International Women’s Day gives us an opportunity to celebrate the incredible women across the world that are running businesses, pushing boundaries and being role models for the next generation – from mothers juggling a family and work, to best friends who inspire us through their creativity and businesses!
In an industry that is made up from more than 80% women, we ask some of the most inspirational female hairdressers and business owners for their advice and tips for getting to the top…
Inanch Emir, Inanch
- Never stop learning. Treat every day as a learning curve in order to improve your skills. In turn, this will boost your confidence in everything you do. Assist on shoots and shows, even if you are fully qualified you can learn a lot by working with other people. Watch how they work, how they interact with other people and how they inspire those around them.
- Learn about different products and hair textures. This will widen your scope for new services and treatments, opening up a whole new avenue of opportunities.
- Establish a strong online presence through social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn. Showcase your work, engage with your audience, and attract new clients by regularly posting high-quality photos and updates about your services.
Sally Brooks, Brooks & Brooks
- Success means different things for different people. Work out what it means for you, then you can work out how to achieve it.
- Make the most of every day. Say yes when you can, you never know where it will take you. Stay positive and you will be surprised how far a smile can take you!
- Enjoy the journey you are on, there’s no race to the top so immerse yourself in your job and your team. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from your clients and team. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and grow professionally.
Natasha Grossman, HOB Salons
- Embrace the glamorous and unglamorous parts of the job. We all have to do things we don’t want to, but always make sure you do things to the best of your ability. In turn, this will inspire others around you to do the same.
- Stay passionate and enthusiastic about your work. Akin Konizi, Clive Collins and Paul Simbler are as passionate today as they were the day HOB Salons was founded 40 years ago! Your love for hairstyling will shine through in your interactions with clients, ultimately inspiring them to trust you with their hair.
- If you want something, go for it! No one is stopping you apart from yourself. Put together a plan to get there and go for it!
Sophie-Rose Goldsworthy, Goldsworthy’s
- Embrace a mindset of continual learning and growth. Stay updated on the latest trends, techniques and products in the industry. Attend workshops, seminars and engage with online communities to exchange ideas. A dynamic skillset not only enhances your creativity, but also ensures that you provide clients with the latest and best services.
- Build your own strong professional network within the industry. Connect with fellow hairstylists, salon professionals and influencers. Collaborate on projects, attend industry events and engage in online communities, support each other and celebrate each other’s successes. Networking not only opens doors for opportunities, but also exposes you to diverse perspectives, styles and techniques, enriching your skillset.
- Find the ‘thing’ that makes you feel excited and inspired, whether that’s transforming clients in the salon, or working on set in a session environment. Everyone has their own unique perspective and individuality, so make sure that shines through in everything you do and is never diminished. Invest in yourself, discover what makes you special in this incredible industry, and always try to remember the reason you wanted to do this in the first place!
