High School

A high school diploma is important in order to understand the basics of business ownership and management, though there are no specific educational or experiential requirements for this position. Course work in business administration is helpful, as is previous experience in the retail trade.

If you are interested in owning or managing a business, you should take courses in mathematics, business management, and in business-related subjects, such as accounting, typing, statistics, and computer science. In addition, take English and other courses that enhance your communication skills. Specific skill areas also should be developed. For example, if you want to open a cosmetics shop, you should learn as much about the cosmetics industry as possible.

Postsecondary Training

As the business environment gets more and more competitive, many people are opting for an academic degree as a way of getting more training. A bachelor's program emphasizing business communications, marketing, business law, business management, and accounting should be pursued. Some people choose to get a master's in business administration or other related graduate degree. There are also special business schools that offer a one- or two-year program in business management. Some correspondence schools also offer courses on how to plan and run a business.

Other Education or Training

Cosmetics shop owners and managers can take in-person classes and webinars that help them develop their business and managerial skills from the Small Business Association, National Retail Federation, and other associations. Contact these organizations for more information. 

Certification or Licensing

Cosmetics shop owners may need a business license to do business in some states. Individual states or communities may have zoning codes or other regulations specifying what type of business can be located in a particular area. Check with your state's chamber of commerce or department of revenue for more information on obtaining a license or visit the U.S. Small Business Administration's Web site to learn more: https://www.sba.gov/starting-business/business-licenses-permits.

Cosmetics shop owners and managers should have knowledge of the retail business and set high standards for quality customer service. They should have supervisory experience and be aware of employment procedures and labor issues. In addition, they should have some background in inventory control and accounting practices.

Whatever their experience and training, a cosmetics store owner needs a lot of energy, patience, and fortitude to overcome the slow times and other difficulties involved in running a business. Other important personal characteristics include maturity, creativity, and good business judgment. Business owners also should be able to motivate employees and delegate authority.

To be a successful cosmetics store manager, you should have strong communication skills, enjoy working with and supervising people, and be willing to put in very long hours. Diplomacy often is necessary when creating schedules for workers and in disciplinary matters. There is a great deal of responsibility in retail management and such positions often are stressful. A calm disposition and ability to handle stress will serve you well.