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If you have a passion for beauty, getting paid to teach others can be a dream come true. As with any career, it’s important to plan carefully and understand the challenges you might face. Today, we’ll explore why cosmetology instruction might be the right move for you.
Why Become a Cosmetology Instructor?
The primary reason to pursue higher education in cosmetology is that instructors typically earn more than cosmetologists. According to Glassdoor, cosmetology instructors earn between $74,000 and $134,000, which is well above the $66,000 average salary for a cosmetologist.
Cosmetology instructors typically have a base salary, meaning more consistent pay than commission-based cosmetologists. They may also work for a school, which promises standard hours and less need for marketing.
As a result, cosmetology instructors can continue to share their passion for beauty while enjoying improved working conditions and reduced stress.
With that out of the way, let’s explore the steps involved in becoming an instructor and helping others become their most beautiful selves.
Check State Licensing
Each state has its own licensing standards, but most require you to have at least a few years of relevant work experience, completed instructor training, and a certain number of practical hours.
For example, North Dakota requires an active cosmetology license, 1-2 years of work experience, and 2500 hours of training from a state-approved cosmetology program. You will also need to pass the licensing exam and complete regular continuing education.
South Dakota is more relaxed, requiring 1,000 hours of practice and passing a junior apprentice program before licensing.
Understanding the state requirements helps you plan your career timeline and ensure that you complete work with the end goal in mind.
Attend Cosmetology School
Most instructors are cosmetologists themselves who want to transition from the salon chair to the teacher’s desk. Specialized programs, such as those from Paul Mitchell, help you understand the theories behind instruction, as well as the practical hands-on skills to explain different parts of the styling process.
In addition to attending classes, you’ll also need documented practical hours of cosmetology training. Most potential instructors continue working while they attend classes, regularly logging their hours to prove they meet the requirements.
Studying for the licensing exam is also important. In addition to your cosmetology school, consider signing up for a course to help you pass with flying colors.
Continue Your Education
Many states, such as North Dakota, require you to complete a certain number of continuing education hours to maintain your license. These must be provided by a state-approved program and completed by the time your license comes up for renewal.
Fortunately, there are many online continuing education courses, so you don’t have to schedule classroom time during the day.
You must sign up for continuing education credits that are approved by your state, like North Dakota cosmetology instructor continuing education. Otherwise, they won’t count toward your license renewal.
Courses like this cover instructor methodology, lesson planning, and tailoring lessons to specific learner types. Not only does this keep you in compliance with your licensing needs, but it also helps you become a better teacher and learn how to motivate your students.
Look for programs that name your state to ensure they meet the requirements. A good program will also provide lifetime access so that you can brush up on your skills later.
Stay Alert to Trends
Your cosmetology students don’t just want to learn the basics of applying makeup or doing hair; they want to provide trendy looks their own clients will love. Adapting your lesson plans to the hottest makeup trends will keep your students motivated while also teaching them key elements of good service.
For example, retro makeup is very in demand right now as women seek to emulate the beauty of stars like Twiggy or Bridgette Bardot. Incorporating this into your lesson plans, alongside modalities such as Korean beauty, will help students distinguish among techniques so they can adapt their training to clients’ needs. It also provides a golden opportunity to discuss things like how different materials will look different on certain people or how to choose the right color palette while remaining on trend.
Cosmetology Instruction Isn’t Just Skin Deep
Becoming a cosmetology instructor helps you encourage other beauty-minded individuals. Whether you’re in North Dakota or California, this is a hot job path that can make a significant difference in your students’ careers.
Cosmetology requires a significant time investment, training, and practice, which is all well worth the reward. By understanding licensing standards, gaining real-world experience, and continuing your education, you can gain life satisfaction and a stable career, one brush stroke or haircut at a time.
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