How to nail your next salon or clinic interview

Salon and clinic interviews aren't like most job interviews. Owners have usually been burned before by someone who talked a great game and then couldn't hold a section on a busy Saturday, so they're screening for reliability and fit at least as hard as skill. Turning up on time, in clean, professional kit, with your portfolio ready to go on your phone (or better, a link) does more for you in the first two minutes than anything you say afterwards.

Bring real examples, not just your best ones. A good portfolio shows range — different hair types, skin tones, and difficulty levels — because it signals you can handle whatever walks in the door, not just the flattering shots. If you don't have many client photos yet, before-and-afters from training or trade shows are completely fine to include; just be upfront that they're training work.

Expect a practical trial, especially for hands-on roles. Most NZ and Australian salons will ask newer candidates to do a paid trial shift or a live demonstration before offering a permanent position — this is standard, not a red flag, and it's actually to your advantage: it's the fastest way to prove yourself if the interview itself felt shaky.

Ask about the things that actually affect your day-to-day: commission structure versus hourly, product costs, whether you're expected to build your own client book or work from the salon's existing clientele, and what ongoing training looks like. Owners respect candidates who ask this — it tells them you're planning to stay, not just take the first offer that comes along.