"Empowering Futures, One Connection at a Time."
Explore: Salon Assistant
Brief description of the role
Key responsibilities and day to day tasks of the job
As a Salon Assistant, I start my day by preparing the salon for clients—cleaning treatment stations, sterilizing tools, and restocking supplies. Throughout the day, I greet clients warmly, assist hairstylists and beauticians by handing them tools or products, and help manage appointment schedules to ensure smooth operations. I also help with booking client appointments, answering phone calls, and providing basic information about services and products. After treatments, I assist with cleaning up and maintaining the salon’s neat and welcoming environment. Additionally, I learn about different hair and beauty treatments by observing professionals and occasionally helping with simple tasks under supervision. Overall, my role supports the team and ensures clients have a positive experience from arrival to departure.
Skills most important for success in this role
-You need to be friendly, attentive, and able to make clients feel welcome and comfortable.
-Understanding client needs and communicating clearly with both clients and stylists is essential.
-Precision is important when handling tools, cleaning stations, or mixing hair colour products.
-Physical stamina as the job requires standing for long periods and staying active throughout the day.
-Maintaining a clean and organized environment is essential for client safety and professional standards.
-Many salons use the assistant role as a stepping stone — being open to training and feedback is key.
School subjects / tertiary courses / required certificates
School subjects:
Life Orientation (for customer service and interpersonal skills)
Business Studies (to understand basic business operations)
Hospitality Studies (helpful for service industry knowledge)
English (for communication skills)
Tertiary courses:
Diploma or certificate in Cosmetology, Hairdressing, or Beauty Therapy
Customer Service or Hospitality Management courses
Required certificates:
Cosmetology or Beauty Therapy certification if you plan to progress further in the field
Kind of work environment (e.g Office based, remote, fieldwork etc)
The work environment is primarily salon-based, meaning you’re onsite in a busy, customer-facing setting. It’s fast-paced and hands-on, involving direct interaction with clients and the salon team. There’s also a focus on maintaining a clean, organized, and welcoming physical space.
Potential career progression opportunities in the field
After training, you can move into doing haircuts, colouring, or specialise in areas like braiding, styling, or treatments. >> Many salon assistants explore other parts of the beauty industry through short courses and certificates. >> With experience and knowledge of how the business runs, you can move into managing staff and appointments. >> Many professionals eventually open their own businesses or work independently with their own client base. >> Experienced professionals can train new stylists or assist in college programmes.
Are there any internships, work experience or volunteer opportunities that would help gain exerience in this field
– You can volunteer at community events / makeover projects
– You can do online tutorials to build your brand
– Enter competitions to expose yourself to professionals and trends