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the spark I have had the pleasure of speaking to many students pursuing careers in the beauty industry. It's always so fulfilling to meet these young people who are excited to be entering their chosen field in the beauty profession. It's inspiring for me, and prompts me to think about why I love this industry. Each time I present to students, I am reminded of why continuing education is important. Continuing education generally refers to additional classes or training you pursue after obtaining your license, and can vary from look-and-learn classes, one-time classes, online courses, and entire certification programs. Some states and professions require continuing education, often in the form of annual classes or tests to keep you up to date on changes in the field. Often, continuing education requires a set number of hours for licensing to stay current. Like many professions, the beauty industry often requires continuing education as a preparation to offer additional services, and therefore, the ability to take on new responsibilities and opportunities. However, Lifelong Learning 7 Reasons CE is Important to Your Success by Gina Rivera even if there is no set requirement in your state, attending industry shows—where teaching seminars are provided by experts in your selected field—is incredibly important. Remember, the most successful people in the beauty industry have pursued education at some point, which led them to become educators themselves, or at least to become highly respected in their chosen field. So, how can continuing education benefit you, personally? Let's explore! Earn respect. If you work in a commission- based salon, pursuing continuing education is a great way to earn the salon owner's respect. They recognize you have invested time— and sometimes money—into improving yourself, which deserves merit and reward. The quality of your image—socially and professionally—will increase, as will your marketability, if you pursue continuing education. The best part is, improving your career often trickles down to the rest of your life because you're more satisfied with your job, make more money, etc. Earn a promotion. Your new education makes you more qualified for advanced work and additional duties. In some salon environments, this may even be a requirement to be considered for a promotion. Similarly, when compared against another salon professional for a promotion, you will often impress the salon owner more if you have stronger, diverse skills you have obtained yourself. Remember, additional education has the ability to provide you with specific knowledge, as well as illustrating how dedicated you are to improving yourself, which sets you apart from others. N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 87 JESS BAILEY/UNSPLASH