September 02, 2009 
My hairdresser began experimenting, cutting his own hair at 13 and found himself cutting over fifty of his friends’ hair. Through the support of Department of Children and Family Services, he converted this hobby into a technical degree that allows his confidence to grow and opportunities to unfold. For David, technical school was as good as more expensive cosmetology schools: the real learning occurs behind the chair. A salon owner at 25, he attributes success to skills, focus, discipline, business and negotiation skills, but mostly the ability to connect with clients.
Many military spouses don’t stay anywhere long enough to own a salon, so I spoke with a spouse hairdresser. Kelly got her cosmetology degree before getting married to the military. She had become a salon’s receptionist, then an assistant, and eventually a stylist. Kelly’s career is portable—working five years in California entitles her to reciprocity in all states. If she moved, she would look for a less high-end salon, relying on walk-ins until she could really network.
Cosmetology school offers specialization in nails, facials, massage, or make-up. Gina, an entrepreneurial make-up artist, worked first in the mall, then at a high-end make-up studio, and now is pursuing her own business. She does make-up for Military Balls, Proms, and Weddings. She said it’s a great career for military spouses because the industry is big with something for everyone. While she can’t imagine doing anything else she gets frustrated at how long it takes to gain name recognition, so she is shifting to marketing—promoting her new website and using social networking and of course wearing great make up and relying on word of mouth.
Other entrepreneurial spouses prefer structured home-based businesses that provide mentoring and training over creating one. Several spouses sell make-up, health products, or jewelry part time. I often steer spouses away from risky endeavors that solicit initial investments, and don’t often work in saturated markets over time. I have witnessed countless spouses that have lost money by “investing” in what seems like a great idea but then find out how hard it actually is for them to sell the product they got themselves suckered into soliciting. However, Melissa and Lisa, spouses who had a natural knack for selling still felt the overall experience was a positive one in that they left the experience with some new ideas of what they really want and some transferable skills.
Melissa, a 3-year military spouse, began selling jewelry, transitioning from a traditional job. She earned her initial investment back at her first jewelry show but decided that while she was making great friends and keeping her sales skills fresh, she preferred a more stable work environment and a stable paycheck. Melissa decided she wanted to pursue a job in the industry and shared, “If you come into a traditional business setting and work with the same ambition and charisma you had when you were working for yourself you will be valuable to your employer and your counterparts.” She realized she could do what she loves, but didn’t need the pressures of owning her own business. Before making any type of financial investment, ask yourself if sales is really your calling.
Lisa was also attracted to direct-sales in beauty products, but more determined to be her own boss. She made her initial investment of $150.00 back in two weeks and shared that while selling is harder than she thought, the experience has improved her communication, public speaking, and time-management skills. Lisa enjoys the portability of her career and manages to sell essentials like shampoo (even in our current economy); her network prefers buying from someone they know, like, and trust. Lisa has business savvy and tracks SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, and Realistic), and adds Enthusiastic. Lisa suggests embracing your true interests and knowing your values and then looking for a business opportunity that supports it.
Tips on selling beauty products and services:
Get your hands dirty: Cosmetology school or training in a particular area is only the first step. To become a great hairdresser or convincing beauty sales consultant you need to get out there and practice and not be afraid to put yourself out there and try on your new skills on a daily basis until you get known.
Don’t be shy: All these professionals agree that marketing and building clients is key to success. Because many home-based businesses are fighting saturated markets, learn creative ways to market and make sure you enjoy sales if you decide to take this route. Attend training and mentoring groups, look beyond your military community, and tap into the bigger local market.
Look the part: Model attractive make-up and hair so others will ask for your card (and keep it with you!). Be organized, responsible, professional, and prepared, keeping track of your clients and commitments; showing up at appointments on time. Look happy! You will attract more sales, and smile at earning a extra money!
Get your beauty sleep: Doing make-up, facials, massages, or hair all day is hard work; it’s important to maintain good physical shape, and maintain balance with lots of rest. If you burn out, consider writing health and beauty articles or a book, pursue teaching or training in an area you love, or speak at spa conventions. In a career focused on pampering others, be sure you are caring for yourself and your needs.
Professional Organizations:
National Cosmetology Association: www.salonprofessionals.org
International Association of Clothing Designers: www.iacde.com
Web Resources:
Listing of Cosmetology schools: www.beautyschoolsdirectory.com
Hair dressing jobs: behindthechair.com
Salon jobs: www.salonjobs.com
Hair dressing resources: www.prohairstylist.com
Make-up artist resources: www.proartist.com
Make-up artist jobs: www.makeupartistjobs.com
Related jobs in technical areas: www.union.com
Broad listing of home-based businesses (some related to beauty products): www.npros.com
In addition to being an entrepreneur, Lisa is a military spouse business mentor through a military non-profit organization; to leave her your contact information, contact Krista at www.militaryspousecoach.com. Not sure what career to pursue? Sign up for a FREE tele-class this fall called DISCOVER WHAT YOU ARE BEST AT? For more information on this workshop e-mail Krista @ Krista@miltiaryspousecoach.com