How to Write a Cutting-edge Hairdresser CV with Examples and Tips

Kickstarting a career in hairdressing is a popular profession that is evolving in the beauty industry. Staying competitive by creating a modern CV that aligns with the current industry market is crucial as trends evolve.

From salons to film sets, whether an apprentice or an experienced stylist aspiring to reach a senior role, we guide you to create a professional applicant tracking system (ATS-friendly) CV that aligns with industry standards. We help you choose a suitable CV template, ensuring you successfully showcase your skills and experience.

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Hairdresser CV example 

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Olivia showcases five years of experience in delivering exceptional hairstyling services in this hair stylist CV sample. She includes essential industry-specific skills supported by relevant work achievements and qualifications. The professional hair stylist CV format for the UK illustrates dedication and proficiency, which reflects an upward career progression.

Explore related CV examples to help you create a tailored CV:

• Beauty therapist CV

• Make-up artist CV

• Customer service CV

What to include in a hairdresser CV? 

Crafting a captivating hairdressing CV involves including key information and sections. Include in your CV personal details and a profile highlighting your expertise. Include education and relevant experience that emphasise key achievements and industry-specific skills.

1. Personal details: Include your name, location and contact information stating your email address and phone number.

2. Personal profile: Craft a summary highlighting your expertise, passion, and unique skills in hairdressing. It should show your dedication to staying at the forefront of modern hairdressing trends. Include relevant education, training, certifications, and workshops. 

3. Education: List your educational background, including relevant certifications or courses. Additionally, highlight workshops or ongoing training relevant to the field.

4. Work experience: Outline your work history, emphasising previous customer-centric roles, achievements, and hairdresser responsibilities. It should illustrate practical examples of completing procedures and engaging with clients.

5. Skills: Showcase critical technical and interpersonal skills essential for styling techniques, trends, and salon-specific tools especially if you have experience in creative aspects like styling or colour.

6. Additional sections: Consider including references or hobbies and interests. Consider attaching links to online hair stylist portfolio examples showcasing your work and social media profiles.

For those entering the field as a trainee or as school-leaver, start with a master CV. It provides a comprehensive overview of your professional journey. Then easily create a job-specific CV relevant to specific hairdressing roles.

Craft your signature style with a personal profile 

Your personal statement on a hairdressing CV is an opportunity to captivate potential employers. Write a concise summary that reflects your expertise, dedication, and unique attributes. Present a professional summary of your hairdressing skills and techniques, dedication to client satisfaction, and creative attributes. It's your chance to present a brief overview of your career goals, passions and personality to attract potential employers.

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Discover more tips on how to write an apprentice CV.

Learn more tips about how to create a captivating personal profile on a CV. 

Style your hairdresser CV with key skills 

The CV skills section requires a strategic blend of technical expertise and people skills, which are essential in the hair and beauty industry. Balance is essential, and you must combine both soft and hard skills.

Hard skills include specific techniques like precise cutting and colouring, while soft skills enhance client interactions and salon experience. Consider hard skills as the practical tools of the trade. Meanwhile, soft skills improve overall customer service and salon experience.

For a CV for hairdressing apprenticeship or trainee, consider using a skills-based CV. Leverage your relevant transferable skills and qualifications. This can help if you have little to no practical experience or are a student.

Cut to the chase with work experience on your CV

Your work experience on a CV should showcase your competence within the ever-evolving landscape of the hairdressing and beauty industry. By applying your extensive skill set, demonstrate how you have delivered quality hair transformations. Write your hairdresser CV format in reverse chronological order to present your most recent experience first. List 2-3 bullet points for measurable achievements or outcomes at the end of each entry.

If you are a starting your career as a hairdresser, consider an internship, finding part-time work or volunteering. This can help you gain more practical skills and knowledge for the perfect CV template.

Examples of work experience

Junior Hairdresser| Glamour Hair Studio, London | 2018 - Present

Transform clients' visions into reality through creative cutting, colouring, and styling techniques. Consult with clients to understand their preferences and offer expert advice. Collaborate with colleagues to ensure seamless salon operations. Stay updated on industry trends and techniques, attending workshops to refine skills.

• Improved client satisfaction by 30% through personal consultations.

• Spearheaded "Trendsetter Tuesdays," introducing new styles to clients.

• Trained junior stylists, enhancing the team's expertise in modern hair trends.

Salon Manager & Senior Stylist | Style Haven Salon, Manchester | 2014 - Present

Lead a team of stylists in delivering top-tier services, from haircuts to intricate updos. Oversee daily operations, including appointments, inventory, and customer interactions. Mentor junior stylists, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

• Streamlined salon operations, resulting in a 20% increase in client bookings.

• Introduced new haircare products, boosting retail sales by 25%.

• Organised successful bridal hair events, enhancing salon reputation.

Assistant Hair Stylist | Tresses & Trends Salon, Birmingham | Summer 2022

Assisted senior stylists with client consultations, shampooing, and blow-drying. Maintained cleanliness and organisation within the salon. Participated in team training sessions to enhance hairdressing techniques.

• Demonstrated quick learning, adapting to salon procedures within a week.

• Received commendation for dedication and enthusiasm from senior stylists.

Barber | Gents Grooming Studio, Leeds | 2017 - Present

Provide exceptional grooming services, including haircuts, beard trims, and hot towel shaves. Engage clients in personalised consultations to deliver tailored styles. Maintain a welcoming and professional environment.

• Achieved a loyal client base through consistently delivering precise cuts.

• Introduced "Beard Care Saturdays," increasing customer engagement by 40%.

• Collaborated with local barbershops, enhancing the barbering community.

Hairdresser CV with little to no experience 

Fashion and Beauty Student | Stockport College, Manchester | 2022 - Present

Apply theoretical knowledge gained in beauty and fashion design courses to practical settings. Assist in organising fashion events and photoshoots, showcasing creativity and attention to detail. Involved in self-directed learning in hairdressing techniques through workshops and online courses. Eager to contribute a passion for beauty trends and creative skills to a professional setting.

• Working toward achieving a Distinction in the Advanced Hair and Beauty Techniques course at Stockport College in 2024.

Refer to our article to learn more about what to write on your CV with little to no work experience.

Make your CV shine with an education section 

The hair and beauty industry is a whirlwind of dynamism, racing with fashion trends and ignited by boundless creativity. To equip yourself with the latest skills and keep the industry's pulse, obtaining relevant qualifications and training is a must. Staying in tune with the industry's cutting-edge is crucial. When listing your education on a CV for hair and beauty, begin with your most recent educational experiences, listing the name of the institution, location, and the specific program or course studied.

The UK has many educational opportunities to kickstart a career in hairstyling. Aspiring professionals can start training in this industry at 16 years old. Typically, employers only request secondary-tier qualifications for entry-level roles.

Apprenticeships: Complete a Hairdressing professional (level 2) apprenticeship to gain on-the-job training and practical experience with an employer. Training typically lasts 12-24 months, and funding options are available.

College Courses: Enrolling in courses or completing a diploma can equip you with essential skills and knowledge.

• National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) is a standard route. It can lead to a Higher National Certificate or Diploma (HNC/HND) qualification or degree on completion.

• T Qualifications in hairdressing, barbering or beauty therapy lasts 24 months. You learn core sections relevant to the sector with options to specialise in a field.

Examples of education: 

• Hairdressing Professional Level 2 Apprenticeship | London Hair Academy, London, 2022

• NVQ/SVQ Level 3 Hairdressing (Full time), 2017 

• Advanced Hair Styling Techniques Course | Beauty & Beyond Institute, Manchester, 2021

• Diploma in Beauty Therapy | City College, Birmingham, 2020.

Learn more about hairdressing training and education opportunities with the Hair and Barber’s UK Council.

Add some colour to your CV with references 

Enhance the credibility of your hair and beauty CV with references. Like highlights adding dimension to a hairstyle, references can bring depth to your application. References can affirm your expertise, reliability, and character, providing a solid foundation for your candidacy. 

If you are writing a trainee or junior hairdresser CV sample, references can enhance its appeal. They gives potential employers a clearer picture of your strengths and contributions.

For more guidance, refer to our article on whether adding references to a CV for hair and beauty is beneficial. 

Add the finishing touch to your hairdresser CV 

In the evolving hair and beauty industry, being current on the latest digital trends is essential to impress potential employers. We recommend adding a personal portfolio, website address, or social media accounts to promote yourself.

Explore platforms like Instagram or TikTok to showcase professional work and engage with clients online. Highlight courses and certificates and workshops, demonstrating a commitment to innovation. Include before-and-after photos and client testimonials to underscore your transformative skills and professionalism.

For more tips on securing an interview for your dream role, read our guide on job interview tips. 

Key takeaways

The UK hair industry offers diverse opportunities and career path for all levels, leading to senior roles or salon owners.  Tailor it to align with your career goals and job description. Emphasise relevant skills, work experience, and achievements. Even without experience, showcase employability through apprenticeships, courses, or a skills-based CV. Include qualifications, certifications, and a portfolio. Ensure a well-structured, ATS-friendly design for the best impression. For additional tips, explore our blog on improving your CV for more tips on how to land your dream role.

Next Steps?

Explore our diverse professional CV templates for hair and beauty roles, easily tailored to entry-level applicants to senior-level stylists. With our CV Builder, you can effortlessly personalise your CV through our user-friendly platform tailored to your career goals. Discover more practical tips and advice on our career blog if you are considering a career change.

FAQ 

What are the career pathways for hairdressers? 

Hairdressers can pursue diverse paths, from junior roles and apprentices to stylists or senior managerial roles. Opportunities include session styling, specialisation in areas like trichology, and freelancing. Some may explore marketing, influencing or product sales. The industry's dynamism allows for growth and entrepreneurship, catering to individual career preferences and varying experience levels.

What is a typical UK CV format for a hairdresser? 

The most typical and recommended UK format is chronological. This format emphasises work history, presenting professional experience and education in reverse chronological order. Potential employers can quickly assess your career progression and suitability for the role.

How to become a self-employed hairdresser? 

You should gain the necessary certifications and have previous experience. Then, register as self-employed with HMRC and set up a professional workspace or rent a chair at a salon.

Consider building a portfolio showcasing your skills. Network with potential clients and market your services. For more information, read this article on hairdresser registration and licensing in the UK.

How much can I earn as a hairdresser? 

Hairdressers' earnings can vary based on experience, location, and skill set. Annual salaries are from £14,000 to £30,000 for senior stylists and specialists. Factors like tips, commission, and client base can influence your income.

What is a good personal statement for a hairdresser CV?

This section on your CV introduces your expertise and aspirations. Highlight your passion for hairdressing and beauty, and mention critical skills like cutting, styling, and client consultation. Emphasise your dedication to staying updated with industry trends and techniques. Showcase your commitment to exceptional customer service.