Confidence is a critical factor in a stylist’s success, but for many newly qualified hairdressers, it’s one of the biggest struggles. Fresh survey data from VTCT Skills reveals that confidence concerns can differ depending on the age at which stylists qualify. And whilst the reasons for confidence crises can differ, what is clear is that each new qualifying band comes with their own challenges. While younger professionals battle inexperience and self-doubt behind the chair, older entrants face challenges in establishing themselves, building a client base and keeping up with a rapidly evolving industry.
In a sector that thrives on creativity and connection, confidence is key! Look at these key findings from a VTCT Skills survey of 260 learners who qualified in an NVQ Level 3 or higher in the last three years…
Younger Stylists (18-25) make up the largest group of newly qualified professionals (36.5%), but they also experience the highest rate of confidence struggles, with 50% stating confidence as their biggest post-qualification challenge. Many report feeling hesitant with decision-making, client consultations and executing techniques without supervision. Adapting to the realities of salon life can be overwhelming, particularly in high-pressure environments and many wish they had more hands-on experience before qualifying.
Stylists qualifying in their 30s (29.6%) also report significant confidence challenges (35%), but for different reasons, as many struggle with positioning themselves in the industry, securing clients and managing the business side of hairdressing. Confidence issues often relate to establishing themselves in the industry and many cite struggles with securing clients, pricing their services and marketing themselves.
Older Stylists (40+) face lower confidence struggles overall (only 5%), but often report difficulties with digital marketing and adapting to modern salon business strategies. A digital knowledge gap exists, with many feeling unprepared for social media-driven business strategies. Some experience imposter syndrome when entering an industry where younger stylists dominate trends and platforms.
Across all age groups, a key missing skill is business and client management. Many respondents expressed a need for more structured training in building a client base, pricing services and marketing themselves effectively.
“For anyone qualifying as a hairdresser at any age, I think one of the easiest ways to build confidence quickly is validation from within the industry. Having other hairdressers, especially ones you admire, tell you the choices you are making are good, is a massive confidence boost. Validation plays a big part in your mental health and confidence.
For anyone going straight into self-employment, I would recommend joining a hairdressing community online. There are many great memberships out there you can join to find support, advice, validation and ongoing education.” – Hayley Jepson, The Resilient Hairdresser
“For anyone struggling with their confidence when it comes to content creation, I have a few things I would always suggest they try. If they don’t want to talk to camera or present, take advantage of B-roll footage, where you are in the video doing what you do best but NOT having to look at or talk to the camera. It’s an easier way in, while still building up confidence.” – Vivienne Johns
“We can always talk ourselves into a bad day! We can wake up and say “today just feels like a bad day,” but what if you woke up every day and said “today is going to be a good day”? The key is to trick yourself into confidence, and you can do this by changing your state of mind and seeing where it takes you. Above everything, you need to motivate your own mindset!” – Daniel Granger
On the opposite page, you can read about how VTCT Skills is launching a Membership Platform. This platform will give access to a range of bitesize training, discounts on insurance, individual portfolio pages so employers can recruit, and much more.
By acknowledging the different challenges faced by younger and older newly qualified stylists, the industry can build a more confident, prepared and successful next generation.
