There are many different responsibilities that a cosmetologist will have to take on. While some may be more general, most are actually specific skills pertaining to different kinds of beauty services. Most cosmetologists spend the majority of their time with cutting and styling their clients’ hair. Additionally, hair coloring, straightening and curling also represent a significant chunk of time. From there, cosmetologists often provide other services including manicures, pedicures and various other treatments.
A cosmetologist has to be customer service friendly and has to be knowledgeable about their position and their clients’ needs. This means being able to pick the best hair style for a confused client or being able to instruct a client on how to use a product they purchase on their own at home.
Additionally, for the cosmetologist who owns their own salon rather than working for another, you’ll also need to have basic business skills. You’ll have to keep track of inventory, market your business and keep track of expenses and other accounting needs.
Depending on where you work and how much staff there is at a particular time, you’ll find you’ll also need to occasionally take on the task of shampooing hair before a cut or cleaning the studio.