So You Want to Be an Educator? Here's 3 Steps to Start Doing Today…

We're diving into the exhilarating world of becoming a hairdressing educator. As someone whose journey as an educator has spanned continents and opened doors to countless opportunities, I've experienced firsthand the diverse paths available in this dynamic field.

Whether you're drawn to collaborating with salon brands to shape industry trends and techniques, or you're inspired to carve your own path as an independent educator, this episode is your guide to understanding the distinct avenues of brand education versus independent education.

From teaching masterclasses in bustling cities to launching online courses that reach global audiences, the possibilities are as vibrant and varied as the colours we create. Join me as we explore how to turn your passion for hairdressing into a fulfilling career as an educator, starting with three actionable steps you can take today.

Show notes for podcast episode 176

In this podcast episode, I share my top formulas and pro tips for transforming 5 different starting points into a show-stopping Level 7 copper. We’ll cover blonde to copper, Level 2 brownish black to copper, Level 5 dark brown to copper, Level 7 to Level 7 copper, and darker red to copper. No matter what brand you’re working with, I’ve got you covered!

Understanding Brand Education vs. Independent Education

A brand educator collaborates with a salon brand to deliver training, workshops, or demonstrations that are aligned with the brand's products and philosophy. They work to educate salon professionals on the proper use and benefits of the brand’s products, ensuring that the training reflects the brand's standards and values. This often involves traveling to various locations, participating in industry events, and working directly with salon teams to enhance their skills and product knowledge, ultimately helping to promote and increase the brand's presence and reputation in the market.

An independent educator, on the other hand, creates and delivers their own educational content without being tied to any specific brand. They often do this through online courses or in-person workshops, focusing on their own techniques and expertise. This allows them the freedom to teach what they believe is most valuable, market their courses through social media, and build their own brand. For example, they might launch an online series on advanced hair coloring techniques and promote it on their own website and social channels.

THE FIRST STEP YOU NEED TO TAKE is to decide if you want to explore teaching for a Salon Professional Brand or start your own independent education or coaching business. Don’t worry! This does not have to be a lifelong commitment to one or the other, because you might test out both options in your career or find that a hybrid mix of both works for you. But to get started – pick one and start taking action.

Getting Started with Brand Education

Practical tips for approaching salon brands:

• • Research and identify salon brands whose values align with your expertise and teaching style.
  • Contact brand representatives or attend industry events to network and express interest in collaboration.
  • Showcase your expertise through online portfolios or social media content that reflects your alignment with the brand's aesthetic.

Examples:

• • Attending a brand-sponsored education seminar and networking with brand educators to learn about potential opportunities.
  • Pitching a workshop idea to a brand based on your expertise in balayage techniques and how it aligns with their product line.

Launching Your Independent Education Journey

Steps to setting up independently:

• • Identify your niche or specialization within hairdressing education (e.g., bridal hairstyling, men's grooming).
  • Create a curriculum outline and develop engaging content for online courses or workshop series.
  • Utilize platforms like Teachable or Zoom for hosting online classes, or secure venues for in-person workshops.

Examples:

• • Developing a series of video tutorials on advanced haircutting techniques and selling access through a subscription model on your website.
  • Hosting a weekend workshop on colour correction at a rented studio space and promoting it through targeted social media ads and industry networking.

Listen to episode 176 of the Colour Kristina Talks Podcast to to learn the 3 things you must start doing to kickstart your journey as a hairdressing educator.