The 6 Figure Hairtylist

I recently heard a prominent beauty industry educator say “ Don’t even get me started on the ‘6 figure stylist’. Aren’t we over that yet?” ……..uhhhhh, what????

Frankly, I thought it was such an unempowering, demotivating and, dare I say, ignorant comment. But, it got me thinking about why this topic is so important and why we, as hairstylists, deserve to make at least 6 figures in our businesses. Right now, more than ever, we have to change the narrative and expectations in this industry.

Let me ask you something….

Do you think it’s fair that any highly trained, full time working professional should have to be on a stringent budget or have a side hustle just to pay their bills? Well that is the expectation and reality for so many of us and it’s not ok.

Not to mention that, like many other service based industries, we are responsible to pay for health insurance and plan for retirement. And to stay relevant we must continually be investing in our education and tools.

When added all together these expenses can range anywhere from 12k-23k annually before factoring in the cost of living. That number is what it takes for us to come up to speed with the benefits of other mainstream professionals!

Respect for the Profession: Often the work that we do as hairdressers is undervalued by consumers. When we are respected as skilled, educated and essential (remember COVID) professionals it will serve to reframe the narrative and perception around this career path and result in higher wages.

Client Education: Clients often don’t realize the level of skill, time, and products involved in their services. Educating clients on the value of quality hair services may help justify higher prices, which in turn would increase earnings.

Fair Compensation: There’s a broader discussion needed about fair compensation for service industry professionals. Hairdressers provide an essential and skilled service, and the value of that service should be reflected in their pay.

Salon Practices: Some salons take large commissions or charge high chair rental fees, which can significantly cut into a hairdresser’s earnings. Advocating for better business practices within the industry could help ensure that more of the money earned by hairdressers goes into their own pockets.

Industry Standards: Raising industry standards and promoting ongoing education as a norm can help elevate the profession. When hairdressers are seen as highly skilled professionals, there’s more justification for higher rates.

So what can we do now to affect change in these areas?This is what the broad scope of beauty industry professionals are up against. Let’s shed some light on the causes of the effects we are are seeing:

Be careful what authority you listen to: We have to stop listening to industry professionals that are downplaying our earning potential. Not only is this uninspiring and demotivating but it cheapens the industry as a whole. If 6 figures is an expectation by other professionals then why can’t it be a gold standard for us a s well?

Choose a community that has shared interests: Piggybacking off of what professional authority you listen to, it is equally important to surround yourself with like minded peers. Whether that be the salon environment you choose or an online community. The support of your peers is essential to remaining actively engaged as a professional on this career path.

Become your own advocate:  Without unions or strong professional organizations to advocate on our behalf, the responsibility falls on us as individual professionals to protect our rights and interests. This situation requires a proactive approach to ensure that we are fairly compensated, respected, and able to remain in this profession for the long term. So speak out against unfair compensation, misclassification and any type of workplace abuse. 

Always be in continuing education: In this industry trends change overnight. It is essential to stay ahead of the curve and position yourself as an expert in the field. The ONLY way to do this is by constantly learning and adapting to new techniques, products, and styles, so that you ensure that your services remain in demand and that you can offer your clients the latest and best options.

Focus on number one: Don’t get caught up in what everyone else is doing or not doing. Your priority should be building your brand, expanding your specializations, and delivering exceptional client experiences. Focus on acquiring new clients and retaining the ones you have. Keep doing the boring, consistent work that builds your success—because no one else is going to do it for you. Stay committed to your path, and let your results speak for themselves.

Dress for the job you want: If you’re aiming to be a six-figure earner, start acting like one! Present yourself professionally, stay punctual, maintain a spotless station, and offer your clients a luxury experience. Always be on top of your game. Master your skills, strive to be the best, and consistently raise the standard. Give 100% every day. This is the mindset and character needed to achieve six-figure success.

Find a mentor: It can be hard to stay the course on your own which is why I always advise procuring the advice of a mentor or advisor, especially during challenging times. I know for me, all of my career growth happened when I was in an active relationship with someone that had more experience than me and was willing to show me the way. Don’t be shy, ask someone that you admire to mentor you. And if you don’t know of anyone in your community, jump online and ask for one in an online community. You’d be surprised how many seasoned stylists are willing and happy to lend advice and encouragement. 

In conclusion, building a six-figure beauty business is the only reliable way to invest in the tools you need to thrive in this industry, secure your retirement, and afford healthcare. Ignore the naysayers—a six-figure income isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. How can you expect to live a comfortable, financially secure life without aiming to achieve six figures in your business?

Confused about how to do that? Well you’re in luck because that is what we specialize in at Elite Salon Leadership. Through our online academy, 1:1 coaching and other offerings, we aim to help every stylist that wants a 6 figure income to get it. If you would like more information on how we can help you move toward 6 figures in your beauty business send us an inquiry at hello@elitesalonleadership.com. We can’t wait to talk to you!

Francine Thompson