"Employment Prospects For Beauticians,
Manicurists And Pedicurists"

Manicurists and Pedicurists - also referred to as nail technicians, individuals employed within this subset of the beauty field provide such services as nail extensions and nail art. They also file and shape nails.

Skin care specialists provide such services as cleansing and beautifying the skin with full-body treatments, facials and massages. They may also remove facial hair through waxing.

Beauty workers typically work a 40 hour week; although their schedule may be flexible. For example, many they may work Saturdays and are off on Mondays. Furthermore, depending on where they are employed, they may be able to work evenings rather than days to accommodate the schedule of working clients.

Employment Outlook for Beauticians

Although individuals employed in this field certainly may open their own businesses and become self-employed, in most cases they will find work in other venues such as:

• Beauty salons
• Barber shops
• Department stores
• Nursing homes
• Residential care homes.

Job Search for Beauticians

Individuals searching for work will find that open positions can be found through classified advertisements and networking.

Resumes for Beauticians

While not all employers within this field require a resume for consideration of an open position, it is always a good idea for candidates to have a resume prepared for those employers who do maintain a resume requirement.

A chronological or combination resume format works well when applying for employment in this field. The combination resume format allows the candidate a little more freedom in expressing experience and competency in various techniques.

Cover Letters for Beauticians

When applying for work in this field, if a cover letter is required, individuals should focus their letter on their experience and dedication to customer service.

Training & Qualifications for Beauticians

Although most states do require certification and/or licensure in order to become legally employed in this field, the various training required for occupations in the beautician field tend to vary. In most circumstances the training requirements are less intensive and lengthy than training required to become a hair stylist. State requirements do vary; however they usually include the requirement that the candidate be at least 16 years of age and have completed a State-licensed training program.

The licensure exam is normally composed of two components; a written portion and a practical skill demonstration. In order to work in other States candidates may or may not need to attain additional licensure, depending on the particular state(s) in which they wish to work.

There is room for advancement within this field, such as instructors, salon managers and eventually self-employment. Other opportunities include becoming an examiner for a State licensing board.

Due to the high level of competition for higher paying positions at more upscale salons, experts report that individuals with certifications to offer a broad range of services will have the greatest opportunities within this field.