Most beauty schools offer career services to help graduates find employment. But the quality and scope of these services varies dramatically. Some schools have strong salon relationships and high placement rates; others provide minimal support. Understanding what's available—and how to maximize it—helps you transition from student to employed professional.
Typical Career Services Offered
Here's what most beauty schools provide through career services.
- Resume writing assistance and review
- Interview preparation and mock interviews
- Job board access and job listings
- Salon partnerships and recruitment events
- Portfolio development guidance
- Licensing exam preparation support
- Networking events with salon owners
Evaluating a School's Career Services
Before enrolling, investigate the school's career support. Ask these questions.
- What's your graduate employment rate?
- How long does it typically take graduates to find work?
- Which salons do you have relationships with?
- Do you host salon recruitment events?
- What specific job placement assistance do you provide?
- Can I speak with recent graduates about their experience?
- Is career support available after graduation? For how long?
Pro tip: Be skeptical of vague employment statistics. Ask for specifics: employment in the field, within what timeframe, at what compensation level.
Maximizing Career Services
Career services can only help if you engage proactively.
- Introduce yourself to career services staff early—not just at graduation
- Attend every career event and salon visit
- Use resume and portfolio review services
- Practice interviewing, even if it feels awkward
- Ask about salons that have hired graduates
- Request introductions to salon owners they know
- Follow up on leads promptly
School-Salon Relationships
The best schools build strong relationships with local salons for student placement.
- Salons visit campus for recruitment presentations
- Direct referrals from instructors to salon owners
- Internship or externship programs
- Salon owners teach guest classes
- Priority consideration for school graduates
- Working trials arranged through the school
Career Support Beyond Graduation
Some schools offer ongoing support; others cut off at graduation.
- Alumni job boards and networks
- Continuing education discounts
- Refresher courses for those returning to the industry
- Career counseling for job changers
- Networking events for alumni
- Ongoing access to job listings
When to Go Beyond Career Services
Don't rely solely on your school. Take charge of your own job search.
- Build your own portfolio and social media presence
- Network independently at industry events
- Research and approach salons you admire
- Use ChairTribe and other job platforms
- Ask working stylists for advice and referrals
- Consider salons outside your school's network
Career Services Red Flags
Watch for signs that a school's career services won't help you.
- Vague or unverifiable employment statistics
- No relationships with local salons
- Career services staff who aren't responsive
- No job fairs or salon recruitment events
- Recent graduates struggling to find work
- "Career services" that are just a job board link
- Support ends immediately at graduation
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Career services can help connect you with opportunities, but getting hired depends on your skills, attitude, and interview performance. Schools that "guarantee" employment often have fine print (like any job, not necessarily in your field).
Yes, it's a factor to consider—but not the only one. Strong training, good instructors, and reputation matter more for long-term success. A great school with modest career services beats a weak school with aggressive job placement.
Take your job search into your own hands. Build your portfolio, network independently, use job platforms like ChairTribe, and approach salons directly. Many successful stylists found their first job without school assistance.