Have you finished your nail course, and are looking for your first job in the professional sector? While many colleges and academies help with employability pointers, here are my top tips to nail your first application:
1. Create your CV.
Your CV needs to be up-to-date, and feature information that is relevant to the job you are applying for. For instance, if you don’t have salon experience but have worked within a bakery, think of the transferable skills and put this in the description. For instance:
During my time at college, I worked part-time within a busy bakery and café. My roles included customer liaison, achieving daily sales targets, handling money, using till and credit card systems, following heath & safety protocols and cleaning.
Listing these skills show the salon owner you have good customer service experience, you can be trusted with transactions, and will be confident in reception duties. It also demonstrates a willing to help with general salon duties. This was on my CV for many years, as it was my first job when I began my college training in 1998. Everyone starts somewhere!
2. Create a portfolio.
Compile photos of your work and create a portfolio. Do this on Dropbox, via a OneDrive file or via an Instagram account. Photos should be clear and crisp, and showcase your range of skills. When taking photos of your work, ensure the background is clean, free from dust and without obstructions.
A portfolio represents your professionalism, so arrange for someone to take photos of you at work or behind a nail desk, and to photograph you on a plain background so you have a headshot. Not all potential employers ask for a headshot, but it’s best to be prepared. Wear your uniform or a smart work outfit.
3. Prepare for the interview.
Ensure you research into the company, as you’re more than likely going to be asked ‘what do you know about us?’ and ‘why do you want to work here?’ Keep your answers relevant to the salon. If you’re asked for instance ‘where do you see yourself in 2 years?‘, your potential employer doesn’t want to hear you’re wanting to build your clients and then start working mobile or somewhere else, as they will want someone who is dedicated to the salon. A perfect answer would be ‘I would like to see me have a full column of regular, returning clients in the salon. I want to be meeting all sales and retail targets set.‘ You could also mention promotion if that’s a possibility where you are applying.
4. Nail the interview.
The interview is the stage to sell yourself and explain why you would be an asset to the salon. First impressions count, so attend the interview in business dress or a beauty uniform. Ensure your nails are groomed and showcase your skill, as they are your calling card! I have interviewed nail techs who have arrived in gym clothing, which did not make a great first impression. Put all belongings in a handbag: do not place your phone in front of a potential new employer, and ensure it is turned off or on a silent mode without vibration, so there are no distractions. At the end of the interview, do not be scared to ask your own questions. Also enquire about the next stage of the process and when a decision is expected to be made.
5. Nail the trade test.
The final stage of an interview process for a nail or beauty role is usually a trade test. This is where you will go into the salon and carry out a treatment. My advice is to treat the trade test like the first day working in the salon: sell yourself! Ensure you come dressed in an appropriate and presentable manner and are well groomed, with neat hair, make-up and nails. Be polite, chatty and get to know the other staff and clients.
A few years ago, I trade tested an applicant called Abby for a role at my salon, Beauty Lounge. She excelled at the treatment stage and, when finished, said that she was going to clean down and do a few salon duties before she left. I thought she was just tidying up after her treatment, but she went above and beyond: washing pots and cleaning the kitchen. I didn’t expect this, but it showed Abby’s initiative and willing to support the team.
Job hunting
To find a role in the nail sector, follow local salons on social media, contact your local job centre and look on recruitment websites. If you struggle to see many vacancies, consider posting or emailing your CV and a covering letter to salons you are interested in working at. Many will keep this on file if you permit it, and can contact you if a role becomes available. Avoid sending casual social media messages asking about jobs, as this doesn’t look professional.
Enjoy your career in the nail industry!