Looking for the perfect job? The first thing you need to know is that 80% of positions available are never advertised.  In the corporate world, they are filled from within the organization, or from referrals, or from resumes that are on file.

Similarly, salons that are most desirable as potential employers never advertise because there are always enthusiastic stylists approaching them.

So how can you do it?

1. Know what you want in a salon.

Make a list of the qualities and benefits you are looking for in a salon. Ask yourself:

·      What is the salon’s image? How are they marketing themselves?

·      Who is their clientele?

·      Where’s the location and what is the size of salon?

·      What’s their pricing and pay structure?

·      What’s the average age of the team?

·      Do they offer education opportunities?

·      What product lines do they carry?

·      How long have they been in business?

·      Do they have a transition program to go from assistant to stylist?

2. Research salons you’d like to work at.

Once you have your wish list, you need to start your homework. 

Do some research – walk the areas you like and get to know the local salons.  Now that you have your narrowed down list of those that could be a fit, do more research.  Go on their website and Facebook page.  Find out who the owner is and the manager. Why? These are the people you want to connect with when dropping off your resume.

3. Prep your resume and cover letter properly.

After you have narrowed down your list, make sure your resume is current and appropriate for the position you are looking for.  A good resume is no more than two pages and should highlight your achievements—not the duties you performed.  (For a great read on how to do this, pick up a copy of BRAG by Peggy Klaus.)

Your cover letter has to be the star. Make it something that will be remembered. This is your opportunity to “sell” yourself to your future employer. 

Now you have to get your resume into the salons. 

4. Put your resume in the right hands.

Don’t make the mistake of walking in and asking to leave a resume. I have seen this so many times, and it shows indifference on the part of the job searcher.  Make sure you ask for the salon owner  in person. (After all, you have done your homework and know their name already.)

If they are not in the salon, ask when they will be in and leave the resume, politely asking the receptionist to please make sure that the owner gets both documents. Tell her that you will follow up with a phone call, and ask if there is a better time of the day to call. Then make sure you do follow up to arrange a chat with the owner.

5. Look the part.

Make sure you are well presented when you arrive– a reflection of the salon’s image and professionalism.  Speak articulately and pleasantly.  Remember, you also need to make a good impression on the front desk person. This is your opportunity to make a great first impression. Don’t blow it.

6. Start early.

You don’t have to wait until you are out of college to start your search.  Begin at least two months ahead of your graduation to make sure you land that great position in the salon of your dreams.

Find salon openings in Canada on Salon Magazine’s Job Board!

Marion Shaw is an author and a leading business coach/consultant in the beauty industry. She has been a stylist, salon owner and educator, and is now a sought after speaker at major shows and educational events, bringing ideas for success to industry professionals across the country. She shares her words of wisdom and other helpful resources for salon professionals for at www.mariongshaw.com.