How can I gain experience in the beauty industry if no one gives me a chance?

[Namii]

Hello,
I'm fully qualified beauty therapist NVQ Level 2 and a Level 3 in theatrical hair and makeup but have only worked on a brow bar for a few months. I cannot get a job in the industry as every employer requires their therapists to have 2 years plus experience. How am I to gain experience if no one will give me a chance? Should I just keep practising on friends and family? It's the only thing I can think of doing. Any advice is welcome, thank you.

 

[Iseeiwant]

Don't lose hope! I struggled to find a job in the industry for a long while. I think being a mature student put some people off, but i've finally managed to secure a p/t job at a local salon. It can be frustrating at times but you will get there in the end. Xx

 

[skin-deep-beauty]

You can always work self employed to get going

 

[Namii]

Don't lose hope! I struggled to find a job in the industry for a long while. I think being a mature student put some people off, but i've finally managed to secure a p/t job at a local salon. It can be frustrating at times but you will get there in the end. Xx

Thank you for your comment, I will keep trying. I, too, was a mature student, qualified in 2015 but never really used my skills! Now I'm not feeling so confident with treatments its been so long. I try to practise on friends and family but its finding the time I guess. Nothing to do but keep going, eh? Just keep swimming, just keep swimming....

 

[Namii]

You can always work self employed to get going

Thank you for your comment. Yes, I thought of that but have recently moved and don't know anyone around this area really so I don't have any clients atm. It's a shame because I wouldn't charge full price at first of course as I haven't the experience but then word of mouth would travel wouldn't it? I'll keep on with friends and family

 

[blossom]

Thank you for your comment. Yes, I thought of that but have recently moved and don't know anyone around this area really so I don't have any clients atm. It's a shame because I wouldn't charge full price at first of course as I haven't the experience but then word of mouth would travel wouldn't it? I'll keep on with friends and family

Absolutely, don't underestimate word of mouth . And of course it's free! When I was building my clientele I offered both parties £5 off next visit, it was amazing how many people they found to send my way lol, one lady had a freebie as she sent 5 people in three weeks! Good luck

 

[Beauty belle19]

Not sure if it's something you've thought about or would be interested in but a spa is always a good first beauty job. I worked at a spa for around 9 months straight from college and although it wasn't for me, did find it opened up lots of opportunities in the industry. It's great to get your timings perfect and perhaps gain more qualifications.

Also don't be put off applying for a job if it says experience is needed..if you send a cover letter along with a good cv showing your qualifications and other jobs you've had that can be related to beauty and they may give you a chance. I'd be totally honest and say you are enthusiastic and would love the opportunity. In my experience, some employers would see a newly qualified therapist who is keen to learn as an advantage.

Good luck whatever you decide xx

 

[skin-deep-beauty]

Thank you for your comment. Yes, I thought of that but have recently moved and don't know anyone around this area really so I don't have any clients atm. It's a shame because I wouldn't charge full price at first of course as I haven't the experience but then word of mouth would travel wouldn't it? I'll keep on with friends and family

Absolutely don't underestimate word of mouth,your local community boards on Facebook are great to advertise on, also local school events can be a great foot in the door. You can offer a couple of freebies to get going and offers and discounts spread the word. Good luck!

 

[laurakate]

Definitely apply to some spas. They always need people and take lots of people after college. See if you can do a level 3 body massage course to enhance your application.