Graduates should remember that they are looking for a career in a prestigious industry and they need to set themselves apart from the thousands of aestheticians lining up to get a job. There are five A's they need to have under their belt to set them apart from the rest: attitude, attendance, availability, appearance, and aspiration. If they can model themselves with these characteristics, successful will ensue.

Attitude
A smile goes a long way. Who wants to hire a Debbie Downer? The aesthetician's job is to educate clients and make them feel good in their own skin. This business is all about customer service. If the graduate's phone is constantly in their hand and they cannot devote 60 minutes of undivided attention to their client, the boss will go to the next graduate who can. No one wants to hire a diva or a princess. Spas are looking for teamwork, cooperation, and likability.

Attendance
Is the graduate always running in at the last second, stressed, or do they give themselves enough time to come in early to prepare their room? Lateness will set them back, make them anxious, and destroy their day. Graduates will need to make sure their steamer works and that they have the appropriate products they need for the treatments that they are scheduled to perform.

Availability
During the job interview, if the graduate's potential employer hands them a schedule that conflicts with their fitness routine, party plans, or sleep schedule, they should re-evaluate if they want that job because if they do, they better become available! It is better for graduates to say "yes" and figure out their life schedule later. They may not get that second chance.

Appearance
Dress for success! Success means a polished look from head to toe. Good grooming and personal hygiene go a long way. A clean uniform, manicured nails, and neat hair are only the beginning. Graduates also need to practice good skin care habits and ensure they do what they are telling their clients to do! Talk the talk and walk the walk.

 
Aspiration
Recent skin care graduates can strive to be the boss and own their own business one day. That is great, but do they know how? They are much better off devoting themselves to a new job, getting promoted, and learning everything they can from their employer. If their goal is to create their own skin care line or open their own spa, they should remember that they must have ample savings behind them. No entrepreneur takes a salary check for a minimum of two years.

Professionals must always be 100 percent confident in their skills. Take continuing education courses or refresher courses, attend tradeshows, and read industry articles and magazines! Like every great industry professional out there, recent graduates need to keep up with new developments, products, services, and ways to provide great experiences. If they do not, there are others out there who will – and will win!