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!
The Good Hair Blog 