Thu Nguyen works at Model Call Salon & Spa in Hillcrest.  He recently did an interview with Elizabeth Salaam at the San Diego Reader on “How to Build a Business as a Hairstylist.”  He had some great tips and advice; see what he had to say:

What kind of schooling does that [being a hairstylist] require?

…The state of California requires 1600 hours. Then you have to go to the State Board and take practical and written tests for your licensing. The whole process may take from a year to a year and a half.

Tell me the best and worst aspects of your work.

Standing on your feet can take its toll, especially with the heels I wear. And you don’t get benefits such as health insurance and 401ks.

The freedom to come and go as you please is the best part. Being your own boss. Working when you want. That’s the best.

What kind of advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a hairstylist?

Love what you do. Be a go-getter, self-motivated, and strong-willed. Push yourself because no one else is going to push you.

Education. You have to keep yourself up with the latest trends. Take classes. You can never stop learning after beauty school. Absorb everything you can.

If you don’t have a solid clientele, you shouldn’t be self-employed. As a stylist, you have to build that clientele for the first couple of years while you work as a commission-stylist. Then you can work your way up. Every salon will work that out with you.

Read more on the San Diego Reader site.