Thursday, October 29, 2009
10 of the Toughest Questions on the Cosmetology State Board Exam
At least 7 correct would equal a passing score:
1. This relaxer is advertised as "no-lye", recommended for "sensitive scalps", regularly sold "over the counter", and will straighten the hair completely:
a) Sodium hydroxide
b) Lithium
c) Guanidine
d) Potassium hydroxide
2. The biggest / largest / best selling hair in the world is:
a) Remy hair
b) Non-Remy hair
c) A mixture of Remy and Non-Remy
d) None of the above
3. Oxidation occurs during which of the following periods:
a) Processing
b) Oxidative
c) Neutralization
d) Reduction
4. Vellus and lanugo hair are similar in many ways, one principal difference is:
a) Lanugo hair has no pigment
b) Vellus hair has no pigment
c) Vellus hair is longer
d) Vellus hair is coarser
5. In hair cutting, the area below the crest, or parietal, is referred to as the:
a) Exterior
b) Cranium
c) Nape
d) Interior
6. Using "double-notched" shears will have which of the following effects:
a) Remove more hair than single-notched
b) Remove less hair than single-notched
c) Remove virtually no hair
d) Create a "spiked" look
7. When cutting diagonal lines, the most common cutting position is:
a) Palm Down
b) Palm Up
c) Palm-To-Palm
d) On Top Of The Fingers
8. A capless wig is:
a) Machine made
b) Composed of wefts sewn together
c) Generally less expensive than a cap wig
d) All the above
9. In the "shear over comb" technique, the angle of the comb will determine:
a) The length of the hair
b) The amount of transparency
c) The extent of scalp visibility
d) A, B, and C
10. Which governmental agency regulates cosmetics in the United States, and issues regulations concerning Predisposition Tests, Patch Tests, and P.D. Tests?
a) EPA
b) FDA
c) USP
d) OSHA
Answers:
1 (c), 2 (b), 3 (c), 4 (b), 5 (a), 6 (b), 7 (b), 8 (d), 9 (d), 10 (b)
For explanations to these questions, and textbook page numbers (Milady & Pivot Point), email us at: info@cosmetologystateboardexam.com
To order your complete set of 1,700 questions (covering all tested areas in each of the 50 states and the National or Multi-State Exam), visit us online at: www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
A Few Really Bad Decisions Made By The Cosmetology Industry #2
This is a continuation of a prior blog. To read the previous blog, scroll down to the following article.
At the end of the previous blog, I said that I would next discuss one of the mistakes salon owner's have made in attempting to increase the salons income when faced with fewer clients.
The typical owner's response has been "Chair Rental". A disastrous decision which has removed them from being hair-stylists and business owners, and turned them into landlords.
They sacrifice all control over the business in exchange for a weekly, or bi-weekly, rent check. Once again, because I have spent my life in this industry, I have observed the ways in which salon life has changed as chair rental has become increasingly the industry norm.
From the owner's perspective, they have no employees. They have tenants. And because they have no employees, most owners feel no need to create a warm / friendly / family like environment. And so, the salon takes on a very chilly, business like, ambience. Not the type of thing that attracts most artistic people to begin with. These owners tend to provide little, if any, ongoing education. Likewise, they usually do not feel the need to provide advertising or marketing for the salon. Once again, they do not have emloyees, they have tenants. And most landlords in a shopping center do not provide advertising for their tenants.
From a renters perspective; it is a very isolating experience. Most of your co-renters will come in, do their clients, and leave. Since you really do not "work" together, you do not have co-workers in the more traditional sense. And there is a kind of coldness that was not present just a few years ago. As mentioned previously, the warm / friendly / family environment that was so common in salons some years back, seems replaced by a cold / business like atmosphere. The clients do not necessarily see or feel this, but you certainly will. The irony is that most young people who are attracted to the industry are attracted because they dislike the cold business nature of corporate America. And yet, that is exactly what the modern renters salon is becoming.
I use the term co-renters, because that is what they are. They are not your co-workers, and they are not your colleagues. They are your direct competition. It is as though one of you is McDonalds while the other is Burger King. And your buildings have been set up right next to each other on the street.
It is unlikely that your co-renters will offer much in the way of backroom assistance or guidance either. They are there to do their clients and leave. If you are unsure what to do, or run out of product, this is not their problem.
Which brings up costs. You will be supplying all your own products. The salon doesn't supply you with haircolor, perms, etc. You don't work for the salon. And while $5 or $6 dollars for a tube of haircolor may not seem like a lot, try buying 50 or 100 tubes of haircolor, plus the peroxide, and the brushes and the ..... You get the point. It is expensive, and all the responsibility is on you.
There is very little of what you might call "salon life", no education, and no support.
It is probably the perfect enviroment if you are a loner by nature, not very friendly, have no desire to interact with anyone else, and have plenty of money to set yourself up. Otherwise, you might want to consider other options.
Finally, we come to the subject of money. As I said at the outset, I believe the rental salon evolved out of the salon owner's need to increase their monthly income after the once-a-week ladies were chased out of the salon. But in most instances, it has worked out just the opposite. And nobody is making any money, except perhaps the building owner and that is usually not the salon owner. It seems more and more that everyone is just working for the rent.
As a closing thought, I have noticed a new trend. It is not very wide spread as of yet, but it is growing. And that is the rise of such salons as Aveda and Paul Mitchell. Some big industry names are getting into an aspect of the industry where they previously had no presence. That of salon ownership. And in these salons, they have only employees, no renters.
When big names such as Aveda and Paul Mitchell (to name a few), are moving the industry away from chair rental; and when they are having no difficulty in recruiting top stylists to go with them - it tells you something about the the benefits of being an employee as opposed to renting a chair.
Again, you may not agree with all, or anything, I have said. It is only my opinion. But it is an opinion formed over many years experience with the industry. So if you are new to the industry and seeking a position, consider all the avenues before you jump at renting a chair.
It is often said that if something sounds to good to be true, it probably is. And remember, sometimes what looks like gold, upon closer inspection, turns out to be pyrite.
At the end of the previous blog, I said that I would next discuss one of the mistakes salon owner's have made in attempting to increase the salons income when faced with fewer clients.
The typical owner's response has been "Chair Rental". A disastrous decision which has removed them from being hair-stylists and business owners, and turned them into landlords.
They sacrifice all control over the business in exchange for a weekly, or bi-weekly, rent check. Once again, because I have spent my life in this industry, I have observed the ways in which salon life has changed as chair rental has become increasingly the industry norm.
From the owner's perspective, they have no employees. They have tenants. And because they have no employees, most owners feel no need to create a warm / friendly / family like environment. And so, the salon takes on a very chilly, business like, ambience. Not the type of thing that attracts most artistic people to begin with. These owners tend to provide little, if any, ongoing education. Likewise, they usually do not feel the need to provide advertising or marketing for the salon. Once again, they do not have emloyees, they have tenants. And most landlords in a shopping center do not provide advertising for their tenants.
From a renters perspective; it is a very isolating experience. Most of your co-renters will come in, do their clients, and leave. Since you really do not "work" together, you do not have co-workers in the more traditional sense. And there is a kind of coldness that was not present just a few years ago. As mentioned previously, the warm / friendly / family environment that was so common in salons some years back, seems replaced by a cold / business like atmosphere. The clients do not necessarily see or feel this, but you certainly will. The irony is that most young people who are attracted to the industry are attracted because they dislike the cold business nature of corporate America. And yet, that is exactly what the modern renters salon is becoming.
I use the term co-renters, because that is what they are. They are not your co-workers, and they are not your colleagues. They are your direct competition. It is as though one of you is McDonalds while the other is Burger King. And your buildings have been set up right next to each other on the street.
It is unlikely that your co-renters will offer much in the way of backroom assistance or guidance either. They are there to do their clients and leave. If you are unsure what to do, or run out of product, this is not their problem.
Which brings up costs. You will be supplying all your own products. The salon doesn't supply you with haircolor, perms, etc. You don't work for the salon. And while $5 or $6 dollars for a tube of haircolor may not seem like a lot, try buying 50 or 100 tubes of haircolor, plus the peroxide, and the brushes and the ..... You get the point. It is expensive, and all the responsibility is on you.
There is very little of what you might call "salon life", no education, and no support.
It is probably the perfect enviroment if you are a loner by nature, not very friendly, have no desire to interact with anyone else, and have plenty of money to set yourself up. Otherwise, you might want to consider other options.
Finally, we come to the subject of money. As I said at the outset, I believe the rental salon evolved out of the salon owner's need to increase their monthly income after the once-a-week ladies were chased out of the salon. But in most instances, it has worked out just the opposite. And nobody is making any money, except perhaps the building owner and that is usually not the salon owner. It seems more and more that everyone is just working for the rent.
As a closing thought, I have noticed a new trend. It is not very wide spread as of yet, but it is growing. And that is the rise of such salons as Aveda and Paul Mitchell. Some big industry names are getting into an aspect of the industry where they previously had no presence. That of salon ownership. And in these salons, they have only employees, no renters.
When big names such as Aveda and Paul Mitchell (to name a few), are moving the industry away from chair rental; and when they are having no difficulty in recruiting top stylists to go with them - it tells you something about the the benefits of being an employee as opposed to renting a chair.
Again, you may not agree with all, or anything, I have said. It is only my opinion. But it is an opinion formed over many years experience with the industry. So if you are new to the industry and seeking a position, consider all the avenues before you jump at renting a chair.
It is often said that if something sounds to good to be true, it probably is. And remember, sometimes what looks like gold, upon closer inspection, turns out to be pyrite.
A Few Really Bad Decisions Made By The Cosmetology Industry
I think that of all the bad decisions made consciously, or unconsciously, by the cosmetology industry - Vidal Sassoon convincing women to stop setting their hair on a weekly basis at the salon has to rank among the worst. And I say this, not because I am in love with rollers, but because I believe this trend (among others), has cost both the salon owner, and the individual stylist, a tremendous amount of money over the years - and continues to do so on a daily basis.
You may not agree with my ideas on this, but read on and I am certain you will find yourself in agreement with several points.
I was raised in this industry. And during the 1960's my parents owned a salon. They only had to fill the books of their salon for one week. Thereafter, the weeks just repeated themselves. Its Tuesday at 11 am, it must be Mrs. Johnson. Women came in every week and they rebooked the following weeks appointment before they left. They fought over appointment slots as though they were gold. Today, we are trying to "convince" them to prebook. One week it was a shampoo & set. The next week it was a color & set. Then, the following week, a haircut & set. Once every three months, it was a permanent wave & set. And during all of this, there were usually weekly manicures along with the occasional pedicure. Our family lived very well as the result of my parents efforts. And over the years, I knew numerous salon owners - all of whom I could say - lived very well.
Now that we have pooh poohed the weekly roller set and talked our clients out of permanents, we have to rely on monthly haircuts, and perhaps colors. Or maybe even, every six week haircuts. This means you have to fill your appointment book for an average of five weeks before it starts to repeat.
Obviously, this means you need five times as many clients as before. And a simple look at the U.S. population census will show you that there are NOT five times as many people living in the country today as there were in the 1960's. In short, stylists have fewer clients today than they did in the 1960's, and this translates to: stylists make less money today than they did during the 1960's or 1970's. And of course, this leaves out the manicurists who largely rely on your clients to become their clients. Generally, clients decide to get their nails done while getting their hair done, and not the other way around. So, if your clients are not in the salon anymore, neither are the manicurist's clients. Soon thereafter, the manicurist is no longer working in the salon. And the next thing you know; clients don't want to come there because they are looking for a full-service salon. It is a snow ball effect, where the problem just continues to get bigger.
This situation is bad for the stylist and bad for the manicurist, but it is really bad for the owner. As an owner, you have fixed expenses such as: rent, electricity, phones, advertising, insurance, supplies, maintenance, etc. And because these bills do not go down, or away, you are left with less and less money at the end of the month.
It seems there are three salons at every intersection, and the only ones making money are the landlords.
There, I have said it. You may not agree with the appraisal, but I was there then and I am here now. And take it from me, there was more money "Then".
In my next blog I will discuss the mistake I believe salon owners have made in attempting to make up the lost revenue, cover their bills, and make a profit.
Because lets face it, while we love the industry - a paycheck is always nice.
You may not agree with my ideas on this, but read on and I am certain you will find yourself in agreement with several points.
I was raised in this industry. And during the 1960's my parents owned a salon. They only had to fill the books of their salon for one week. Thereafter, the weeks just repeated themselves. Its Tuesday at 11 am, it must be Mrs. Johnson. Women came in every week and they rebooked the following weeks appointment before they left. They fought over appointment slots as though they were gold. Today, we are trying to "convince" them to prebook. One week it was a shampoo & set. The next week it was a color & set. Then, the following week, a haircut & set. Once every three months, it was a permanent wave & set. And during all of this, there were usually weekly manicures along with the occasional pedicure. Our family lived very well as the result of my parents efforts. And over the years, I knew numerous salon owners - all of whom I could say - lived very well.
Now that we have pooh poohed the weekly roller set and talked our clients out of permanents, we have to rely on monthly haircuts, and perhaps colors. Or maybe even, every six week haircuts. This means you have to fill your appointment book for an average of five weeks before it starts to repeat.
Obviously, this means you need five times as many clients as before. And a simple look at the U.S. population census will show you that there are NOT five times as many people living in the country today as there were in the 1960's. In short, stylists have fewer clients today than they did in the 1960's, and this translates to: stylists make less money today than they did during the 1960's or 1970's. And of course, this leaves out the manicurists who largely rely on your clients to become their clients. Generally, clients decide to get their nails done while getting their hair done, and not the other way around. So, if your clients are not in the salon anymore, neither are the manicurist's clients. Soon thereafter, the manicurist is no longer working in the salon. And the next thing you know; clients don't want to come there because they are looking for a full-service salon. It is a snow ball effect, where the problem just continues to get bigger.
This situation is bad for the stylist and bad for the manicurist, but it is really bad for the owner. As an owner, you have fixed expenses such as: rent, electricity, phones, advertising, insurance, supplies, maintenance, etc. And because these bills do not go down, or away, you are left with less and less money at the end of the month.
It seems there are three salons at every intersection, and the only ones making money are the landlords.
There, I have said it. You may not agree with the appraisal, but I was there then and I am here now. And take it from me, there was more money "Then".
In my next blog I will discuss the mistake I believe salon owners have made in attempting to make up the lost revenue, cover their bills, and make a profit.
Because lets face it, while we love the industry - a paycheck is always nice.
Monday, October 19, 2009
3 Things You Must Do To Pass Your Cosmetolgy State Board Exam
If you are like most students, your instructors probably did a fine job of teaching you the basics of "how to do hair".
Sadly, if you are like many students, those same instructors probably failed to teach you "how to pass the State Board Examination".
And unless you do something about it, their failure will become yours.
The 3 Things You Must Do:
1 - Learn what to study.
And what not to study. Don't waste your time studying the wrong information.
2 - Learn what to memorize.
You cannot memorize it all. Many have tried, all have failed.
3 - Learn the tested concepts.
Once understood, a concept can be applied to an endless number of questions.
Here is a quick example of why you need to learn the concept, not memorize the question. First we pose the question followed by the correct answer, then we give 9 variations of that question. At least one of these variations will be on your exam.
Question:
What is the opposite of yellow?
Answer:
Violet
Variations:
1- What color can be used to neutralize yellow?
2- What is the Compliment of yellow?
3- What color lies directly opposite violet on the color wheel?
4 - What is the compliment of violet?
5- If a client's hair shows a yellow cast, what color toner can be used to correct this cast creating a platinum shade?
6- If a client's hair has a light orange shade and you apply a violet toner what shade will result (hint: it is not the platinum shade she wants)?
7- What color is found directly opposite yellow on the color wheel?
8- What color is the opposite of violet?
9- A client's hair has lightened to pale orange, what toner color should be applied to neutralize the orange?
Here are 10 questions on 1 simple idea: Yellow is the Opposite / Compliment of Violet. And this is how the State Board questions are written. There is nothing new. But if you are memorizing questions without really understanding concepts, you will be retaking the exam. Possibly more than once.
To receive assistance in preparing for your exam, visit:
http://www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com/
Sadly, if you are like many students, those same instructors probably failed to teach you "how to pass the State Board Examination".
And unless you do something about it, their failure will become yours.
The 3 Things You Must Do:
1 - Learn what to study.
And what not to study. Don't waste your time studying the wrong information.
2 - Learn what to memorize.
You cannot memorize it all. Many have tried, all have failed.
3 - Learn the tested concepts.
Once understood, a concept can be applied to an endless number of questions.
Here is a quick example of why you need to learn the concept, not memorize the question. First we pose the question followed by the correct answer, then we give 9 variations of that question. At least one of these variations will be on your exam.
Question:
What is the opposite of yellow?
Answer:
Violet
Variations:
1- What color can be used to neutralize yellow?
2- What is the Compliment of yellow?
3- What color lies directly opposite violet on the color wheel?
4 - What is the compliment of violet?
5- If a client's hair shows a yellow cast, what color toner can be used to correct this cast creating a platinum shade?
6- If a client's hair has a light orange shade and you apply a violet toner what shade will result (hint: it is not the platinum shade she wants)?
7- What color is found directly opposite yellow on the color wheel?
8- What color is the opposite of violet?
9- A client's hair has lightened to pale orange, what toner color should be applied to neutralize the orange?
Here are 10 questions on 1 simple idea: Yellow is the Opposite / Compliment of Violet. And this is how the State Board questions are written. There is nothing new. But if you are memorizing questions without really understanding concepts, you will be retaking the exam. Possibly more than once.
To receive assistance in preparing for your exam, visit:
http://www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com/
Saturday, October 17, 2009
5 Common Mistakes on The State Board Exam
Applicants make many mistakes when preparing for, and taking, the Cosmetology State Board Examination. That is why so many have to take the exam more than once. Remember, the State Board only requires your school to maintain a 70% pass rate.
That means the school is allowed a 30% failure rate.
Put another way, 1 out of every 3 people can - and will - fail their State Board Examination. This is allowed and considered normal.
Below we have listed the 5 most common mistakes students make when preparing for the exam.
1 - Memorizing questions,
with the mistaken impression that these same questions, these exact same questions, will be on your State Board Examination - they won't. Because the State Board has those same questions (has had them - and not used them), for years. You need new questions, questions the State Board doesn't have yet. They will have them soon enough, but not this month.
2 - Focusing to much time and energy on the wrong chapter or chapters.
Many chapters go untested year after year. Know one knows why. But it is how the system works. Learn to work it.
3 - Not focusing enough time and energy on the right chapter or chapters.
4 - Focusing on the wrong information in the right chapter or chapters.
Example: do you know which 4 sentence paragraph in the Chemical Relaxer Chapter (Milady) contains 3 common State Board Exam questions? If you do not, try to find this information.
5 - Wasting time thinking you have time, you don't.
The test is closer than you think. Everyone is happy, calm, and relaxed in school - right up until 1 month before the big test.
Then Panic sets in!
Warning:
If you and two friends are taking the exam on the same day, drive in separate cars. When one of you fails, and one of you probably will, you don't want to be trapped in that vehicle.
Need help in preparing for your exam, visit:
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
That means the school is allowed a 30% failure rate.
Put another way, 1 out of every 3 people can - and will - fail their State Board Examination. This is allowed and considered normal.
Below we have listed the 5 most common mistakes students make when preparing for the exam.
1 - Memorizing questions,
with the mistaken impression that these same questions, these exact same questions, will be on your State Board Examination - they won't. Because the State Board has those same questions (has had them - and not used them), for years. You need new questions, questions the State Board doesn't have yet. They will have them soon enough, but not this month.
2 - Focusing to much time and energy on the wrong chapter or chapters.
Many chapters go untested year after year. Know one knows why. But it is how the system works. Learn to work it.
3 - Not focusing enough time and energy on the right chapter or chapters.
4 - Focusing on the wrong information in the right chapter or chapters.
Example: do you know which 4 sentence paragraph in the Chemical Relaxer Chapter (Milady) contains 3 common State Board Exam questions? If you do not, try to find this information.
5 - Wasting time thinking you have time, you don't.
The test is closer than you think. Everyone is happy, calm, and relaxed in school - right up until 1 month before the big test.
Then Panic sets in!
Warning:
If you and two friends are taking the exam on the same day, drive in separate cars. When one of you fails, and one of you probably will, you don't want to be trapped in that vehicle.
Need help in preparing for your exam, visit:
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Budget Salon, Chair Rental, or Beverly Hills?
This posting is a little bit long, but if you read it to the end, it will have been worth the time.
If you are a freshly licensed cosmetologist, the world around you is filled with opportunities. Unfortunately, most of you won't be able to recognize them.
This article is only my opinion and it may not be relevant to your situation. But after 30 years in the industry, as a stylist, salon owner, educator, and school owner, I have enough experience that I think my opinion is on target for most people. It is an opinion based on experience, my own and that of others.
So hear goes:
As stated, there are so many opportunities (read: career paths) open for the new stylist, but lets concentrate on the big 6. Apprenticeship, Budget Salon, Mid-range Salon, Chair Rental, Beverly Hills (or whatever passes for Beverly Hills in your chosen city), and Hotels.
1 - Apprenticeship / Assistant;
Positives:
If you find the right employer, this is the greatest opportunity around. And there is no faster way to learn about the industry from both sides - hair and business - this includes; ordering/marketing/advertising/promotions/employees/hiring/ firing, and the list goes on. You will be working with an experienced and busy stylist, that is why they need an assistant. You have a guaranteed paycheck every week, plus tips; and each day you are presented with the opportunity to learn new things about your chosen career . Take it from me, "if I only knew then what I know now". This can be an easy way to begin building a clientele because most times, the stylist you are assisting will be happy to move some clients over to you. They have worked with these people for awhile, and know which ones will move and which will not.
Negatives:
After completing one or two years as an assistant, many stylists feel they need to move on to a different salon because they perceive the staff and clientele will always view them as an "assistant". This will depend a great deal on both the salon you work in, as well as your own feelings. However, even if it is true, what have you lost? You got paid, you learned, and you began developing a clientele.
2 - Budget Salon;
Positives:
This can be a great training ground especially if you are lacking in self confidence. At the prices they charge, most clients don't really expect a lot of technical skill from the staff. Thus, it is a great place for you to practice your technical skills without having the high expectations that clients tend to have in a high end salon. You also develop speed in this type of operation because of the volume of daily traffic. Finally, it is a paycheck from day one. You need not develop a clientele, the clients are there waiting for you. This is an excellent set up for a parent that needs to be home with their children and doesn't have a lot of time to sit in a salon waiting for clients. It is also a good idea if you are new to town and need to make money immediately.
Negatives:
On the negative side, you will not develop a clientele that you can take with you when you leave, and you will leave. These people may request you while you work there, but remember - they came for the discount price, and when you leave, they will stay there for the discount price - they will almost never follow you. A last thought on the budget salon, you probably will leave after a year or so because it is exhausting to work that hard for that little. Remember, no matter how high the commission (and it isn't that high - usually about 45%), it is a commission based on a very small price tag. It is wonderful in the beginning, especially if you are flat broke after a year or more of beauty school, but for most stylists, it is not a long term career path.
3 - Mid-range Salon;
Positives:
These are often mall based, national chains (Regis comes immediately to mind). Similar to budget salons, these salons have a "built-in" and ready waiting clientele, so you probably will not have to sit and wait a long time before performing a service. They charge a somewhat higher price than the budget salon and generally offer benefits such as insurance, paid vacations, and the opportunity to move into management.
Negatives:
Because they are generally mall based, you will work when the mall is usually busy. And when is that? Nights, weekends, and holidays. By virtue of being chains or franchises, they have a great many rules & regulations, including fixed schedules, time-clocks, and uniforms. All things that artistically inclined people, such as us, usually don't like.
4 - Chair Rental;
Positives:
You are your own boss. Appeals to the independent minded. You set your own hours, prices, and services. Enough said.
Negatives:
There is very little comeraderie at work. People come in, they do their clients, and they leave. If you are looking for a salon atmosphere, laughing, talking, and learning with co-workers, this isn't it. Learning new techniques and keeping up with new styles & ideas is difficult because the salon almost never has any kind on ongoing training. It can also be expensive. You have your fixed bills, such as rent and phone; along with supplies and advertising expenses. This brings us to the final question - where are you going to get your clients from? If you already have them and you enjoy working independently, this may be the road for you. If not, consider the other options.
I do not personally know even one stylist, who went this road directly out of school, and succeeded. This is an avenue better pursued by an experienced stylist with a clientele.
5 - Beverly Hills;
Positives:
It is Beverly Hills with all the panache and cache that carries. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. The salon will be first rate, as will the products and services offered. The prices will be high so you will be well paid for your work. And if you ever hope to become a stylist to the stars, this is where it is going to happen (not at SuperCuts).
Negatives:
It is Beverly Hills with all the stereotypes and expenses that carries. While the salon and its products/services will be first rate, they will expect you to be first rate as well. This means your technical skills and knowledge as well as your own hair, make-up , and wardrobe. Watch your language, most clients that can afford this salon are older, wealthy, and educated. There will be few, and probably no, walk-ins. It is about 95% referral. And since referrals tend to come from existing clients who send the referral to their own stylist, where is your business going to come from? If you want to develop this high end, glamouous clientele, you will need to have stashed enough cash to live on for about two years, or find someone who is willing to support you for the same period of time.
6 - Hotels;
Positives
Built-in, captive audience, clientele. The guests are in the hotel, they probably don't know of any salon in town and come into the hotel salon/spa for their services. People on vacation are usually willing to indulge themselves and spend more than they would at home, so prices tend to be high. In a year round tourist center (think: Hawaii and Las Vegas), this can be a tremendously profitable position. Clients all day, every day, all year long. High prices and usually company benefits including insurance and paid vacations. Finally, it is generally a happy and upbeat environment. People are on vacation in a beautiful spot - what is not to be happy about?
Negatives:
If the hotel is in a seasonal location (think: Aspen or Palm Springs), you will need to save your money for the off season. Your business will be primarily Blow-Drys, Up-Dos, Roller-Sets, and Men's Haircuts. Most women will have gotten their hair cut, colored and highlited by their stylist at home before going on vacation.
As I said at the beginning, these are only my opinions and they may not be right for you. Along with the above, consider the following thoughts when looking for a position:
1 - What is the age group with which you feel comfortable and enjoy working?
2 - Do you prefer a primarily male or female clientele (or you do not care)?
3 - What type/s of services do you enjoy doing the most (cut, color, highlites, etc.)?
4 - Where do you want to live (or at least spend the next few years)?
It is a lot to keep in mind, but if you do think of all these things when looking for a position, you will find the position that is right FOR YOU.
For assistance on passing your State Board Exam:
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
For some truly great insights into the world of a high end stylist, visit:
www.thescissorboy.com
If you are a freshly licensed cosmetologist, the world around you is filled with opportunities. Unfortunately, most of you won't be able to recognize them.
This article is only my opinion and it may not be relevant to your situation. But after 30 years in the industry, as a stylist, salon owner, educator, and school owner, I have enough experience that I think my opinion is on target for most people. It is an opinion based on experience, my own and that of others.
So hear goes:
As stated, there are so many opportunities (read: career paths) open for the new stylist, but lets concentrate on the big 6. Apprenticeship, Budget Salon, Mid-range Salon, Chair Rental, Beverly Hills (or whatever passes for Beverly Hills in your chosen city), and Hotels.
1 - Apprenticeship / Assistant;
Positives:
If you find the right employer, this is the greatest opportunity around. And there is no faster way to learn about the industry from both sides - hair and business - this includes; ordering/marketing/advertising/promotions/employees/hiring/ firing, and the list goes on. You will be working with an experienced and busy stylist, that is why they need an assistant. You have a guaranteed paycheck every week, plus tips; and each day you are presented with the opportunity to learn new things about your chosen career . Take it from me, "if I only knew then what I know now". This can be an easy way to begin building a clientele because most times, the stylist you are assisting will be happy to move some clients over to you. They have worked with these people for awhile, and know which ones will move and which will not.
Negatives:
After completing one or two years as an assistant, many stylists feel they need to move on to a different salon because they perceive the staff and clientele will always view them as an "assistant". This will depend a great deal on both the salon you work in, as well as your own feelings. However, even if it is true, what have you lost? You got paid, you learned, and you began developing a clientele.
2 - Budget Salon;
Positives:
This can be a great training ground especially if you are lacking in self confidence. At the prices they charge, most clients don't really expect a lot of technical skill from the staff. Thus, it is a great place for you to practice your technical skills without having the high expectations that clients tend to have in a high end salon. You also develop speed in this type of operation because of the volume of daily traffic. Finally, it is a paycheck from day one. You need not develop a clientele, the clients are there waiting for you. This is an excellent set up for a parent that needs to be home with their children and doesn't have a lot of time to sit in a salon waiting for clients. It is also a good idea if you are new to town and need to make money immediately.
Negatives:
On the negative side, you will not develop a clientele that you can take with you when you leave, and you will leave. These people may request you while you work there, but remember - they came for the discount price, and when you leave, they will stay there for the discount price - they will almost never follow you. A last thought on the budget salon, you probably will leave after a year or so because it is exhausting to work that hard for that little. Remember, no matter how high the commission (and it isn't that high - usually about 45%), it is a commission based on a very small price tag. It is wonderful in the beginning, especially if you are flat broke after a year or more of beauty school, but for most stylists, it is not a long term career path.
3 - Mid-range Salon;
Positives:
These are often mall based, national chains (Regis comes immediately to mind). Similar to budget salons, these salons have a "built-in" and ready waiting clientele, so you probably will not have to sit and wait a long time before performing a service. They charge a somewhat higher price than the budget salon and generally offer benefits such as insurance, paid vacations, and the opportunity to move into management.
Negatives:
Because they are generally mall based, you will work when the mall is usually busy. And when is that? Nights, weekends, and holidays. By virtue of being chains or franchises, they have a great many rules & regulations, including fixed schedules, time-clocks, and uniforms. All things that artistically inclined people, such as us, usually don't like.
4 - Chair Rental;
Positives:
You are your own boss. Appeals to the independent minded. You set your own hours, prices, and services. Enough said.
Negatives:
There is very little comeraderie at work. People come in, they do their clients, and they leave. If you are looking for a salon atmosphere, laughing, talking, and learning with co-workers, this isn't it. Learning new techniques and keeping up with new styles & ideas is difficult because the salon almost never has any kind on ongoing training. It can also be expensive. You have your fixed bills, such as rent and phone; along with supplies and advertising expenses. This brings us to the final question - where are you going to get your clients from? If you already have them and you enjoy working independently, this may be the road for you. If not, consider the other options.
I do not personally know even one stylist, who went this road directly out of school, and succeeded. This is an avenue better pursued by an experienced stylist with a clientele.
5 - Beverly Hills;
Positives:
It is Beverly Hills with all the panache and cache that carries. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. The salon will be first rate, as will the products and services offered. The prices will be high so you will be well paid for your work. And if you ever hope to become a stylist to the stars, this is where it is going to happen (not at SuperCuts).
Negatives:
It is Beverly Hills with all the stereotypes and expenses that carries. While the salon and its products/services will be first rate, they will expect you to be first rate as well. This means your technical skills and knowledge as well as your own hair, make-up , and wardrobe. Watch your language, most clients that can afford this salon are older, wealthy, and educated. There will be few, and probably no, walk-ins. It is about 95% referral. And since referrals tend to come from existing clients who send the referral to their own stylist, where is your business going to come from? If you want to develop this high end, glamouous clientele, you will need to have stashed enough cash to live on for about two years, or find someone who is willing to support you for the same period of time.
6 - Hotels;
Positives
Built-in, captive audience, clientele. The guests are in the hotel, they probably don't know of any salon in town and come into the hotel salon/spa for their services. People on vacation are usually willing to indulge themselves and spend more than they would at home, so prices tend to be high. In a year round tourist center (think: Hawaii and Las Vegas), this can be a tremendously profitable position. Clients all day, every day, all year long. High prices and usually company benefits including insurance and paid vacations. Finally, it is generally a happy and upbeat environment. People are on vacation in a beautiful spot - what is not to be happy about?
Negatives:
If the hotel is in a seasonal location (think: Aspen or Palm Springs), you will need to save your money for the off season. Your business will be primarily Blow-Drys, Up-Dos, Roller-Sets, and Men's Haircuts. Most women will have gotten their hair cut, colored and highlited by their stylist at home before going on vacation.
As I said at the beginning, these are only my opinions and they may not be right for you. Along with the above, consider the following thoughts when looking for a position:
1 - What is the age group with which you feel comfortable and enjoy working?
2 - Do you prefer a primarily male or female clientele (or you do not care)?
3 - What type/s of services do you enjoy doing the most (cut, color, highlites, etc.)?
4 - Where do you want to live (or at least spend the next few years)?
It is a lot to keep in mind, but if you do think of all these things when looking for a position, you will find the position that is right FOR YOU.
For assistance on passing your State Board Exam:
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
For some truly great insights into the world of a high end stylist, visit:
www.thescissorboy.com
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Hair Loss; and Some Straight Forward Answers on Preventing It.
According to recent United States government findings, almost 40% of the adult population suffers from some degree of hair loss. And it is not only men. Studies show that while more men experience hair loss than women, women appear to suffer a higher degree of emotional trauma and mental anguish from hair loss than do men.
The study also went on to state that the first person most people speak to about their hair loss, and often the only person they speak to about it, is their stylist.
With that in mind, the following is a short synopsis on the current science of hair regrowth.
While there is still no absolute "Cure" for Androgenic Alopecia (male pattern baldness, and it ocuurs in women as well), in recent years medical science has made great strides forward.
The primary treatments, all seeking to halt further hair loss and increase the new growth of "Terminal" hair, are:
1 - Rogaine (Minoxidal),
2 - Propecia (Finesteride),
3 - Single Unit Follicular Transplant, and
4 - Laser Combs
Rogaine:
Available without a prescription.
It is applied topically twice per day.
It is available in two strengths (2% and 5%).
Can be used by men or women.
Costs between $30 and $50 per month.
Propecia:
Available by prescription only.
It is taken orally once per day.
Available in only one dosing strength.
Suitable for use by men only (serious health considerations if used, or touched, by women).
Costs approximately $75 per month.
*Under controlled clinical studies, had an 80% to 90% effective rate,
compared to an effective range with Rogaine between 40% and 50%.
Single Unit Follicular Transplant:
This is the latest advancement in transplant surgery.
It boasts a 100% success rate.
It is suitable for both men and women.
Costs between $5,000 and $20,000 (depending on extent of transplant & area of the country).
Laser Comb:
Recently cleared for hair restoration by the Food and Drug Administration, the Laser Comb works by increasing blood flow to the scalp.
The success rate is yet to be determined in blind clinical studies.
It is suitable for both men and women.
Costs range between $100 and $500 (depending upon quality, warranty, etc.)
There are terms in this article, which are used on the State Board Exam, and with which you need to be familar:
Androgenic Alopecia, Topical Application, and Terminal Hairs.
For information on passing your State Board Exam:
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
www.nictesting.org
The study also went on to state that the first person most people speak to about their hair loss, and often the only person they speak to about it, is their stylist.
With that in mind, the following is a short synopsis on the current science of hair regrowth.
While there is still no absolute "Cure" for Androgenic Alopecia (male pattern baldness, and it ocuurs in women as well), in recent years medical science has made great strides forward.
The primary treatments, all seeking to halt further hair loss and increase the new growth of "Terminal" hair, are:
1 - Rogaine (Minoxidal),
2 - Propecia (Finesteride),
3 - Single Unit Follicular Transplant, and
4 - Laser Combs
Rogaine:
Available without a prescription.
It is applied topically twice per day.
It is available in two strengths (2% and 5%).
Can be used by men or women.
Costs between $30 and $50 per month.
Propecia:
Available by prescription only.
It is taken orally once per day.
Available in only one dosing strength.
Suitable for use by men only (serious health considerations if used, or touched, by women).
Costs approximately $75 per month.
*Under controlled clinical studies, had an 80% to 90% effective rate,
compared to an effective range with Rogaine between 40% and 50%.
Single Unit Follicular Transplant:
This is the latest advancement in transplant surgery.
It boasts a 100% success rate.
It is suitable for both men and women.
Costs between $5,000 and $20,000 (depending on extent of transplant & area of the country).
Laser Comb:
Recently cleared for hair restoration by the Food and Drug Administration, the Laser Comb works by increasing blood flow to the scalp.
The success rate is yet to be determined in blind clinical studies.
It is suitable for both men and women.
Costs range between $100 and $500 (depending upon quality, warranty, etc.)
There are terms in this article, which are used on the State Board Exam, and with which you need to be familar:
Androgenic Alopecia, Topical Application, and Terminal Hairs.
For information on passing your State Board Exam:
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
www.nictesting.org
New Stylists Adjust To Working Saturdays
Unfortunately for many cosmetology school students, their school follows a Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm schedule. The lucky ones attend a school that operates Tuesday through Saturday. Yes, that's right - the Lucky Ones. Because once you graduate, and get your license, that is the way it is going to be - so, it is better if you get accustomed to it early on.
Over the years I have interviewed many NEW stylists, manicurists, massage therapists, and potential instructors and I am still amazed at how many of them tell me: "I only work Monday through Friday, no nights, no weekends, and for sure no holidays". It is usaully at about this point that I mention they went to the wrong school, if they wanted a 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday job, they should have attended secretarial school.
Salons and spas are open on Saturdays. In this industry, Saturdays are usually the busiest day. In many salons, Saturday alone can bring in as much money as Tuesday, Wednesay, and Thursday combined.
If being off Saturday is really important to you, you will be able to arrange it - eventually. After a year, or two, of hard work, you will have a clientele and be able to work the hours you desire. But fresh out of cosmetology school, Saturdays are "the" day for building your clientele. This is the day the salon will typically have the most walk-ins, it is also the day when other stylists are most likely to get over booked and be willing to give you a customer.
Sunday is another great day for a new stylist to build a clientele. Very few salons are open and even fewer stylists are working. If a client wants a service, they do not have much in the way of options. If you are there, it is a great new client for you. Make them happy, and they are yours.
There is an old adage about working smart, not working hard. Well in this business, for a new stylist, working smart means working Saturday (and maybe Sunday).
Not to end on a down note but:
In 30 years, I have never seen a successful new stylist who refused to work at least one weekend day early in their career.
To learn the "SECRETS" of the Cosmetology State Board Exam:
www.stateboardexam.com
Over the years I have interviewed many NEW stylists, manicurists, massage therapists, and potential instructors and I am still amazed at how many of them tell me: "I only work Monday through Friday, no nights, no weekends, and for sure no holidays". It is usaully at about this point that I mention they went to the wrong school, if they wanted a 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday job, they should have attended secretarial school.
Salons and spas are open on Saturdays. In this industry, Saturdays are usually the busiest day. In many salons, Saturday alone can bring in as much money as Tuesday, Wednesay, and Thursday combined.
If being off Saturday is really important to you, you will be able to arrange it - eventually. After a year, or two, of hard work, you will have a clientele and be able to work the hours you desire. But fresh out of cosmetology school, Saturdays are "the" day for building your clientele. This is the day the salon will typically have the most walk-ins, it is also the day when other stylists are most likely to get over booked and be willing to give you a customer.
Sunday is another great day for a new stylist to build a clientele. Very few salons are open and even fewer stylists are working. If a client wants a service, they do not have much in the way of options. If you are there, it is a great new client for you. Make them happy, and they are yours.
There is an old adage about working smart, not working hard. Well in this business, for a new stylist, working smart means working Saturday (and maybe Sunday).
Not to end on a down note but:
In 30 years, I have never seen a successful new stylist who refused to work at least one weekend day early in their career.
To learn the "SECRETS" of the Cosmetology State Board Exam:
www.stateboardexam.com
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
3 Requirements to Succeed:
Success may be defined in many ways.
However; most people will agree that success, at least professional success, involves:
-money,
-recognition, and
-happiness/contentment/fulfillment/ sense of accomplishment (in some order).
To be successful as a cosmetologist, here is the path you "must" follow.
1 - School;
Apply yourself for the hours you are there.
Styles change, so what seems important today, may not be a money maker in 2 or 5 years.
Learn everything you can (roller sets, blow-drys, haircuts, coloring, braiding, ethnic hair, business management, customer service, etc., - everything, even if you don't like it).
Someday, when you own your own salon, you will be glad you know it all.
For some excellent information on school life, what to expect, and what to look for:
see the Bellus Academy postings on Twitter.com (cosmetology / beauty), or
www.sandiegobeautyacademy.com
2 - Pass your State Board Exam (the first time);
Get this out of the way so that you can begin your career.
If you fail you can always take it again, but why?
Pass it the first time and move on
For help in passing it "The 1st Time",
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
3 - Salon Life;
It is treacherous,
You have a lot to learn,
You need advice from those who know what they are talking about and really want you to succeed.
For a lot of great information on what to do, and not do:
www.modernsalon.com
www.SalonSpa.com
www.salonfixer.com
To recap:
1 - School / learn everything.
2 - State Board / learn the "Secrets" to pass it the 1st time.
3 - Salon Life / learn or die (translation: fired, quit, or make no $).
However; most people will agree that success, at least professional success, involves:
-money,
-recognition, and
-happiness/contentment/fulfillment/ sense of accomplishment (in some order).
To be successful as a cosmetologist, here is the path you "must" follow.
1 - School;
Apply yourself for the hours you are there.
Styles change, so what seems important today, may not be a money maker in 2 or 5 years.
Learn everything you can (roller sets, blow-drys, haircuts, coloring, braiding, ethnic hair, business management, customer service, etc., - everything, even if you don't like it).
Someday, when you own your own salon, you will be glad you know it all.
For some excellent information on school life, what to expect, and what to look for:
see the Bellus Academy postings on Twitter.com (cosmetology / beauty), or
www.sandiegobeautyacademy.com
2 - Pass your State Board Exam (the first time);
Get this out of the way so that you can begin your career.
If you fail you can always take it again, but why?
Pass it the first time and move on
For help in passing it "The 1st Time",
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
3 - Salon Life;
It is treacherous,
You have a lot to learn,
You need advice from those who know what they are talking about and really want you to succeed.
For a lot of great information on what to do, and not do:
www.modernsalon.com
www.SalonSpa.com
www.salonfixer.com
To recap:
1 - School / learn everything.
2 - State Board / learn the "Secrets" to pass it the 1st time.
3 - Salon Life / learn or die (translation: fired, quit, or make no $).
Monday, October 5, 2009
Giving Good Interview
At the interview, draw upon the things you learned in cosmetology school. Be prepared with stories (some funny, some not) that demonstrate what you have learned and how passionate you are about your chosen career.
Be cheerful and helpful. One spa owner has said she will purposefully drop a pen on the floor during an interview with a possible new employee. If the applicant immediately reacts by picking up the pen, she knows this person has the right instincts to deliver top customer service. It's a subtle test that many job seekers fail.
Dress more professionally than you think you probably need to. And while it is important to let your own sense of style shine through, do not show to much skin.
If the salon / spa has a website, visit the site before you visit the salon / spa. And always carry a list of questions not answered on their website.
The major questions you should ask deal with the opportunities for growth you will have there. The major questions you should not ask (although we are all dying to know), deal with how much money you will make and how much time off you can take.
The interviewer knows you don't have much experience. So don't try to fake it. You know what you know. They remember when they applied for their first job, they remember how little they knew, they realize how little you know, and they understand how much they will have to teach you.
But it's O.K., keep in mind the list of things they are really trying to find out from you:
1 - How enthusiastic, and willing, to learn are you?
2 - Your overall sense of style (remember: show all your style, don't show all your skin)?
3 - Your sense of customer service (this is a service industry)?
4 - How dependable you are?
5 - If "they" can depend on you?
Don't try to dazzle them with how great a stylist you are.
Dazzle them with how great a person you are, and
You will be hired.
Be cheerful and helpful. One spa owner has said she will purposefully drop a pen on the floor during an interview with a possible new employee. If the applicant immediately reacts by picking up the pen, she knows this person has the right instincts to deliver top customer service. It's a subtle test that many job seekers fail.
Dress more professionally than you think you probably need to. And while it is important to let your own sense of style shine through, do not show to much skin.
If the salon / spa has a website, visit the site before you visit the salon / spa. And always carry a list of questions not answered on their website.
The major questions you should ask deal with the opportunities for growth you will have there. The major questions you should not ask (although we are all dying to know), deal with how much money you will make and how much time off you can take.
The interviewer knows you don't have much experience. So don't try to fake it. You know what you know. They remember when they applied for their first job, they remember how little they knew, they realize how little you know, and they understand how much they will have to teach you.
But it's O.K., keep in mind the list of things they are really trying to find out from you:
1 - How enthusiastic, and willing, to learn are you?
2 - Your overall sense of style (remember: show all your style, don't show all your skin)?
3 - Your sense of customer service (this is a service industry)?
4 - How dependable you are?
5 - If "they" can depend on you?
Don't try to dazzle them with how great a stylist you are.
Dazzle them with how great a person you are, and
You will be hired.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
It's All In Your Perspective
I recently read a report in which the writer was obviously overjoyed at what they had discovered and began by saying:
To be accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), which allows their students to receive federal scholarships and grants, beauty schools must maintain a 70% State Board Exam pass rate among their students...
One thing people seem to agree on is that most cosmetology schools prepare their students well for the State Board Exam...
Typically a state will require a student to pass both a Written exam (to assess their "book" knowledge) and a Practical exam (to demonstrate their hair styling abilities)...
Because instructors tend to know there own state requirements backwards and forwards, it is best to choose a school in the state where you want to work...
It is not unusual to feel nervous while preparing for the State Board Exam...
You should feel nervous while preparing for your State Board Exam. You have spent thousands of hours and many more thousands of dollars preparing for this moment, and if you are not nervous, there is probably something wrong!
I do not want to offend the writer of this article, and therefore I will not mention where I saw it, but there are so many things wrong in the space of a few sentences:
1 - Many states practice reciprocity, so it is irrelevant what state you have your training and license in if the other state will honor the license (you can find this information by visiting http://www.nictesting.org or your state board of cosmetology website).
2 - If reciprocity will not work for you, it is best to choose a school in the state where you will take your exam, not not where you want to work. You will have to pass the exam before you go to work.
3 - Look at the "stats" the article refers to: a 70% pass rate requirement.
That sounds impressive until you realize it means 30% fail.
Almost 1 in 3 fail!
If you and 2 friends take your exams together, 2 will pass and 1 will fail - lets hope it isn't you. And yet, the writer seems to think this is a GOOD THING.
4 - Almost 80% of the states now administer the NIC Exam (so the written portion of the test is the same no matter what state you take it in). And the other 20% of the states still using their own test are asking the same questions, so every instructor, in every school, knows the written portion very well. The problem is they are usually spread to thin, with to many students, and simple do not have time to share all their Written exam knowledge with you. Because the days are to short, you are often left on your own to figure out exaxctly what will be on the Written exam. So, your instructor knows what is on the exam, but...
5 - The question is: Do You?
6 - Although the writer didn't mention this, the failure rate is higher on the Written exam than on the Practical exam (see the previous article, "Life After Beauty School").
There isn't much you can do to change the overall pass rate,
but you can make certain that you are in the 70% pass group and not the 30% fail group.
As a final thought;
if you are not going to take steps to make certain you are in the 70% pass group,
drive to the test site yourself -
you don't want to ruin your friends excitement on the drive home as they celebrate their passing the exam.
For help in passing your written exam;
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
To be accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), which allows their students to receive federal scholarships and grants, beauty schools must maintain a 70% State Board Exam pass rate among their students...
One thing people seem to agree on is that most cosmetology schools prepare their students well for the State Board Exam...
Typically a state will require a student to pass both a Written exam (to assess their "book" knowledge) and a Practical exam (to demonstrate their hair styling abilities)...
Because instructors tend to know there own state requirements backwards and forwards, it is best to choose a school in the state where you want to work...
It is not unusual to feel nervous while preparing for the State Board Exam...
You should feel nervous while preparing for your State Board Exam. You have spent thousands of hours and many more thousands of dollars preparing for this moment, and if you are not nervous, there is probably something wrong!
I do not want to offend the writer of this article, and therefore I will not mention where I saw it, but there are so many things wrong in the space of a few sentences:
1 - Many states practice reciprocity, so it is irrelevant what state you have your training and license in if the other state will honor the license (you can find this information by visiting http://www.nictesting.org or your state board of cosmetology website).
2 - If reciprocity will not work for you, it is best to choose a school in the state where you will take your exam, not not where you want to work. You will have to pass the exam before you go to work.
3 - Look at the "stats" the article refers to: a 70% pass rate requirement.
That sounds impressive until you realize it means 30% fail.
Almost 1 in 3 fail!
If you and 2 friends take your exams together, 2 will pass and 1 will fail - lets hope it isn't you. And yet, the writer seems to think this is a GOOD THING.
4 - Almost 80% of the states now administer the NIC Exam (so the written portion of the test is the same no matter what state you take it in). And the other 20% of the states still using their own test are asking the same questions, so every instructor, in every school, knows the written portion very well. The problem is they are usually spread to thin, with to many students, and simple do not have time to share all their Written exam knowledge with you. Because the days are to short, you are often left on your own to figure out exaxctly what will be on the Written exam. So, your instructor knows what is on the exam, but...
5 - The question is: Do You?
6 - Although the writer didn't mention this, the failure rate is higher on the Written exam than on the Practical exam (see the previous article, "Life After Beauty School").
There isn't much you can do to change the overall pass rate,
but you can make certain that you are in the 70% pass group and not the 30% fail group.
As a final thought;
if you are not going to take steps to make certain you are in the 70% pass group,
drive to the test site yourself -
you don't want to ruin your friends excitement on the drive home as they celebrate their passing the exam.
For help in passing your written exam;
www.cosmetologystateboardexam.com
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