Ever wondered how to become a makeup artist for MAC cosmetics? It is not as easy as someone may think. MAC cosmetics typically seeks makeup artists with some training and an eye for color.
MAC is more likely to hire a professional makeup artist, and it is unusual for MAC to hire a person who has had no experience as a makeup artist. Any applicant, however, should have a portfolio of his or her work available. When applying for a position as a MAC cosmetic artist, it is of the utmost importance to arrive to the store with flawless makeup, especially during the interview.
How to Become a Professional Makeup Artist for MAC Cosmetics: Practice Makeup Application
People who would like to know how to become a professional makeup artist for MAC cosmetics should apply for the position by visiting a MAC store or MAC counter in the department store where they would like to work. Ask for the application procedures. Procedures vary between stores and department stores.
In a MAC store, applicants are usually hired by the store's manager. In a department store, applicants may be hired by the department store itself to work at the MAC counter. Some counter jobs will consider strong customer service skills if a person does not have much professional experience applying make-up.
There may be many applicants however, who do have cosmetic experience and/or counter experience. Therefore, consider the competition for the position. People who are experienced makeup artists with good customer service skills are probably more likely to get an interview.
Create or Hone That Resume
Some counter positions that are advertised require a resume. When creating a resume or polishing up an existing one, any previous make-up artist experience, cosmetology courses, and certificates should be highlighted. Customer service experience should also be described in the resume. People who do not have make-up artist experience should at least try to take courses at a college or beauty school to learn basic or advanced makeup application techniques. A make-up artist certificate may also help.
Practice Make-Up Application
In any case, it is likely that applicants will have to demonstrate their skills. Practice applying MAC makeup on friends, family members, and anyone else who is willing to have a makeover. Be experienced in applying makeup on people of various skin tones, light and fair, to rich and deep shades. Applicants should also know how to correct a variety of facial flaws and create different looks that are in tune with MAC's style.
Create a Portfolio
Some, but not all, MAC stores and counters will ask for a portfolio. If that is the case, professional photographs will be needed. Advertise for a photographer at local colleges and universities or hire a professional photographer who is accustomed to shooting fashion photography. Of the two choices, the latter is the best, but may not be the most inexpensive. It is also not unusual to be asked to bring a video tape demonstrating makeup application. Again, store managers may have varying application requirements.
Be Prepared to Demonstrate On-Site
During the interview, it is highly likely that applicants will be asked to demonstrate. It may be necessary to demonstrate on a friend or a person that the MAC representative has arranged to participate in the demonstration. Sometimes applicants are asked to create different looks on the same person within a given period of time.
The Applicant's Look
Make-up should be well-blended. There should be no visible lines, and eyes should be phenomenal. Applicants who can cut the crease may get kudos. Clothes should be stylish and professional. It may be a required to spend at least an hour on a makeover , so dress with that in mind.
More About the Interview
Definitely read and be ready to answer questions regarding the MAC philosophy and think about your own beauty philosophy. Since MAC offers training classes for its employees it may be beneficial to indicate a willingness to constantly learn new makeup styles and techniques.
