Breaking into the wider hair industry as a self-employed stylist can feel daunting, especially if you haven’t grown up in a salon group or been constantly mentored from day one. When you’re working for yourself, it’s easy to feel like the industry is happening around you, rather than with you. But with intention, visibility and the right support network, a freelance career can provide limitless opportunities…
I know this because I experienced both sides. My journey started in a fortunate position, working with Tim Scott-Wright at The Hair Surgery. Tim was already a respected name in British hairdressing, well connected and deeply rooted in the creative side of the industry. Being part of that environment meant I naturally absorbed the culture, confidence and contacts that form the foundation of an industry career. However, not everyone begins that way and that’s okay. Today, pathways are more accessible than ever; you just need the right approach.
If you want to be part of the professional conversation, you need to understand what that conversation is. That all starts with staying plugged into professional media. Following leading hairdressing magazines and platforms is more than scrolling for inspiration; it keeps you informed about upcoming trends, major brand movements, who’s creating and leading innovations across cutting, colour and styling and the key events and opportunities shaping the hairdressing landscape.
Print magazines in particular play a powerful role. Seeing working hairdressers showcase collections, win awards and share their journeys is grounding and motivating. These aren’t unreachable icons; they’re stylists just like you, but further down the road. Use those pages as a career map to motivate you.
When I first began exploring the wider industry, if I saw someone consistently producing editorial work, competing or representing a brand, I reached out. A simple message asking for advice or an assisting opportunity can open new pathways. Never underestimate the power of putting yourself forward. Great hairdressers are often flattered to support the next generation – they were there once too! Be curious. Ask questions. Introduce yourself. You never know who you’ll meet.
Being self-employed doesn’t mean working in isolation. In fact, your chair is a platform. The brands you choose – especially your colour houses and electrical partners – they should know who you are and what you bring creatively. Reach out to your colour brand representative and don’t be afraid to contact brands you admire or that align with your creative identity. Start a conversation about potential opportunities – whether that’s education roles, ambassador programmes, platform work at industry events, content collaborations, education days or even stage support at industry trade shows. These partnerships not only elevate your profile, but they deepen your connection to the industry and its creative community. Most brands are actively looking for relatable, enthusiastic hairdressers who represent the real salon world. You don’t need a huge following, just passion, professionalism and consistency. Industry growth happens in community.
Attending shows, workshops and live demonstrations puts you in the room where real conversations and opportunities happen. No two careers in hairdressing are the same. Some climb through big salon groups; others carve their own route through freelance work, private studios or session styling. What matters is staying open, ambitious and connected.
Being self-employed isn’t a barrier; it’s freedom. You get to choose your lane, build your identity and decide how deeply to immerse yourself in the creative heartbeat of the industry. Show up, keep learning and never stop looking for your next step. Because in this industry, those who seek opportunities, always find them!
