For the first time since U.S. News & World Report began publishing its annual list of Best Careers, hairstylist/cosmetologist made the list. A total of four so-called non-college careers made the Best Careers 2008 list. These careers are: Biomedical equipment technician, firefighter, locksmith/security system technician and hairstylist/cosmetologist.

The changing job scene made U.S. News reassess its tradition of only including careers that typically require a bachelor’s degree. More and more holders of bachelor’s degree are finding it difficult to find jobs due primarily to the growing trend of employers to send professional jobs “offshore.” Secondly, because most high school educators encourage students to go to college, there’s a growing shortage of skilled people in jobs that don’t require college. Just consider the hourly cost of hiring a plumber or Electrician!

As companies continue to increase off-shoring efforts, both high school and college graduates are looking to skilled blue-color careers because of the availability of jobs along with the financial rewards.

High Job Satisfaction

There are many reasons to pursue a career in Cosmetology, including:

• Clientele tend to be loyal to their hairstylist
• Demand is high for well-trained, licensed Cosmetologists
• Cosmetology services won’t be sent offshore
• Staying current with trends in the fashion industry

But, do you have what it takes to become a successful Cosmetologist? In addition to being naturally creative – turning a hair design concept into a great haircut -- you need the following attributes:

• Pleasant, outgoing personality
• Be a good listener
• Possess creative talent in fashion and design
• Clientele development skills
• Low-pressure sales skills to promote salon's hair and skincare products

There are a few downsides to a Cosmetology career , such as:

• Working unconventional hours, i.e., evenings and weekends
• Standing on your feet all day
• Working with chemicals
• A thick-skinned temperament to react well to dissatisfied clients

Once Cosmetology students graduate from a state-licensed beauty school, like Salon Success Academy, and pass the state licensure exams, she or he needs to be realistic and prepared to start their career with a low salary until their skills have improved and they’ve developed a client base.

A Wealth of Opportunity

Career opportunities are virtually endless. As a licensed Cosmetologist, you can work in a variety of settings, including:

• salon or spa
• on a cruise ship
• in a dermatologist’s or reconstructive surgeon’s office
• working with models at fashion shows
• retail or corporate sales and marketing
• as a manufacturer’s sales rep
• a beauty magazine writer or editor
  ...or gain true independence by starting your own business!!

Or, perhaps, your abundant creative talents will take you to celebrity status as a stylist to the stars!!

About Salon Success Academies(SSA)

Salon Success Academies have five campuses located in California's Inland Empire: Redlands, Fontana, Upland, San Bernardino, and Corona. SSA's philosophy is to treat each student as a part of the family, providing them with every opportunity to complete their studies at the lowest cost possible. SSA combines hands-on practical application with cosmetology, skin care, or nail technology concepts. The school partners with the beauty industry to enable students to graduate with technical excellence in their profession as well as strong customer service skills.
To learn more and request free information, visit www.gotobeautyschool.com.

PR contact: Robert Gross or Susan Turner
Tel: 909-982-4200