A Wisconsin woman is among many who have turned careers in cosmetology and similar jobs into their own successful small businesses. This week, the Green Bay Press Gazette profiled Robin Smet, who started off studying to become a hairdresser, added new skills, and went on to open a small shop specializing in laser treatments, electrolysis, and other treatments. "Our business is very diversified, which has really helped us in a tough economy. I don't want to grow any bigger because now we're just right," Smet told the newspaper. Smet is hardly alone among the many people who use their career skills as a path to self-employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects stead growth in Smet's industry, cosmetology, with an expected 11 percent increase in demand for barbers and cosmetologists and a 34 percent jump in demand for skin care specialists. Demand for manicurists will also be strong, with a projected 28 percent increase. Part of this demand is said to be fueled by an increase in the number of day spas. The BLS notes that about 46 percent of the people in this industry are self-employed.  |