The Good Hair Blog

Tag: Hairdresser Money Advice

  • 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!