Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anna Thompson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Anna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with a hypothetical question – if it were up to you, what would you change about the school or education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career?
There’s been a noticeable shift in how people are viewing career paths, and I think it’s time the educational system adapts to that shift. While there is absolutely a time and place for a four-year college degree—especially in fields like medicine, law, or engineering—it’s equally important to recognize the value of trades, including hairstyling. . In my experience as a salon owner, I’ve seen firsthand how stylists can build incredibly successful, lucrative careers without a college degree. Professions like hairstyling, electricians, and dental hygienist are essential to our economy—and importantly, these careers provide stability that isn’t easily replaced by technology.
We need to show students that fulfilling, lucrative careers don’t always require a four-year degree. Trade schools, apprenticeships, and hands-on learning—especially in fields like beauty and other trades—can offer immediate earning potential and long-term stability. Making these pathways more visible and accessible should be a priority for the next generation.
It’s important to showcase success stories—bringing in guest speakers or alumni who have built successful careers in the trades to talk about their experiences. This could help reshape how we think about these careers and provide students with the tools they need to succeed outside the conventional college route.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Did you know the average length of a career in hairdressing is just 4 years? I built Grand Noir Salon to change that—to elevate the craft of hairdressing and raise the standard for how stylists are seen, respected, and valued. I believe that by holding myself and my team to high standards, we can create a space where hairstylists can have long, fulfilling careers that balance hard work with an enjoyable, sustainable lifestyle.
My journey into this industry has been shaped by personal experiences. When I became a widow at 25 with two young children, I faced challenges I never expected. During that time, some of my most loyal clients became an incredible support system, offering financial help, childcare, and even spending time with my spouse when he was ill. Their kindness showed me the power of community and the importance of asking for help, even when it’s difficult. This experience deeply influenced how I approach my work and the relationships we build at Grand Noir—it’s not just about hair, it’s about people and connection.
At Grand Noir, we offer a range of high-quality services, including personalized haircuts, dimensional color, and specialized treatments. What sets us apart is our commitment to detail and the seamless experience we provide. We’re a tip-free, tech-forward salon with easy online booking, and every service is tailored to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
For my team, I’m focused on creating an environment where they can thrive and build long-term careers. We pour into growth through continuous education, support, and a culture of professionalism. I hold myself to the same high standards I set for them because I believe in leading by example. We work hard, but we also know how to find balance, ensuring that we can sustain this work over the long haul.
What I’m most proud of is the culture we’ve built at Grand Noir. This is more than just a salon—it’s a place where clients feel genuinely cared for, and where stylists are respected for their craft. We’re here to elevate the industry and show that a career in hairdressing can be both rewarding and sustainable. Every detail at Grand Noir is designed with intention, ensuring that both our clients and our team feel valued and appreciated.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
An effective growth strategy we’ve embraced at Grand Noir Salon is asking clients for a review instead of gratuity, since we operate as a tip-free salon. We believe that clients are more willing to take this extra step because they’re not focused on tipping. A positive review can attract new clients, and in the long run, gaining new clients from those reviews offers a greater financial return than a single tip would.
Moreover, focusing on Google reviews is not just about feedback—it’s a powerful way to enhance our online presence. When we play well with gaining reviews, liking and responding to each one, it helps push our SEO, making us more visible to potential clients searching for services. This strategy allows us to grow sustainably while building a community of satisfied, loyal clients.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Building my audience on social media has been all about authenticity, connection, and consistency. When I first started, I wasn’t focused on follower counts or engagement metrics. Instead, I made it a priority to be genuine and to really engage with my clients and followers. I manage two different Instagram accounts—@grandnoirsalon and @thewisconsinhairdresser—each with its own purpose that supports my overall brand.
@grandnoirsalon is the official account for the salon, where we showcase our services, client transformations, and keep followers updated on what’s happening. It’s a space for clients to see our work, learn about new services, and get a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day life of Grand Noir. This account is all about highlighting our team’s talents, our unique offerings, and providing inspiration for anyone looking to update their look.
On the other hand, @thewisconsinhairdresser is more personal—it’s where I share my journey as a stylist, business owner, and individual. Through this account, I focus on building authentic relationships by sharing both personal and professional experiences. I engage with clients on a deeper level, whether it’s commenting on their posts or sharing my own challenges and wins. People relate more when they can see their own stories reflected in mine, and that’s what helps build long-term trust and loyalty.
A big part of how I built my audience was through following clients, engaging with their posts, and building real relationships online. If a client shares a moment from their life—like their daughter’s birthday—I make sure to comment on what I loved, whether it’s the party theme or just how cute their little one is. These small gestures matter, and people notice when you take the time to connect with them on a personal level. It’s a way to stay in touch even when we haven’t seen each other in a while, and it helps build rapport that goes beyond the salon.
Consistency is key. Social media should flow cohesively with what you already do, not feel like an extra or separate job. It’s about integrating it into your daily work in a natural way. My advice for anyone just starting to build their social media presence is: just start. As technology grows, so does your business, and social media has to be viewed as part of that growth. Focus on being authentic, build relationships, and be consistent—everything else will follow from there.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.grandnoirsalon.com
- Instagram: @grandnoirsalon @thewisconsinhairdresser
Image Credits
@clearandquiet @erinlynnefilms