As a beginning hair stylist, it is important for you to take time to become acquainted with the leading organizations in the hair industry. Every profession has its own regulatory authorities, and it is always a smart idea for a professional to learn what these organizations do and who serves on their board of directors. You may also be able to benefit from different seminars and events that are hosted by the following cosmetology organizations.

The American Board of Hair Colorists

The American Board of Hair Colorists is an organization that sets the standard for haircolor. The organization seeks to set a standard of excellence and serve as a credible organization in the eyes of consumers. The organization offers an exam that can be taken by hair stylists who want to become a Board Certified Haircolorist.

National Cosmetology Association

This is probably the largest organization in the cosmetology world as well as the most respected. The National Cosmetology Association represents manufacturers, distributors, salons and spas. To become a member of the NCA, one must pay an annual membership fee. The fees range from $125 to $7500. By joining this organization, a spa or salon owner can enjoy discounts on products and buy from wholesale suppliers.

Professional Beauty Federation

The Professional Beauty Federation is another organization that represents manufacturers and independent salon owners. Cosmetology students and hair stylists can also join the organization in order to get discounts on products. The organization has board members who are from reputable companies such as JCPenney, OPI, Sexy Hair Concepts and the Professional Beauty Association.

American Massage Therapy Association

The American Massage Therapy Association consistently offers cutting edge research on the massage industry and what clients want. A masseuse can also receive career guidance by being paired with one of the mentors who are available through the website. AMTA also offers continuing education classes for established masseuses in the industry. Online courses are also available for those who want to learn new techniques and forms of massage.

Cosmetic and Fragrant Association

This organization represents over 600 major companies in the cosmetic and beauty industry. By providing research on liptsticks, fragrances, sunscreen, soap, toothpaste and other cosmetics, this organization advocates for consumer safety. The organization is also involved in legislative issues that have an impact on cosmetic companies. A company that becomes part of this organization can also advertise in the different publications that are distributed by the Cosmetic and Fragrant Association.

By becoming acquainted with these organizations, a stylist can build upon his or her success by gaining new connections, saving money on beauty products and continuing his or her education.

If you’re a cosmetology professional, chances are you are already familiar with the National Cosmetology Association and the Professional Beauty Association. (If not, you need to be.) Now, these two organizations have joined forces to help you take your networking and connections to a whole new level.

Individually, each of these organizations has represented the interests of cosmetology and salon industry professionals for years. They have served as networking tools and connection-makers for salon owners, hair dressers, nail technicians, estheticians, educators and students.

By providing resources such as membership publications, discounted products and services, in-depth industry research, industry education, trade shows and networking opportunities, the NCA and PBA have been helping their members enhance their careers and their connections.

New possibilities are definitely in store for current and future members! Check out their websites to learn more about the benefits of membership, to get involved, and to keep an eye out for new developments within the organization. According to the PBA, this merger will be an exciting opportunity for everyone involved. (Gordon Miller, former Executive Director of the NCA has joined Behind the Chair as Vice President of “The BTC Experience.”)

If you aren’t already a member of a professional organization, this is a great time to think about joining! Membership fees are manageable for most members and the professional opportunities are nearly limitless. If you are currently or plan to attend cosmetology school, joining these organizations can be a huge step forward in your career.

Any current members of these organizations? What are your thoughts on the benefits or possible disadvantages to membership?