Barbering Schools and Programs in Missouri
In order to be a successful barber, customer communication and analysis are essential tools you must posses. You have to look at your client and determine, based on what his needs and desires are, what he looks like and what his appearance goals are, what haircut and facial hair style would look best on him. In addition, it’s essential that, in the workplace, you always display visual poise, carry yourself with confidence, demonstrate appropriate self grooming at all times and posses management and entrepreneurial skills. Whether you work for an established salon or not, most barbers are self employed even when they rent booths from established shops.
Find Barbering Programs in Missouri
You must attend a school that is approved by your state to provide training in the discipline you want to practice. Check with the school and the state board to be sure that your program of study will prepare you for any applicable state licensure.
Overview of Barbering Schools and Curriculum in Missouri
When you attend barbering school in Missouri, you should expect a pretty straight forward process. Your instructor will start out with an orientation and then you will begin to really learn the trade. You will start out working with mannequins and then move up to working with human models in a practice lab or a student salon. You will learn theory along with practical workplace skills. In addition, ethics and professionalism will be a large part of your coursework as well.
Licensing Requirements in Missouri
In order to take the Missouri Barber’s Licensing test, you must complete 1000 Hours of educational training at an accredited school or you can complete 2000 Hours of Apprenticeship training with a licensed barber that’s been pre-approved by the Missouri Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners.
After you have finished your required education or apprenticeship, you will be able to take your test. If you pass your test, the board will issue your license. You must renew your license by September 30th of every odd year. For example, if you received your license on July 15th of 2012, you must renew it by September 30th of 2013 and then again by September 30th of 2015.
If you have a barbering license in another state and want to work in Missouri, you must have your home state send proof of your legal licensure there to the Missouri Board. The Missouri Board will then evaluate the training and experience that you have completed and determine if you need further training to work in Missouri. Whether you need further training or not, you must still sit for NIC Testing before the board will issue you a license to work as a barber in Missouri.
Job and Employment Outlook for Barbers in Missouri
Many Missouri residents love the quality of life the state offers them. In thriving, vibrant places like Kansas City and Springfield, residents enjoy affordable housing, great shopping, and well-developed out of state travel convenience. In suburban towns like Florissant, Fenton and Eureka, residents enjoy beautiful park-like scenery throughout their communities, lovely homes and a small town feel. Most Missouri residents have no intention of leaving their hometown. Because of this, they have the potential to be long term clients for you as a barber professional.
In fact, the USA Bureau of Labor Statistics has nothing but positive things to say about the potential growth of the barbering industry from 2010 to 2020. The Bureau also states that currently, barbers earn over $20,000 every year plus tips.
If you have a passion for this industry and think that you will be a good barber, you should pursue your degree and get your license as soon as you can. In many cases, financial aid will be available to you or scholarships and you will be able to start your career right after you obtain your license.