Interview Techniques

“An interview is as much for you as it is for the interviewer”

Get Work Ready first impressions

Once you’ve found the salon you think is right for you, it’s time to impress them with your interviewing skills. Salon owner, Robert Kirby, of Robert Kirby Hairdressing, London, gives his take on making a great impression.

1Be on time. Time keeping is really important. As a working hairdresser you can’t keep clients waiting. When you’re heading to an interview, always give yourself 15 minutes to find where you’re going and time to calm down and compose yourself and settle your nerves. If you rush into an interview, you won’t be prepared.

2Make sure you arrive looking your best. Appearance and image are important when working in a salon. Don’t arrive with unclean hair and make sure your nails and hands are clean. Clients want to go to a salon where the team members take pride in their appearance and a future employer will want to know you can offer this.

3Do your research. You want to know who you will be working with, what they stand for, that your beliefs and values align with their brand. Check their website and check out their social media, find out what their ethos is, what their career opportunities are and what they offer. There’s no point going to work for a company that creates vivid bright colours if you’re interested in classical, natural styles.

4Ask plenty of questions. An interview is as much for you as it is for the interviewer. Ask about what will be expected from you. What will your day-to-day duties be? What education and training will be offered? If you have anything that may hinder the way you work, be open and honest about this. You don’t want any surprises on either side, an honest conversation is always appreciated.

@robertkirbylondon