Trends

An Interview with Sharon Malcolm

March 08, 2024

Sharon Malcolm is an award-winning female hairdresser and businesswoman from Newtownards, Northern Ireland. As well as running her eponymous salon in her hometown, she is also one of the most successful hairdressers in Northern Ireland after winning numerous awards including Northern Ireland Hairdresser of the Year three times, Trend Image of the Year twice and Best Salon of the Year. In honour of International Women’s Day, we caught up with Sharon to find out why she chose hairdressing as a career…

 

What did you want to be when you were younger?
I always knew I wanted to be a hairdresser. I loved school, but I didn’t want to carry on studying so I chose to work part time in a local salon. I attended as much training as I could and enjoyed every single minute of it! Even now, I try to attend as many courses as I can as I believe it’s important to never stop learning.

Where did your career begin?
I started my career working at several local salons, before moving to Belfast to work in the big lights and get some experience of working in a big salon. I then opened my salon in 2000 in the heart of a town called Newtownards in Northern Ireland. I started with a team of five, now we are a team of 11.

What part of your job do you enjoy the most?
I absolutely love all aspects of my job, it’s too hard to pick one! I enjoy working with my team and my clients, some who have been with me since the start. I also love to educate for Schwarzkopf Professional and Denman, as well as getting to use my creativity on photoshoots and making my clients look and feel great.

Do you have a favourite quote or mantra that has helped you in your work life?
‘When the going gets tough, you have to remember that you are doing something that makes you happy.’

Can you give us your top five tips for a successful career?

  1. Be prepared for hard work.
  2. Keep your focus and don’t get distracted.
  3. Be a good listener and team player.
  4. Watch and learn as much as you can.
  5. Stay humble, work hard, have respect and be grateful for what you have achieved.
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