Hair and beauty interview questions by country (non-native English)
Short answer
The same hair and beauty job is often interviewed differently in each country. Choose the country you are applying in to see what a recruiter there may look for, and practise those questions in simple English.
Choose your country
Each page shows what a hair and beauty recruiter in that country may look for, and questions with a simple answer shape.
- Hair and beauty interview questions in the UK — A salon owner may look for a careful consultation, hygiene between clients and a friendly manner that brings clients back.
- Hair and beauty interview questions in the US — A recruiter may listen for how you build a book of clients and handle rebooking and retail.
- Hair and beauty interview questions in Canada — A salon owner may look at your portfolio and ask for a practical test.
- Hair and beauty interview questions in Australia — A salon owner may look for skill, presentation and a friendly manner with clients, and may ask for a trade test.
- Hair and beauty interview questions in Ireland — A salon owner may look for strong client care and repeat bookings, and may ask for a practical test.
- Hair and beauty interview questions in Germany — A salon may ask about your German level, because consultations and small talk with clients are usually in German.
- Hair and beauty interview questions in the UAE — A salon may look for high-end service, discretion and experience with an international clientele.
Sentence starters you can use in any country
Fill in the gaps with your own work. Simple English is fine.
How do you start with a new client?
I greet the client and ask what they would like. I ask about their hair or skin, and any allergies or reactions before. I explain what I will do, how long it takes and the price. I check they are happy before I start, and again at the end.
A time a client was not happy
The client was not happy because … I listened and did not argue. I offered to … and checked with my manager. In the end the client … and now I always … at the start.
Common mistakes for non-native speakers
- Instead of "I do all treatments": say: "I am trained in…, and I am still learning…". Being clear about your skills may build trust with a salon manager.
- Instead of starting work straight away in a role-play: Start with a short consultation: "What would you like today?". A consultation shows you listen before you work.
- Instead of "The client was difficult": Say what the client wanted, what you offered and how they left. It shows how you solve problems, without blame.
- Instead of "I keep clean": say: "I clean my tools and my station between every client". Hygiene steps are easier to believe than a general claim.
More interview help
Practise hair and beauty interview questions
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