BEAUTY BUSINESS RECESSION PROOF FOR CAREER SEEKERS

These days there aren't very many recession proof jobs, but the beauty business is booming and local beauty schools are finding themselves serving career-seekers and budget-minded clients.

Last year more than 200,000 salon positions went unfilled and that's why in these tough economic times folks of all ages are turning to beauty school. In just 11 months you can become an accredited cosmetologist.

Since the Paul Mitchell school opened in North Little Rock last year, business has been booming on both sides, with students looking for a promising career and clients looking for a deal.

Client Shawnie Heller says, "I come here at least every two weeks and I'm in here a lot and I just jump from student to student to student so I'm in good hands here."

Friday Heller went in for a facial and an $8.00 hair cut and shampoo. She continues, "Plus you get top of the line products and you get your hair done for a very small fraction of the cost."

Casey Stephens says, "Our school has seen a growth in services and also in student enrollment. We really know that our industry is recession proof."

Stephens is the Admissions Leader, she says they currently have about 125 students and after 11 months they'll graduate and can make upwards of $50,000 a year.

Stephens adds, "We are an accredited school so we accept federal aid and the tuition investment will include your tuition, equipment, books and supplies."

She says it's not enough today to merely know how to cut hair or polish nails because all states require a cosmetology license and it's a competitive field. That's why they train students to be business savvy, build clientele and advertise.

"A huge part of our program is focusing on the technical aspects of being a great professional hair stylist, but our program focuses on salon management and job placement so I help them from everything from a resume to cover letters to actually going out and visiting salons and finding where they fit at," Stephens adds.

Tuition for the program is about $15,000 and financial aid is available. At the Paul Mitchell school each student learns everything from hair and skin care to make-up and nails.

Last year the Paul Mitchell School ranked in the top 10 of Franchise Times list of the nation's fastest-growing young franchises.

To learn more call Paul Mitchell Partner School (501)801-1833 or (501)801-1844.

The school is located at 4201 East McCain Blvd in North Little Rock.

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