Employment outlook

Employment in the cosmetology field is predicted to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005. While many new jobs will open up, there will also be an estimated 75,000 (seventy-five thousand) new graduates each year who will be competing with established cosmetologists for available positions. Finding an entry level job shouldn't be difficult, but it may be tougher to land the most coveted jobs or to establish a thriving business. Those who are highly-skilled, personable, reliable, and able to sell products and services will have a better chance of long-term success. In addition, people with training and experience in a variety of areas like skin and nail care may have an advantage in the marketplace. The demand for manicurists in particular is expected to increase rapidly. Skin care professionals will likely be sought-after as well, as more customers request skin rejuvenation treatments. Whatever their field, all cosmetology workers should be prepared to attend continuing education courses in order to keep up with new trends and technologies. To get a feel for your local job market, talk to salon owners and check the want ads to see how many cosmetology positions are listed.