We recently connected with Emily Hammond and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, thanks for joining us today. Any advice for creating a more inclusive workplace?

Creating an inclusive workplace does so much more than we might realize. It helps build a sense of community, makes clients feel more at ease, and boosts everyone’s confidence. Reflecting on my own journey over the past nine years, I’ve seen firsthand just how impactful inclusivity can be.

When I started my career, I was young and eager but often felt left out. Many colleagues were hesitant to share their knowledge, and some doubted my commitment and abilities. This made me feel isolated, despite my hard work and dedication. It was a tough lesson in how crucial inclusivity is for a positive work environment.

My perspective changed during a college class on diversity and inclusion. The course opened my eyes to the importance of understanding different backgrounds and stories. I learned that being kind and inclusive is key to a supportive workplace. Bad management often stems from a lack of inclusivity, which can create a negative atmosphere and hinder growth.

After leaving a particularly challenging work environment, I was determined to build something different. I wanted to create a space where everyone felt welcome and empowered. When I started my own business, I made inclusivity a core value.

Now, I work in a salon suite within a larger building with other women who run their own businesses. When I first joined, the atmosphere felt cliquish and unwelcoming. Only a few people were friendly. So, I set out to change that. I wanted to make our space one where everyone felt included and comfortable.

Today, we greet each other warmly each morning, help one another with tasks, and collaborate on ideas and education. This supportive environment has not only strengthened our professional bonds but also increased our confidence. Our clients notice the positive energy and enjoy seeing us interact in such a friendly way.

Creating a welcoming space where everyone feels included has made a big difference for us all. It’s a reminder of how powerful inclusivity can be in making both people and businesses thrive.

Emily, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the beauty industry’s evolution over the past 15 years. My journey began nine years ago when I started doing hair, and three years ago, I launched my own salon business. Initially drawn to beauty as a way to boost my self-confidence, I was captivated by the early days of YouTube, where beauty tutorials inspired me to learn various hairstyles and techniques.

My passion for hairstyling began in middle school, where my friends and I experimented with makeup and fashion. This interest carried through to high school, where I styled my friends’ hair for prom and homecoming, and continued into my ballet days, when I did hair for dance practices. Despite facing skepticism about the viability of a career in cosmetology, my parents encouraged me to pursue my passion. I enrolled in cosmetology school, earned my license, and also completed a bachelor’s degree in finance and management.

During college, I started building my salon business, which I continue to grow through ongoing education and advanced training. My salon offers more than just luxury hair services, extensions, and color. It’s a welcoming sanctuary where clients feel safe and valued. I take pride in providing a supportive environment that fosters personal and professional growth. Many of my clients are small business owners or professionals in high-stress fields like healthcare, and I cherish the opportunity to offer them a moment of relaxation and care.

In addition to my salon work, I consult with professionals in various industries to help them grow their businesses. Leveraging my skills and experience, I provide strategic advice on business development, branding, and customer engagement. My consulting work is driven by a passion for helping others succeed and building sustainable businesses grounded in strong values.

What truly sets my salon apart is the holistic approach I bring to my work. I believe in the power of self-confidence and positivity, and I strive to create an environment where clients and peers feel inspired and supported. Having experienced feelings of exclusion early in my career, I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive and empowering space for everyone who walks through my door.

My goal is to help people feel beautiful and confident, knowing that this positive energy extends beyond the salon and impacts the world around us. I’m proud to see the growth and success of my clients and colleagues, and I’m committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale are critical components of a successful business, and my approach is deeply influenced by my own journey and values. Here’s the advice I’d offer:

Foster an Inclusive and Supportive Environment: From my experience, creating a workplace where everyone feels included and valued is essential. When team members feel like they belong, their engagement and morale naturally improve. Encourage open communication, celebrate diverse perspectives, and ensure that everyone’s contributions are recognized.

Lead by Example: Demonstrating the values and work ethic you expect from your team is crucial. I’ve found that showing genuine care and enthusiasm for your work and your team members sets a positive tone. For example, I make it a point to be approachable and supportive, offering help and encouragement where needed.

Provide Opportunities for Growth: Investing in your team’s professional development not only enhances their skills but also boosts morale. I regularly take advanced classes to stay updated with industry trends, and I encourage my team to pursue their own educational opportunities. Offering workshops, training sessions, and mentorship can keep your team motivated and engaged.

Create a Positive Work Culture: A positive work environment is key to high morale. In my salon, we prioritize creating a welcoming and cozy atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Simple practices like starting the day with a team greeting or celebrating each other’s successes can make a significant difference.

Encourage Work-Life Balance: Acknowledging the importance of work-life balance helps prevent burnout and maintains high morale. I understand the demands on my clients’ and colleagues’ time, so I offer flexibility and support. Encouraging your team to take breaks and respect their personal time fosters a healthier, more productive work environment.

Offer Constructive Feedback and Recognition: Regular, constructive feedback helps team members understand their strengths and areas for improvement. Alongside this, recognizing and celebrating achievements, both big and small, can greatly enhance morale. I make it a point to acknowledge my team’s efforts and accomplishments, which helps maintain a positive atmosphere.

Build Strong Relationships: Taking the time to connect with your team on a personal level can strengthen bonds and improve morale. I make an effort to learn about my team members’ goals, challenges, and interests, which helps build trust and a sense of community.

By integrating these practices, you can create a work environment where your team feels valued, motivated, and engaged. A supportive and inclusive atmosphere not only enhances individual satisfaction but also drives collective success.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

For young entrepreneurs, I recommend checking out a few key resources that have greatly influenced my journey. Since I have advanced ADHD, I often find it easier to absorb information through audiobooks and podcasts rather than traditional reading. This way, I can multitask—whether I’m doing laundry, coloring, or just relaxing.

Two books that have been especially impactful for me are “Atomic Habits” by James Clear and “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne. “Atomic Habits” is fantastic for learning how to build positive habits and make small, effective changes. “The Secret” focuses on the power of positive thinking and the law of attraction, which helps in setting a strong mindset for tackling challenges.

I also rely on two podcasts that I can’t live without: “Build with Rob” by Rob Dyrdek and “The Mel Robbins Podcast” with Mel Robbins. Rob’s podcast is full of insights on entrepreneurship and creativity, while Mel’s show offers motivational advice and practical tips for overcoming obstacles. Both hosts have a friendly and encouraging style that I find really uplifting.

Sometimes, when things get too intense, a good comedy show or time with friends can provide the perfect break and help keep things light.

But perhaps the most important resource for me has been surrounding myself with a positive and supportive circle of people. It’s crucial to have a network that genuinely supports your goals. If someone isn’t backing your business, it’s best to keep them at a distance from your professional life. Surrounding yourself with growth-minded, positive people helps balance out the challenges and negativity that come with being an entrepreneur.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ehbeautyco.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehbeauty/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elhbeauty/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/1emilyhammond/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/eh-beauty-greenwood-village