As a hair stylist, your resume is your first introduction to potential employers. It’s crucial that your resume effectively reflects your skills, experience, and professionalism. In this guide, we’ll provide you with the tools and tips you need to create an exceptional hair stylist resume.
A hair stylist resume should include all relevant skills, experience, and education. At a minimum, your resume should include your work history, a summary of your skills and accomplishments, and your educational background. It’s also important to tailor your resume to the position you’re applying for. For example, if the job posting emphasizes specific skills or experience, be sure to highlight these on your resume.
Importance of a well-written hair stylist resume
Having a well-written hair stylist resume is essential to securing a job in this competitive field. Your resume is an opportunity to showcase your skills and demonstrate why you’re the best candidate for the job. A poorly written resume can lead to missed opportunities and rejections from potential employers. Conversely, a well-written resume can set you apart from other applicants and improve your chances of being hired.
In the following sections, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating a hair stylist resume that will stand out to potential employers. From formatting to writing effective job descriptions, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create an impressive resume that accurately reflects your skills and experience.
Understanding the job of a Hair Stylist
Aspiring hair stylists should understand what the job entails before setting out to craft a compelling resume. The job description of a hair stylist varies depending on the salon setup, but generally, it involves cutting, coloring, or styling hair to the client’s satisfaction. Here are some of the most common duties you can expect:
A. Job description
- Shampooing and conditioning clients’ hair
- Cutting and trimming hair according to clients’ specifications
- Creating hairstyles for clients, such as updos or braids
- Coloring and highlighting hair using specialized products
- Advising clients on hair care and styling techniques
- Maintaining a clean and sanitary work area and equipment
- Staying up-to-date with industry trends and techniques
B. Required Skills
Hair styling is an art that requires both technical skill and creativity. Here are some of the vital skills you will need to succeed as a hair stylist:
- Knowledge of hair care products and their uses
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Attention to detail and good hand-eye coordination
- Creativity and artistic flair
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Professionalism and ability to maintain a positive attitude
C. Tools and Equipment necessary
Hair stylists require specialized equipment and tools to perform their job. Familiarity with these tools can set you apart as a skilled hair stylist.
- Combs, brushes, and clips for styling hair
- Scissors, clippers, and razors for cutting hair
- Hairpins and bobby pins for securing hair in place
- Hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners for styling hair
- Chemicals and dyes for coloring hair
- Sanitary equipment such as disposable gloves, neck strips, and capes
Becoming a hair stylist requires a unique set of skills and tools that are essential for the job. Be sure to highlight these skills and tools in your resume to stand out from the competition.
Resume Format and Styles
Your resume format can make or break your chances of landing a job interview. As a hair stylist, it’s important to showcase your skills and experience in a well-organized and visually appealing format.
There are three main resume formats you can choose from: chronological, functional, and combination.
A. Chronological
The chronological resume format is the most common and straightforward option for hair stylists. This style lists your work experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent job and ending with your earliest.
This format is great for those who have a strong and consistent work history in the hair industry. It allows hiring managers to quickly see your experience and career progression.
When using a chronological format, be sure to highlight specific accomplishments and skills you developed in each role. Use numbers and metrics to showcase your impact on previous salons or clients.
B. Functional
The functional resume format is a better option for those who have gaps in their work history, have a non-traditional background, or are looking to shift their career focus.
This style emphasizes your relevant skills and experience, rather than your work history. It’s a great option for those who have transferable skills from other industries or training programs.
When using a functional format, be sure to list your skills and accomplishments at the top of your resume, followed by a brief summary of your work history. Emphasize how your skills and experience make you qualified for the hair stylist position.
C. Combination
The combination resume format is a hybrid of the chronological and functional formats. It allows you to showcase your skills and experience, while also highlighting your work history in a chronological order.
This style is great for those who have a diverse range of skills and experiences, but still want to showcase their strong work history. It’s an effective way to show hiring managers that you have the right combination of skills and experience for the job.
When using a combination format, be sure to create clear sections for your skills, work history, and accomplishments. Emphasize how your relevant skills match the job posting, while also showcasing your career progression.
Choosing the right resume format is crucial to landing your dream job as a hair stylist. Whether you use a chronological, functional, or combination format, be sure to tailor your resume to the job posting, highlight your skills and accomplishments, and present your work history in a visually appealing way.
Hair Stylist Resume Sections
When putting together a hair stylist resume, it’s essential to include certain sections to make it easy for potential employers to understand your experience and skills. In this section, we will discuss the key sections to include in your stylist resume.
A. Contact Information
Make sure to include your full name and accurate contact information, including your phone number, email address, and current location. It’s also a good idea to include your professional social media profiles, such as LinkedIn or Instagram.
B. Resume Summary
A resume summary is a brief statement that highlights your skills, experiences, and qualities as they relate to the job you’re applying for. This section should outline your professional background, your strengths, and the value you can bring to your potential employer.
C. Work Experience
This section is the meat of your stylist resume. It should list your relevant work experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent job. For each position, include the following details:
- Job Title
- Company name
- Dates employed
- Key responsibilities
- Achievements and accomplishments
Under job responsibilities, include your day-to-day tasks and duties, such as cutting, coloring, and styling clients’ hair, as well as any additional responsibilities, such as managing inventory, supervising staff, or managing bookings. Accomplishments and achievements could include hitting sales targets, training junior staff, or getting positive feedback from clients.
D. Education and Certification
List your education history, including any relevant courses or certifications. If you have a hair stylist license or certification, make sure to include it in this section as well.
E. Skills
- Hard Skills – this refers to specific technical skills related to the hair styling industry, such as proficiency in using certain tools, coloring techniques, or hair cutting styles. List your technical skills that are aligned with the job you’re applying for.
- Soft Skills – include personal attributes that make you a strong candidate for the job, such as strong communication, creativity, and problem-solving abilities.
F. Awards and Accolades
This section is optional but can be valuable in setting you apart from other candidates. List any awards or recognition you have received for your work as a stylist, such as industry awards or positive reviews from clients.
By including all of these key sections, you can create a strong hair stylist resume that will catch the eye of potential employers and help you secure your next job in the industry.
Writing your Hair Stylist Resume
A. Writing Tips
When writing your hair stylist resume, start with a strong headline that clearly states the position you’re applying for. Your summary should then highlight your skills and accomplishments, making it clear that you’re the right candidate for the job.
Be sure to include relevant keywords that match the job description, as many employers use automated systems to screen resumes before they reach the hiring manager’s desk. Use active verbs when describing your duties and accomplishments, and keep your sentences concise and easy to read.
Don’t forget to proofread your resume for spelling and grammar errors. You want to make the best possible first impression, so it’s essential to present yourself in the best possible light.
B. Action Words
Using action words can help you stand out from the competition and show that you’re a proactive, effective hair stylist. Some examples of action words include:
- Styled
- Colored
- Cut
- Performed
- Consulted
- Advised
- Coordinated
- Managed
- Trained
- Collaborated
C. Listing Achievements
Your achievements are a crucial part of your hair stylist resume. Use quantifiable metrics to show your impact, such as the number of clients you served, the revenue you generated, or the awards you’ve won. Here are some examples of achievements you might include:
- Increased the salon’s revenue by 20% through successful upselling and cross-selling techniques.
- Built a loyal client base of over 100 regular customers through excellent communication and exceptional service.
- Won the Best Hair Stylist award at the 2021 National Salon Awards.
- Trained and mentored new hires, resulting in a 90% retention rate among staff members.
Your hair stylist resume should demonstrate your expertise, professionalism, and dedication to your craft. With a strong headline, effective use of action words, and clear listing of your achievements, you can create a resume that gets noticed and lands you your dream job.
Example Hair Stylist Resume
As a hair stylist looking for a new opportunity, having a strong resume can be the key to securing your dream job. There are two resume formats that you can use as a hair stylist, depending on your work history and career goals: a chronological resume and a functional resume.
A. Chronological Resume Example
A chronological resume is the most common format used by job seekers. It lists your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position and working backwards. Here is an example of a chronological resume for a hair stylist:
Personal Information
- Name: [Your Name]
- Address: [Your Address]
- Phone: [Your Phone Number]
- Email: [Your Email Address]
Objective
Experienced and skilled Hair Stylist seeking a position in a reputable salon where I can utilize my creativity and technical expertise to provide exceptional hair services to clients.
Education
- [Name of Hair Styling School], [Location]
- Diploma in Hair Styling, [Year]
Work Experience
Hair Stylist, [Salon Name], [Location]
- [Start Date] – [End Date]
- Consulted with clients to determine their hair styling needs and preferences.
- Provided a range of hair services such as haircuts, coloring, styling, and treatments.
- Recommended and sold hair care products to clients to maintain healthy hair.
- Stayed updated with the latest hair trends and techniques through continuous education.
- Managed appointment bookings and maintained a clean and organized work area.
Assistant Hair Stylist, [Salon Name], [Location]
- [Start Date] – [End Date]
- Assisted senior stylists in performing various hair services, including shampooing, conditioning, and blow-drying.
- Prepared clients for services and ensured their comfort throughout the salon visit.
- Maintained and sanitized hair tools and equipment.
- Managed inventory of hair care products and assisted with product recommendations to clients.
Skills
- Hair cutting and styling
- Hair coloring and highlighting
- Blow-drying and styling techniques
- Knowledge of hair care products
- Client consultation and communication
- Time management and appointment scheduling
Certifications
- [Name of Certification], [Year]
- [Name of Certification], [Year]
B. Functional Resume Example
Personal Information
- Name: [Your Name]
- Address: [Your Address]
- Phone: [Your Phone Number]
- Email: [Your Email Address]
Summary of Qualifications
- Highly skilled and creative Hair Stylist with [number] years of experience in providing a range of hair services.
- Proficient in hair cutting, coloring, styling, and treatments.
- Strong knowledge of different hair types and textures.
- Excellent client communication and consultation skills.
- Passionate about staying updated with the latest hair trends and techniques.
Areas of Expertise
- Hair cutting and styling
- Hair coloring and highlighting
- Hair treatments and conditioning
- Blow-drying and styling techniques
- Product recommendation and sales
- Client consultation and satisfaction
Work Experience
Hair Stylist, [Salon Name], [Location]
- [Start Date] – [End Date]
- Provided customized hair services to clients based on their needs and preferences.
- Demonstrated expertise in hair cutting, coloring, and styling techniques.
- Educated clients on proper hair care and recommended suitable hair care products.
- Built and maintained a loyal client base through excellent customer service and satisfaction.
Assistant Hair Stylist, [Salon Name], [Location]
- [Start Date] – [End Date]
- Assisted senior stylists in various hair services, ensuring client comfort and satisfaction.
- Prepared clients for hair treatments and assisted with shampooing, conditioning, and blow-drying.
- Managed salon cleanliness and organization.
- Supported retail sales by recommending hair care products to clients.
Education
- [Name of Hair Styling School], [Location]
- Diploma in Hair Styling, [Year]
Certifications
- [Name of Certification], [Year]
- [Name of Certification], [Year]
Additional Skills
- Proficient in using hair care tools and equipment
- Knowledge of the latest hair trends and styles
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Strong attention to detail
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
C. Combination Resume Example
Personal Information
- Name: [Your Name]
- Address: [Your Address]
- Phone: [Your Phone Number]
- Email: [Your Email Address]
Summary
Experienced and creative Hair Stylist with a strong passion for creating unique and stylish looks. Adept at providing exceptional customer service and ensuring client satisfaction. Proficient in a wide range of hair services, including cutting, coloring, styling, and treatments.
Education
- [Name of Hair Styling School], [Location]
- Diploma in Hair Styling, [Year]
Work Experience
Hair Stylist, [Salon Name], [Location]
- [Start Date] – [End Date]
- Consulted with clients to determine their hair styling needs and preferences.
- Provided a range of hair services such as haircuts, coloring, styling, and treatments.
- Recommended and sold hair care products to clients to maintain healthy hair.
- Stayed updated with the latest hair trends and techniques through continuous education.
- Managed appointment bookings and maintained a clean and organized work area.
Assistant Hair Stylist, [Salon Name], [Location]
- [Start Date] – [End Date]
- Assisted senior stylists in performing various hair services, including shampooing, conditioning, and blow-drying.
- Prepared clients for services and ensured their comfort throughout the salon visit.
- Maintained and sanitized hair tools and equipment.
- Managed inventory of hair care products and assisted with product recommendations to clients.
Skills
- Hair cutting and styling
- Hair coloring and highlighting
- Blow-drying and styling techniques
- Knowledge of hair care products
- Client consultation and communication
- Time management and appointment scheduling
Certifications
- [Name of Certification], [Year]
- [Name of Certification], [Year]
Additional Information
- Portfolio: [Link to your online portfolio or website showcasing your work]
- References: Available upon request
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When crafting a Hair Stylist Resume, there are a few common mistakes to avoid that can cost you job opportunities.
A. Omitting Relevant Information
One of the most significant challenges job seekers face when creating their resume is deciding which information to include and omit. However, it’s essential to remember that your resume should highlight your qualifications and work experience to help you stand out from the rest. A common mistake is omitting relevant information that may showcase your potential as a Hair Stylist.
It’s crucial to include key details such as your certifications, training or education, and work experience in the beauty industry. Your job responsibilities and achievements as a stylist should also be listed to demonstrate your expertise and potential value to a potential employer.
B. Spelling and Grammatical Errors
Spelling and grammatical errors demonstrate a lack of attention to detail and could lead to your resume being discarded. To avoid careless mistakes, proofread your resume several times or ask a friend or family member to review it for you.
Additionally, utilize a grammar-checking tool or hire a professional editor to ensure that your resume is error-free. It’s crucial to present yourself as a professional, and errors on your resume can instantly detract from your credibility.
C. Lying on your Resume
One of the most critical mistakes to avoid on your Hair Stylist Resume is lying or exaggerating your experience, skills, or qualifications. Along with the potential damage to your reputation, it could cost you job opportunities and harm your career prospects in the long run.
Instead, be honest about your skills and experience to showcase your strengths accurately. If you feel that you lack certain skills or expertise, consider investing in training or networking to advance your education and qualifications.
Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed and selected for an interview. Be sure to review your Hair Stylist Resume thoroughly, include all relevant information, and present yourself professionally to make a positive impression on potential employers.
Tailoring your Hair Stylist Resume
A. Customizing your Resume
As a hair stylist, you know the importance of customization. Just as you tailor each haircut to meet the specific needs of your client, you should also tailor your resume to the specific needs of the employer you are applying to.
To begin customizing your resume, start by carefully reading the job posting. Highlight any specific skills or qualifications that the employer is looking for. Then, review your own experience and accomplishments and identify which of these align with the employer’s requirements.
Make sure to highlight these relevant skills and qualifications prominently on your resume. Consider using a summary or objective statement at the top of your resume to quickly and effectively communicate your most relevant experience and qualifications.
Additionally, be sure to use relevant keywords throughout your resume. Many employers use applicant tracking systems to sort through resumes before they are even seen by a human. By incorporating the same keywords that appear in the job posting, you increase your chances of making it past the initial screening process.
B. Cover Letter
Your cover letter is another opportunity to customize your application to the employer’s needs. Rather than simply rehashing the information in your resume, use your cover letter to show why you would be the ideal candidate for the specific role.
Start by researching the employer and their hair salon or spa. What sets them apart from other businesses in the industry? What is their mission or philosophy?
Use your research to craft a personalized opening paragraph that shows you understand the employer and their needs. For example, you might mention how impressed you are by their commitment to eco-friendly hair products, or how you admire their focus on creating a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for every client.
Next, highlight your most relevant skills and experience. Rather than simply listing your accomplishments, focus on how these accomplishments make you the ideal candidate for the role. For example, you might explain how your experience creating custom color blends would allow you to meet the salon’s goal of offering personalized, trendsetting styles to each client.
Finally, close your cover letter by thanking the employer for their time and consideration, and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with their team. Be sure to provide your contact information and indicate that you look forward to hearing back from them.
By customizing both your resume and your cover letter to the specific needs of the employer, you increase your chances of standing out as a top candidate for the role. With your exceptional skills and qualifications, and a tailored application that shows you understand the employer’s needs, you are well on your way to landing your next great hair stylist job.
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