Let’s Talk About Your First Time…
Sweaty palms, shortness of breath, butterflies fluttering in your stomach and an overall, “OMG” feeling all throughout your body… no, I’m not talking about your first date, I’m talking about your very first appointment with your client. We’ve all been there… if you are a beauty technician or a wellness practitioner, I’m sure you can totally relate to that moment when you realize that you are not practicing on a doll head… you’ve got a real live human being in front of you. Yikes!
Famous hairstylists like the iconic Sam McKnight, who is known for his collaborations on the runway with Chanel and Fendi, was even a beginner himself at one point. Everyone has to start somewhere! This got me thinking about our students here at Bellus Academy… what was their first time like? I took my curiosity to the student clinic and salon floor to get the insider scoop!
“After practicing on models, my first day on the floor was not as nerve wracking. The instructors are always around and watching for support and always there when we have a question. My first appointment was a success because of how well prepared I felt knowing that my instructors fully prepared me and gave me the confidence I needed. Overall, it was an exciting and positive experience. I would tell new students to focus on a warm and comforting welcome and spend as much time as possible with your consultation and listen. Pay close attention to your instructor and take a lot of notes and absorb as much as you can when your instructor is talking to your client. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Confidence is everything in the salon.”
-Liz Philo, Cosmetology Student
“I was so nervous for my first appointment! I had my facial protocol right by my side and I kept going over all of the steps in my head before my client arrived. When she did arrive I totally stuttered through my consultation and forgot the first few steps in the facial. The appointment turned out just fine and she was really happy with the service but I was definitely a ball of nerves! I would advise future students to not over think it too much. You’re going to be a little nervous and you might feel a little awkward but you are going to feel so much better when you’re done. You just need that first appointment to get you comfortable and in the game. It’s smooth sailing after that!”
“I was so nervous and dreading it all day! When I first touched her face my hands started shaking! Once I got into it, it ended up going really well! I would tell other beginners that nerves are natural but don’t let them get the best of you.”
-Morgan Farris and Kelli Hateh, Esthetics Students
“During my first appointment I was concerned that my skills were not up to par. I kept wondering if my client was relaxed and if they were satisfied. My advice to new students would be to always be professional no matter how nervous you get and to try your best. There is always room for improvement. Make mistakes now so you can learn and grow from them. “
-Stephanie Roman, Holistic Healthcare Practitioner Student
The first step down any path can be the most challenging, the most terrifying and also the most exhilarating and the most rewarding thing you will ever do in your life. It’s important to remember that those pesky butterflies in your stomach should give you a boost of confidence as they are cheering you on! If you are thinking about making a change and chasing your dreams don’t just take the first step, make a huge jump!
Ralph Waldo Emerson said it best, “Every artist was first an amateur.”
