We recently connected with Laura Abbott and have shared our conversation below.
Laura, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of the most important things we can do as business owners is ensure that our customers feel appreciated. What’s something you’ve done or seen a business owner do to help a customer feel valued?
One of my favorite things about my job is that I can take care of my clients in a personal way. I am often there to talk to during their best times and hardest times. So whenever I can I give back to my customers and my community. One of my clients has recently taken on a caretaker role and expressed they were not taking the time to care for themselves as much – so I got them a gift certificate for a service they mentioned. They were reminded to take that time and were so appreciative. They even brought me a gift at their next appointment in appreciation. Without the people who see me I wouldn’t have a job and I am so grateful for them.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
After graduating from college, I worked for a while in retail management, where I really enjoyed getting to know the regular clients and my employees, but the job itself – not so much! When the recession hit retail really hard in 2009 I knew it was time to make a change. I knew I loved working with people and making them feel good about themselves so I thought with my background in fashion it would be a natural fit to go into the beauty industry! I works with all kinds of people from different backgrounds and my goal is for them to feel their individual best.
Going into my tenth year as a business owner and longer as a stylist, I am growing my business through education with creativity. This last summer I hosted a day summer camp working with teens to teach them tips and tricks about makeup and hair. I have also began to offer some quality items for styling as well and am planning on some personal styling classes as well.
I love connecting with new people and am always growing my clientele. From bridal looks, cut, color, photo shoot hair and makeup – I do a little bit of everything and love to keep growing in this career. Its different every day and I love it so much!
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
When my clients look for information about my services, whether it is online or through vendors/other client, they will definitely hear about my care for who is in my chair. I also value the clients time and am consistent in my work. I do whatever I can to not run behind (crucial on wedding getting ready days!) and am respectful of all individuals.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
A few years ago I felt a bit of burnout and I went looking for some additional resources outside of my community. While the podcast has recently ended – Being Boss – and the community that was included- really offers great resources for business owners. They cover so many of the topics that come up when running a business. Through the podcast I also learned about Mike Michalowicz and his great books – I recommend Profit First to anyone who is just opening a business – it really helps to get your finances and numbers on track and set you up for success!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.laurajartistry.com
- Instagram: @laurajartistry
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraJArtistryHMUA
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurajartistry/