The Business of Beauty

Making the most of your degree from the top cosmetology schools
By Laurie Brown

Congratulations.  You have chosen a challenging yet rewarding career in the beauty industry. With that comes a world of opportunity to positively impact the lives of others, while also earning a great living as either a hair stylist, nail technician, esthetician, make-up artist, barber, and more.  Many beauty academy graduates even move onto great careers as owners of upscale salons and spas, or as teachers at top cosmetology schools, sales representatives, image or fashion consultants, or examiners for State licensing boards.

The demand for beauty professionals increases every year as Americans live longer and invest more in their personal appearance. Nationwide, these occupations are predicted to grow by 12 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, even exceeding the average growth rate for all other occupations by almost 20 percent.

You can be part of this exciting industry by attending a top-rated beauty academy—one with a solid reputation for placing students in apprenticeships and jobs at the best salons. Regardless of the type of training you seek—hair stylist, nail technician, make-up artist, esthetician, or barber—it is critical to select a school, academy, or institute that is accredited by a national organization such as the National Accrediting Commission for Cosmetology Arts & Sciences (NACCAS). An accredited program from a top cosmetology school will not only ensure you get the experience you need to succeed, but is also most likely to offer financial aid, grants, scholarships, or loans to help cover tuition costs.

Ultimately, however, your success in the beauty industry stems from your willingness to study extensively, be vigilant and disciplined, and most importantly, to tap into your creative genius. Both beauty schools and salons look for stylists, nail technicians, estheticians, and cosmetologists who not only have the artistry at hand, but can translate those talents into a great looking cut, manicure, or make-over.  You know what you want Mrs. Smith’s hair style to look like, but can you communicate that to her in a way she finds welcoming?  Good customer service—listening, advising, and conveying messages—is critical to your success.