Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michelle Healy . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Michelle , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Looking back on your career, have you ever worked with a great leader or boss? We’d love to hear about the experience and what you think made them such a great leader.
“You are ready”. Those three words changed my confidence and trajectory of my career. Three years into my dream career as a hairstylist I started second guessing if I had made the right decision. Could a shy introverted personality type like myself really be successful in an industry known for extroverts? Feeling unsure I packed up everything and moved to a new state applying for any job that I thought I was qualified for and simultaneously working with a career coach to reevaluate everything. As fate would have it, I found a front desk position at an intimate hair salon in La Jolla, California. I started all over again from the ground up and it was the best thing that could have ever happened to me! I had the opportunity to apprentice the boss and she changed the trajectory of my career. Cheng Tan was a young, accomplished, driven woman who shared her knowledge of hairdressing with me. Her sun-kissed color techniques are what inspire me to this day. She created an environment that was supportive and prioritized education. We also had unique opportunities going to New York and working fashion week. However, it was her ambitious nature and encouraging words that influenced me the most. Seeing a young woman fearlessly lead a successful salon was inspiring. Eventually I told her I wanted to start my own business and she said, “you are ready”.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I am a specialized hairstylist with over 14 years of experience. As the mom of two little ones and owning my own business, I know how busy life can be and how challenging it can be to make time for yourself. I specialize in creating gradient hair color that grows out seamlessly so that your hair color looks beautiful when you leave the salon AND in the in between. Hair is an accessory you wear everyday and I am passionate about helping women discover the haircut and color that best accentuates their features. When you feel beautiful it’s empowering. Education is a top priority within my business. Last year I completed a year long color teacher training program and this year I look forward to completing my color analyst certification. The beauty industry is always evolving and I enjoy sharing what I learn with my clients.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being a hairstylist is working with clients who are supportive of my art and are in alignment with my specialty and what I love to do which is creating beautiful sun-kissed color. Hair is a special part of your identity and to have someone place their trust in me and chose to work with me is an honor. There is no better feeling than to help someone feel good.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
When I started my business in 2014 I had zero clients. I had recently moved back to Seattle after being in San Diego and was starting all over again, but this time with the added pressure of being a sole proprietor. I worked several jobs- one of which was at a blow dry/style bar and I handed out business cards and cross promoted. I went to networking meetings and meet-ups. However, it was Instagram and eventually referrals that really launched my business. If you believe you can and put in the work, you will succeed. 
Contact Info:
- Website: http://michellehealyhair.com/
- Instagram: michellehealyhair
Image Credits
Tiffany Kelterer Photo