17 Cosmetology Instructor Interview Questions and Answers

Do you have a passion for hair, makeup, and nails? If you do, you might want to consider a career in cosmetology. Cosmetology instructors are responsible for teaching future cosmetologists the skills they need to succeed in the beauty industry.

Before you can start teaching the next generation of cosmetologists, you’ll need to go through a job interview. To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of questions that you might be asked and sample answers.

Are you familiar with the latest trends in the cosmetology industry?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you are up-to-date with the latest trends in cosmetology. They want to make sure that you can keep your students informed about the industry and help them develop their skills as professionals. In your answer, try to mention a few of the most recent developments in the field and how they relate to what you teach.

Example: “I am very familiar with the latest trends in the cosmetology industry because I stay current by reading professional publications and attending conferences. At my last job, I helped organize our school’s annual conference where we shared information on the newest products and techniques in the industry. This experience has really inspired me to continue learning more about the latest innovations.”

What are some of the most important skills for a cosmetology instructor to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills and qualifications to be successful in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills that relate to being an instructor.

Example: “I believe communication and organization are two of the most important skills for a cosmetology instructor to have. As a student, I always appreciated when my instructors were able to clearly explain concepts and answer questions. Also, having a well-organized lesson plan is essential because it helps students stay on track and understand what they need to learn. These skills helped me succeed as a student, so I try to model my teaching style after these instructors.”

How do you keep your classes interesting and engaging?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you plan lessons. To answer, think of a time when you planned an engaging lesson that students enjoyed. Explain what you did in the class and why it was successful.

Example: “I once taught a makeup application class where I wanted to make sure my students learned all the basics of applying foundation, blush and eye shadow. However, I also wanted them to have fun with their learning experience. So, I brought in different types of makeup brushes for them to try out and practice on each other. They loved getting to use new brushes and were able to apply their makeup better after practicing.”

What is your teaching philosophy?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you plan to approach the role of cosmetology instructor. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a few key principles that guide your teaching methods.

Example: “I believe in creating an inclusive classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their ideas. I also think it’s important for instructors to provide constructive feedback so students know what they need to improve on and how they can achieve success. In my last position as a makeup artist, I noticed many clients wanted advice on which products would work best for them based on their skin type or hair color. I started offering free consultations with clients before their appointments so they could get personalized recommendations.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to deal with a difficult student.

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle conflict. They want to know that you can be firm and fair while also encouraging students to learn. In your answer, try to show that you are able to remain calm in stressful situations and that you have the ability to resolve conflicts quickly.

Example: “In my previous role as a cosmetology instructor, I had one student who was constantly late for class. She would often miss important information because she wasn’t paying attention. After talking with her about it multiple times, I realized that she didn’t understand why being on time was so important. So, I gave her an assignment where she had to practice doing makeup on herself while sitting in front of a mirror. This way, she could watch herself do the makeup and learn at the same time.”

If a student was interested in pursuing a specific career path within the cosmetology industry, how would you help them achieve that goal?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you can help students achieve their career goals. Use your answer to explain what steps you would take to help a student prepare for a specific job in the cosmetology industry, such as becoming a licensed hairstylist or makeup artist.

Example: “I believe that every student has unique talents and skills that they can use to pursue any career path within the cosmetology industry. In my experience as an instructor, I have helped many students discover their passion for hair styling and makeup application. To help them find their passion, I encourage them to try out different types of jobs within the field, like working at a salon or starting their own business.”

What would you do if a student was consistently late to your classes?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle discipline. They want to know that you can keep students on task and ensure they’re prepared for class. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to help the student improve their punctuality.

Example: “If a student was consistently late to my classes, I would first meet with them one-on-one to discuss why they were late. If it was due to transportation issues or other extenuating circumstances, I would work with them to find solutions. For example, if they needed a ride to school, I would offer to drive them myself. If there wasn’t an obvious reason for their tardiness, I would give them a warning and then assign detention if they continued to be late.”

How well do you handle constructive criticism?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn how you respond to feedback. They want to know that you can take their suggestions and use them to improve your teaching methods. In your answer, explain that you welcome constructive criticism because it helps you become a better instructor. You can also mention that you try to provide constructive criticism when you notice an instructor making a mistake in the classroom.

Example: “I love receiving constructive criticism because it allows me to make improvements to my teaching style. I always try to give instructors advice on how they can improve their lesson plans or techniques. For example, I once noticed one of my colleagues was using outdated products during her manicure lessons. I asked if she would like some recommendations for new brands, and she said yes. We spent the next class discussing different nail polish brands and comparing them.”

Do you have any suggestions on how we could improve our cosmetology program?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have any ideas for improving the school’s cosmetology program. They want to know that you’re willing to help improve the quality of their program and that you’re not just looking for a job, but also a career. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific ways you would like to see the program improved or how you’ve helped make improvements in your previous role as an instructor.

Example: “I think one way we could improve our program is by offering more electives. I noticed when I was applying that there are only two elective classes offered per semester, which isn’t very many. I think adding more electives would allow students to explore different aspects of cosmetology and find out what they enjoy most.”

When preparing for a lesson, what is your process for researching relevant information?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your research skills and how you apply them in the classroom. When answering, consider describing a specific time when you researched information for a lesson and what you learned from that process.

Example: “When preparing for a lesson, I usually start by reading through my students’ previous assignments. This helps me understand where they are at in their learning and gives me an idea of what concepts they might need help with. From there, I search online databases for relevant articles or websites that can provide additional information on the topic we’re studying. I find these resources helpful because they allow me to explain complex topics in simple terms while also providing visual examples for my students.”

We want to increase our social media presence. If you were hired for the position, how would you go about doing that?

Social media is a great way to increase your school’s presence and attract new students. An interviewer may ask this question to see how you would use social media to benefit the school. In your answer, explain which platforms you would use and what types of content you would post. Show that you understand the importance of using social media for marketing purposes.

Example: “I think it’s important to have an active social media presence as a beauty school. I would create accounts on all major platforms, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. I would also make sure we had a website so people could find us online. I would regularly post photos of our students’ work and share articles about different techniques and products. I believe these are all effective ways to reach more potential students.”

Describe your experience with teaching specific areas of the cosmetology industry, such as makeup application or hair styling.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching experience and how you apply it to the cosmetology industry. When answering, consider what skills or techniques you use when teaching specific areas of cosmetology.

Example: “I have a lot of experience teaching makeup application because I worked as a freelance makeup artist for several years. In my role, I had to teach clients how to apply their own makeup so they could recreate the look at home. I also taught makeup application in my previous position as an instructor at a community college where I focused on teaching students basic makeup application techniques.”

What makes you stand out from other potential cosmetology instructors?

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their school. When answering, it’s important to highlight a skill or experience that makes you unique from other candidates. You may also want to mention any certifications you have that make you qualified for the job.

Example: “I am passionate about teaching others about cosmetology because I know how much of an impact it can have on someone’s life. Throughout my career as a stylist, I’ve seen many clients who were nervous about getting their hair done but left feeling confident and excited about their new look. This is why I love being a teacher—I get to help students discover their passion and learn new skills.”

Which computer software programs are you most comfortable using?

The interviewer may ask this question to determine which computer programs you are familiar with and how comfortable you are using them. If the school uses a specific software program, it’s important to mention that you’re already familiar with it. You can also list any other programs you have experience using if they aren’t used by the school.

Example: “I am most comfortable using Microsoft Office Suite, but I’ve also worked extensively with Adobe Creative Cloud and CorelDraw. I’m always open to learning new programs, so I would be willing to learn whatever system is in place at your school.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of student feedback?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you prioritize feedback from students and use it to improve your teaching. When answering, consider what the most important aspect of student feedback is for you and why. You can also mention a specific time when you used student feedback to make improvements in your classroom.

Example: “I think that the most important part of student feedback is knowing whether or not they understood the lesson. If I know my students didn’t understand something, then I need to go over it again or find another way to explain it so they do understand. For example, last semester one of my students told me she wasn’t sure about an assignment because she didn’t understand the concept of pH levels. After explaining it again, she said she understood and thanked me for helping her.”

How often do you update your personal portfolio?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how often you update your portfolio and if you have a personal website or social media page. They want to know that you are actively working on improving your skills as a cosmetologist, so it’s important to show them that you’re always learning new techniques and practicing your craft.

Example: “I try to update my portfolio at least once every six months. I find that this is enough time for me to practice the skills I’ve learned in class and learn some new ones from continuing education courses. I also like to take photos of my work throughout the year so I can add those to my portfolio when I update it.”

There is a new trend in the industry that you’re not familiar with. What is your process for learning about it and incorporating it into your lessons?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you adapt to new trends in the industry. They want to know that you’re willing to learn and incorporate new techniques into your lessons. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to research a trend and implement it into your curriculum.

Example: “I am always open to learning about new trends in the beauty industry. I have subscribed to several magazines and newsletters that keep me up-to-date on the latest news. If there was a new trend that I wasn’t familiar with, I would make sure to do some research before teaching my students about it. I would also talk to other instructors who are more experienced than I am at incorporating these types of trends into their classes.”