What does a beautician do?
Beauticians analyse client needs, give advice, and perform beauty treatments and services. Those services vary depending on the environment that the beautician works in but could include applying make-up, performing facials, hair removal, hair styling, and body treatments. Beauticians also often have a role in selling beauty products and handling sales transactions, as well as booking appointments and keeping client records.
Tasks:
- Analyse client needs and provide advice
- Deliver beauty treatments and services
- Sell beauty products and recommend appropriate treatments
- Handle sales transactions and perform other client-based administration tasks
What skills do I need to be a beautician?
Beauticians need to be well presented, with excellent interpersonal skills. They must have tact, empathy and a strong focus on customer service. It is helpful for beauticians to have some administration skills so they are able to efficiently handle record keeping and cash handling, and an attention to detail is also important for those wishing to be succeed in this industry.
- Well presented
- Creative flair and ability to keep abreast of industry trends and styles
- Strong people and customer service skills
- Administrative skills
Specialisations
Due to the diverse and dynamic nature of the beauty therapy industry, there are numerous specialisations for beauticians to pursue. One of the most popular paths beauticians choose is to specialise in a particular type of service or treatment, such as make-up artistry or nail treatments. Others choose to become spa therapists and work exclusively in day spas. Many experienced beauticians also decide to utilise their customer service, sales and administration experience to move into management roles or to even start up their own beauty salon.
Specialised beautician
Spa therapists
Salon management
Study pathways for beauticians
Becoming a beautician requires a minimum of a certificate III level qualification in beauty therapy. Most beauticians choose to complete a longer course of study, generally a certificate IV or diploma.
Getting Started
A certificate can be a valuable way to learn the foundations of beauty therapy and understand the basics of the industry.
Skill Building
Beauticians wishing to build on their existing skill set can complete a range of certificate level qualifications that would give them additional understanding of particular types of treatments.
Professional Development
Senior beauticians keen to take on management responsibilities or owning their own salon would benefit from studying the business side of salon management.
Industry Recognition
It is not essential to be industry-certified to work as a beautician in Australia, but joining professional bodies can open up more employment opportunities for you.
Getting a job after graduation
Be sure to put your training to good use. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to beautician jobs.