In the forever-evolving world of Skin Care, trends shift like sand through an hourglass. New products flood the market daily, mentorship stands like a lighthouse as a guiding beacon for professionals, both seasoned and newly licensed alike. And much like a well-formulated serum, mentorship could encourage growth and foster success in this dynamic field.
The Importance of Mentorship
As Aestheticians, we know skin care isn’t just about the products; it’s about how to use them and the formulation behind them. Mentorship can play a very pivotal role in transferring this expertise from seasoned veterans to eager newcomers.
Here’s why mentorship can be very indispensable in the skincare industry:
- Knowledge Transfer:
Skincare is two-fold…science and art. Mentorship allows for the transfer of knowledge learned through years of experience. From understanding skin types & deciphering the Fitzpatrick scale, to knowing and understanding the function of product ingredients, mentors can help identify what are invaluable insights that textbooks and curriculum sometimes fails to offer. - Navigating the “Industry Landscape”:
Have you been to an industry tradeshow lately? Just by attending one, it is clear, that these shows cater to an industry that encompasses careers from dermatology to cosmetic chemistry. (Isn’t it incredible knowing how many nurses and PA’s are now offering “medical aesthetics”!)
Expecting the newly licensed to navigate this “Industry Landscape” can be very intimidating. e. Mentors serve as an industry compass, guiding mentees through what are sometimes, the “rough seas” of the industry and into safer ports of success. - Personal and Professional Growth:
Beyond the technical aspects, this author believes in the concept of mentorship. Mentorship can bolster both personal and professional growth. Mentors not only help with learning new skills, but also a growth mindset. Mentorship provides constructive feedback, nurtures talent, and may even challenge mentees to push beyond their comfort zones. - Networking and Opportunities:
In an industry driven by connections, mentorship often can open doors to invaluable networking opportunities. Only IF these connections are valued by the mentee. These connections may be a network of contacts, access to job openings, collaborations with other industry contacts, and industry events. The list of these opportunities is endless!
The Mentor-Mentee Relationship
At the core of the relationship, mentorship can be a “Big Brother/Big Sister relationship built on trust, respect, and mutual benefit. (Financial or Otherwise) Here’s what can make this relationship work:
- Open Communication:
Effective mentorship hinges on open communication. Mentees’ questions should be welcomed and mentees should feel comfortable asking questions & seeking advice. It’s that simple!
Initially sharing mentee goals and aspirations is also something that a mentors should look at the start of the relationship. Likewise, mentors should make sure to actively listen to their mentees, providing guidance tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. - Setting Clear Goals:
Goal setting is a super-important step in mentorship. Encouraging mentees to be clear on short-term and long-term goals will help mentees to devise an actionable plan to achieve those goals. A system of Regular check-ins allows mentors to track progress, offer support, (where needed) and adjust strategies as needed. - Mutual Respect and Trust:
Respect and trust form the base of the Mentor/Mentee relationship. Mentees should respect their chosen Mentors’ experience. Equally Mentors should trust in their Mentees’ potential. - Continuous Learning:
Mentorship is a journey of continuing education….and for both parties involved! A good Mentor should stay informed of the latest industry trends and treatments as well as the innovations. While Mentees should be eager to learn and explore these innovations to better form their style of performing treatments.
Finding Your Mentor
Finding the right mentor can transform your career and your experience along the road of your skincare journey. Here are some tips I Found important when I developed my outline for the AAC:
- Seek Diversity:
Look for mentors who offer diverse perspectives. Unique vantage points can enrich your career and help you, as an aesthetician, treat ANYONE who walks through your door.
Think of it this way, knowing you are of service to your client even if you refer out to another more experienced professional and refuse service. These vantage points can be the brainchild of MANY professionals whether it’s a seasoned esthetician, a waxologist, barber, chemist, makeup artist, and sister/brother business owner. - Be Proactive:
Don’t wait for mentorship opportunities to walk through your door. Be proactive in seeking out mentors whose work inspires you. Remember….IT DOESN’T HURT TO ASK! Attend industry events, (like the The Skin Games) reach out via professional networking platforms, and most of all, don’t be afraid to send that cold email expressing your admiration and interest in learning from them. - AND MOST OF ALL…Pay It Forward:
As you achieve your goals along your skincare journey, don’t forget to pay it forward by becoming a mentor yourself. Just as you benefited from the guidance and support of mentors, there are and will be countless others who can benefit from your knowledge and experience.
In the fast-paced world of Skincare, mentorship serves as a valuable cornerstone of success helping aestheticians of all experience to bridge a gap between textbook theory and licensed practice. This is why it is beyond important to me to nurture the next generation of aestheticians. So, whether seasoned “veteran” or a budding enthusiast, mentorship can be a very powerful tool. Embrace that tool and watch your skincare journey flourish.