Take Charge of the Business Side of a Beauty Salon--Study to Become a Salon Manager

If you want to work in the world of hair and beauty on the business side, perhaps a career in salon management is for you. By earning a comprehensive beauty education at a cosmetology school, you can be on your way to a rewarding and diversified career in salon management.

To manage a salon, it is helpful to have a background in hair styling or to have taken related cosmetology courses. In addition to beauty training courses, you need to learn effective business practices, such as payroll, accounting, purchasing, and customer service.

What Qualifications Does a Salon Manager Need?

Most salon managers have either completed a beauty education program or have taken basic beauty training courses. In fact, it is common for employers to require a cosmetology license to work as a salon manager.

Often, salon managers are experienced hair stylists and estheticians who want a new challenge. If you are serious about a career in salon management but don't have any cosmetology training or experience, then your first step should be to enroll in a salon management course at a beauty college.

Other qualifications useful in salon management are a business diploma or management degree from a college or university.

What Does a Salon Manager Do?

The daily tasks of a salon manager are varied. They include:

Ensuring that staff members are educated on the latest trends and techniques
Adhering to the company budget and monitoring expenditures
Managing all levels of staff, including stylists, technicians, and support personnel
Monitoring employees' sales performances and creating sales targets
Ensuring that the proper salon image is maintained at all times
Reporting any misconduct to the managing directors
Creating staff training and development programs
Doing payroll, invoicing, and human resources paperwork
Completing banking duties

A salon management position can be fast-paced and challenging, but it is a rewarding and exciting career for those who enjoy being in charge and connecting with a variety of people. Many salon managers earn a starting salary near $30,000, with the potential to make much more as they gain experience, and depending on the area and type of salon. Contact your local beauty college to learn more about careers in salon management.