We were lucky to catch up with Jyla Rogers recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jyla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?
I do believe I am happier as a business owner. Prior to working for myself full time, I worked as a pharmacy technician and a marketing intern at my University. I enjoyed each job I had but I knew I had to choose what would make me the most happiest in the end. I ended up quitting both jobs and took on doing hair full time. It was one of the biggest changes I had made in my adult life. The biggest thought I had was, would I make enough money to live.? I made that decision almost 3 years ago and Im so glad I took the leap of faith!
I had a huge support system that encouraged me to become a business owner. I felt that it made me more confident in what I do.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Jyla Rogers, I am the owner of StylesByBabyblue LLC.
Growing up I always showed interest in hair, my parents bought me a bunch of mannequins to play with and my mom taught me how to braid. Having a sister was the best thing ever because I could practice on her to learn different styles. Although I enjoyed doing hair, it wasn’t my main focus. I played the violin up until my junior year of high school and then I decided I wanted to really focus on hair. I joined Butler Tech at my high school where I received my Cosmetology license.
Being able to do hair professionally, allowed me to get through to college financially and build a clientele.
My main focus in the industry has always been natural hair and protective styling, This includes braids, locs, twists, and just maintaining healthy hair without the use of harsh chemicals, I know providing this service to my clients sets me apart from others because I actually care about the health of ones hair and I take the extra step to provide tips and educate my clients about products outside of the salon.
I am most proud to have the support that I have, and I really enjoy my clients (existing/new), Being a cosmetologist is much more than just providing a service, I’m a listening ear for my clients, I support their hobbies/interests, and apparently a magician to some (lol)
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
In college, I majored in business marketing. This was the one thing I felt I was not as strong in while trying to successfully start a business. Many of my classes involved public speaking so I was able to work pass my fear of presenting myself to others. That very thing is what helped me pass out business cards to people I would meet.
Facebook has always been my main platform for marketing, It allowed me to connect with potential clients in the area and other cosmetologists who could provide help to me when needed. I’ve always posted photos and reels to show the growth of my work throughout the years. My favorite videos to post are the time lapse that shows the entire process of me doing a style.
My personality also plays a big part in my social media presence, I often post funny or relatable content that allows people to engage with me.
My advice for people trying to build up their social media would be to stay consistent and be yourself. Post anything you can related to your work. People are always watching even when you think they aren’t.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele would have to be providing the services, other cosmetologist don’t. Shampooing is a very controversial topic in the industry and many clients want to have the full salon experience, By providing just this one service increases my clientele tremendously,
Another thing is actually listening to what your client wants and being a able to provide a balance with what they need as well. This allows to me be creative while still giving my clients what they want and love their image when they leave from the salon.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stylesbybabyblue.com
- Instagram: @stylesbybabyblue
- Facebook: Jyla Rogers
- Youtube: StylesByBabyblue
Image Credits
StylesByBabyblue