Your First Year Behind the Chair: What to Expect (and How to Survive It!)

So, you’re about to start your hairdressing career — congratulations, babe! You’ve made it through beauty school, and now it’s time to hit the salon floor. But real talk: do you know what to expect in your first year?

If no one has told you yet — welcome to the inside scoop. I’m here to break it down, keep it real, and give you the heads-up I wish someone had given me when I was a baby hairdresser. Let’s dive in!

💸 Let’s Talk Money, Honey!

First things first — will you be rolling in cash right away?
Spoiler alert: probably not.

Here’s the honest truth:

• You won’t make crazy money right away. It takes time to build a solid clientele and see a good paycheck.
• Be prepared for unexpected obstacles — things like slow days, no-shows, and cancellations.
• You might need a side hustle (no shame in that game) to support yourself while you’re growing your business.

💡 Consider Assisting!

If you can, assist in a salon that offers education. It may not make you rich, but it’ll give you a steady income andpriceless hands-on training. Think of it as getting paid to learn (plus tips!).

💡 Booth Rental & Suites — Not Always First-Year Friendly

Sure, being your own boss sounds fab — but booth rental and salon suites take time to build. You’ll need a solid client base to keep up with rent and expenses, so it might not be the best first step.

💡 Chain Salons = Steady Paycheck (and Benefits!)

If you’re after a consistent paycheck and possible benefits like health insurance, working at a chain salon can be a great launchpad to gain experience and earn while you learn.

🎓 Education & Training — Never Stop Learning!

Let’s be real: you don’t stop learning when you leave beauty school. Your first year is all about leveling up!

🧡 Apprenticeships

If you land an apprenticeship, take full advantage! You’ll get:

• Mentorship from experienced stylists
• A team mentality and support system
• A safe space to grow your confidence

🧡 Stay Curious

Even if you’re on your own, seek out education:

• Take classes (online or in person!)
• Ask questions — lots of them!
• Shadow stylists you admire — nothing beats watching pros work in real time.

✂️ Skills to Master First:

• Cutting
• Styling
• Color
• Updos and event hair

Once you’ve got the basics down, you can branch out into extensions, smoothing treatments, specialty color, and cuts.

🌎 Learn All Hair Types

Important PSA: There is no such thing as “difficult hair” — only a lack of knowledge. Take the time to educate yourself on all hair types and textures, so you can confidently serve every client who sits in your chair.

📋 Know Your Price Menu + Products

• Know what your salon offers — so you’re ready when clients ask.
• Learn the products you’re using — not to sell, but to prescribe the right care to keep your clients’ hair healthy (think of yourself like a hair doctor, not a salesperson).

💖 Building a Clientele — Your #1 Goal!

This is the most important part of your first year — building a clientele that will keep you booked and busy!

Here are my top 4 rules that I swear by:

1. Walk-Ins Are Gold

Treat every walk-in like a VIP. Blow them away, and you’ll turn them into loyal clients.

2. Word of Mouth

Happy clients = free advertising. Don’t be shy — ASK for referrals! People love to share a great experience.

3. Pre-Book, Always!

Want a steady income? Pre-book EVERY client before they leave. This is hands down your best insurance for a full book.

4. The 80/20 Rule (Listen More Than You Talk!)

During the service:

• You talk 20%, client talks 80%.
• Why? Because listening builds trust and connection. Clients love to feel heard.
• Bonus: You’ll learn exactly what they want (and avoid misunderstandings).

😬 Redos — Yep, They’ll Happen (and It’s Okay!)

Let’s normalize the redo. It happens to EVERYONE — even seasoned stylists.

Here’s how to handle it like a pro:

• Don’t take it personally. Seriously, don’t. If you get defensive, things can spiral fast.
• Stay calm. Take a breath — this isn’t the end of the world.
• Communicate. Most redos are just misunderstandings — either on your end or the client’s. Talk it out and own your part if needed.
• Never argue. If your client is upset, don’t match that energy — stay professional and focus on a solution.
• Find a resolution. Whether it’s adjusting a cut, tweaking a color, or creating a grow-out plan, do your best to make it right.
• Know you won’t fix them all. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a client won’t be happy. That’s part of the job — and it’s okay.

✨ Final Thoughts: You’re in Control of Your First Year!

Your first year behind the chair is what you make of it. You’ll have ups and downs, wins and redos — but with the right mindset, you’ll build a strong foundation for a long, successful career.

Remember:

• Be patient. Great things take time.
• Stay disciplined. Keep learning, keep showing up.
• Build connections. With clients, with peers, with mentors.
• Stay kind to yourself. You’re learning. Give yourself grace.

💬 Got questions about your first year? Drop them below — let’s help each other out!