and clients. Hairdressing is a people-centric industry, and who you know is as important as what you know. Building rapport with clients and networking with peers can open doors to better opportunities and career growth.
Looking back, these lessons have shaped my career, and I wish I had known them from the start. Becoming a successful hairdresser takes time, adaptability, and a well-rounded approach that combines technique, communication, and business knowledge.
The Certificate III in Hairdressing Apprenticeship course is a balanced and comprehensive approach to mastering the art of hairdressing with students learning from a structured program that covers everything from hair structure, cutting techniques, client communication, styling, colour, bleaching and business essentials. Our apprenticeship training is available both face to face at your salon, as well as full training access in our academy locations and online. – Learn More
