Employment as a barber or cosmetologist does not offer a high paying career, but it does provide the opportunity to work for yourself. To become licensed for practice in this field it will be important to investigate the standards set by the State you will be working in. Each State may have different requirements which will require additional training when a personal appearance workers moves to another State. Educational programs for this field can be located at many technical and trade schools.
The work involved as a barber or cosmetologist allows the provider to spend their day making people feel good. The job allows for a flexible schedule with no limitations to hours worked for the enterprising worker. Working in a salon will require continuous time spent standing, but also provides the social outlet of talking to customers.
A full time technical school program will require approximately nine months before becoming certified. Additional courses for manicures, pedicures and skin care take much less time. In addition to being talented in personal care, students must have excellent people skills. Building cliental and retaining clients is an important aspect of success in the field.
Attending a technical school to obtain a barber of cosmetologist license is a cost effective process for an individual interested in this type of work. The medial hourly wage is approximately twelve dollars per hour with an expected increase as a client base is established. Employment in the field of personal appearance is expected to grow 20% by 2018. This growth promises extensive opportunities for the newly certified barber or beautician.