The Career Center recently hosted a seminar on Careers in Cosmetology. Guest presenter Ce’Keisha Williams (known professionally as KeishaDstylist) offered insights about what she has learned from running a successful independent cosmetology business. If you missed the seminar, here are some of the main takeaways:
What does it take to succeed in this field?
Cosmetology is the professional skill or practice of beautifying the face, hair, skin, and nails. Cosmetologists can be hairstylists, makeup artists, nail technicians, or skin care specialists. But in order to make it in the industry, according to Cekeisha, one needs to sharpen one’s skills in these five areas: Identity, Integrity, Mentoring, Insecurities, and Inspiration.
Identity
- Know your strengths and weaknesses; likes and dislikes
- Know your interests to narrow down where you fit in the cosmetology field
- Personal branding
- Canceling appointments and being late negatively affect your identity as a cosmetologist
- Word of mouth is very important
Integrity
- How you present yourself
- Avoid cursing and unprofessional language
- Be punctual and reliable
- Maintain a professional appearance
- Separate professional life and personal life
- Be honest and genuine
Mentoring
- You are always learning; there is never a point in any field where you know everything
- Mentoring can help you reach new heights in your skill level
- A good mentor can provide opportunities professionally and open doors for you
CeKeisha describes the cosmetology field as a team where everyone helps build each other up. Most cosmetologists can’t make it on their own and can’t do everything themselves; they need the support of others to succeed.
Insecurities
- Work on your insecurities and weaknesses; turn them into confidence and strength
- Setting small goals for yourself can help you reach your larger goals
- For example, if you don’t like public speaking, you can try accompanying someone only talking some of the time before you present or teach by yourself.
- You may not become the best at whatever your weakness is but you can always improve.
Inspiration
CeKeisha also teaches cosmetology skills and strives to inspire others to follow their passions. Her passion is education, but yours might be hair, or nails, or something completely different. Whatever it is that inspires you, CeKeisha advises, use it to inspire others. She encourages everyone to share their talents and teach others what they know and learn from others as well.
Although CeKeisha approached the topic from the perspective of a cosmetologist, we found her advice to be useful for any jobseeker or entrepreneur. We hope that you are able to incorporate these themes into your own professional development.
Written by Kelly Brown