Hairdresser Career Guide: Duties, Pay and Where to Work

Thinking about a career as a hairdresser? You are in good company. Hairdressing is a hands-on, people-focused job with plenty of variety. Here is what the role involves, how to get started, and how to find the right fit. Connectzapp matches your profile to relevant hairdressing and barbering jobs, so you can spend less time searching and more time styling.

What does a hairdresser do?

A hairdresser cuts, colours, styles and treats hair. You work with chemical solutions to colour, straighten and permanently wave hair. You also provide hair and scalp treatments that keep clients coming back.

Most hairdressers work in a hair salon, a beauty salon or from their own home. The work is busy and social. Much of your day is spent on your feet.

Daily tasks you can expect

• Speaking with clients and advising them on hair care
• Cutting hair with scissors, clippers or a razor
• Colouring, bleaching and styling using brushes, combs and straightening irons
• Shaving and trimming beards, moustaches and eyebrows
• Shaping, colouring and curling wigs and hairpieces
• Keeping work areas and equipment clean and presentable
• Selling retail hair care products
• Updating client records and using the salon booking system and cash register

Who makes a good hairdresser?

Technical skill matters, but people skills often matter more. Clients trust hairdressers who listen well and explain things clearly.

• You enjoy helping people and chatting with them
• You communicate well and follow instructions
• You have creative flair and an eye for detail
• You have good hand-eye coordination
• You stay calm when the salon gets busy
• You have patience, especially with nervous or fussy clients

How to become a hairdresser

Most people start with a certificate 2, certificate 3 or certificate 4 in hairdressing. TAFEs and universities across Australia offer these courses. Many salons also take on apprentices, so you can learn on the job while you study.

Graduates with a certificate 4 are in particularly high demand. It is worth aiming for the higher qualification if you can.

What can you expect to be paid?

Pay varies with experience, location and whether you work as an apprentice. As a guide, the average hairdresser earns around 800 dollars a week before tax, excluding super. The average working week is about 38 hours. If you already work in the industry, compare your pay with these figures to see where you stand.

Where are the best hairdresser jobs?

Most salons and barber shops employ four to six people. You will usually work as part of a small, close team. Salons often set hours around clients, so expect some early starts, late finishes and weekend shifts.

Opportunities also exist beyond the standard salon. You could work in a large department store, on a cruise ship or at a holiday resort. Some hairdressers style for television, film, theatre or advertising.

Strong sales skills can help you stand out. Salon owners value hairdressers who recommend treatments and products. Those who generate extra revenue may be able to negotiate a higher salary.

Longer-term paths

Experience opens more doors. Some hairdressers open their own salon, enter a partnership or teach hairdressing. Others specialise as a kids hairdresser or build a loyal following as a barber.

Landing your first hairdressing job

Salons are looking for skill and attitude. A clear resume and a short, focused cover letter help you get noticed. Your work history, qualifications and client-facing experience should be easy to spot.

Connectzapp works a little differently. Create a profile and Connectzapp matches you to relevant jobs posted by employers. When you both express interest with one click, a connection is made. That is less guesswork and fewer cold applications.

Interview tips that make a good impression

Your first impression often happens before you say a word. Dress comfortably but slightly conservatively. Choose a shirt or blouse rather than a sleeveless top. Keep hair neat and tied back if it is long. Apply makeup neatly and keep accessories minimal.

During the interview, stand tall, smile and hold eye contact. Shake hands firmly. Show you can listen as well as talk.

Your practical takeaway

Start with a recognised qualification, build your people skills and be clear about the setting you want to work in. Then create a profile on Connectzapp and let relevant salons and barber shops find you. Explore hairdressing and barbering opportunities at Connectzapp today.