Mark Izzard
Mark works at The Manchester College, where he is programme manager for a variety of areas from NVQ Level 1 up to the Media and Make-up Foundation Degree, as well as having clientele in London who travel from all over the UK to see him. He made his first appearance for the Habia Hairdressing Skills Team at Salon International 2007, returning in 2008 where Habia News caught up with him.
How did you get into hairdressing?
I was 24 and had tried other things, although I had always been interested in hairdressing. I've always had a passion for hair and fashion, and love making people feel good about themselves. One of the best things you can do for someone is to boost their confidence. It's the same in teaching. Even if a student doesn't do something perfectly, you encourage them so they go away motivated and with their confidence improved.
What's the secret of your success?
My passion for hairdressing. A good eye for shape and balance. Looking and listening to what the client wants. Understanding
hair and reading people. Asking the right questions. This all comes with experience and time. And I love the industry, so I'm always looking for the next thing.Do you still do training?
All the time. Being a teacher at a college I have to do CPD. I'm always training. When I am with the Skills Team, I am always looking at how they achieved a cut, picking up techniques, and then I adapt them to how I work. If you think you know it all, your career is over.
Why is training important?UK hairdressing is the best in world. Training is essential to that. It's training new people that keeps us at the top. The only way you are any good is when you keep training. That is why I believe in what Habia stand for.
What's the most exciting thing that happened during your career?
There are many things. I recently went to New Zealand for a hairdressing charity event. I had been working for a while and lost my confidence a little. Over there I worked with a hairdresser called Roy Griffiths who took the time to build my confidence and give me inspiration again. Also, the people I have met since I started working with Habia, such as Patrick Cameron at the Young Apprenticeship Awards. Sometimes you meet your heroes and they disappoint, but he is so grounded. He inspires by talking about the industry, not the cuts. If I wasn't already a hairdresser, I would be after listening to him.
What advice would you give to someone just entering the industry?
Education is key. I tell my learners, you can't rely on other people to give you what you need. Drive and passion is what you
need to advance your career. If you have a real passion, you are going to get there. It does take time so don't get frustrated. The more you do it, the better you will get. Get a good training provider and get with a good salon that can offer you hands-on experience. It's the only way you will ever advance. For more information on training with Mark please contact a member of the sales team on 08456 123 555 or email sales@habia.org.
