Bridging Generations in Beauty Education

Bridging the Generational Divide in Beauty Schools: New Research Explores Challenges and Strategies

The beauty, barbering, and wellness industries are experiencing a growing generational divide, with beauty schools at the center of this challenge. Differences in teaching approaches, communication styles, and the use of technology are creating obstacles for administrators, instructors, and students alike.

In 2024, Pivot Point International released the white paper Insights and Strategies to Address Our Industry’s Generational Divide, based on the Beauty Changes Lives Industry Leader Roundtable. Now, Pivot Point is taking a deeper dive into how this divide specifically affects beauty schools with its latest report, Bridging Generations in Beauty Education. Based on conversations with administrators and instructors from private schools, school chains, and public institutions, this white paper highlights real-world perspectives on generational differences—many of which present ongoing challenges in the classroom.

Key Challenges: Communication, Technology, and Expectations

One of the most significant issues is communication between generations. Older instructors, accustomed to traditional teaching methods, often struggle to engage students who prefer hands-on, interactive learning. In contrast, younger instructors may focus on building friendships with students, sometimes at the expense of maintaining classroom authority.

Technology presents another major challenge. Younger students, as digital natives, expect technology to be seamlessly integrated into their education. However, many older instructors are less comfortable with digital tools. “Instructors and students speak different languages,” the report states. “It’s changed in the past 15 years, but even more so in recent post-pandemic years.”

Additionally, shifting student expectations are reshaping the learning experience. Influenced by social media, many students anticipate instant success and struggle with patience and professionalism. Administrators report that today’s students are often less financially accountable for their education, leading to lower attendance and engagement. “Students expect big results without putting in the work,” an instructor observed.

Finding Solutions

Despite these challenges, beauty schools are identifying ways to bridge the generational divide. The research highlights several key strategies, including:

• Pairing younger instructors with experienced mentors to provide guidance and balance professionalism with reliability.
• Integrating social media into lessons to help students develop realistic expectations.
• Encouraging instructors to embrace digital tools and blend traditional and modern teaching techniques.
• Shifting classroom dynamics by having students explain the “why” behind techniques rather than simply memorizing steps.
• Fostering a culture of mutual respect, where educators adapt to student perspectives while maintaining authority.

Pivot Point International has also conducted separate research on wellness in beauty schools, which is closely tied to these generational challenges. Issues such as mental health, financial stress, and work-life balance affect both students and instructors, further influencing their classroom experiences and interactions.

As the beauty industry continues to evolve, embracing generational diversity will be crucial to creating effective learning environments. Bridging Generations in Beauty Education provides a roadmap for beauty schools to navigate these challenges and better prepare students and instructors for success.

For more information or to schedule a presentation, please contact Steve Reiss at [email protected].

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Research – Pivot Point International