Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in beauty services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kara Strautman, owner of About That Lash Life, located in Edmonton and Onoway, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Ladies seeking low-maintenance lashes! I specialize in lash lifting and tinting, and not many lash techs do. It's a more natural, affordable, and lower-maintenance lash look that saves time getting ready in the mornings and doesn't smear or smudge like mascara. It's essentially a perm and dye of your own natural lashes. :)
Tell us about yourself
I used to work in Human Resources of all things! I discovered lash lifting and tinting after becoming allergic to lash extensions and having really bad lash damage from them. I enjoyed this new service and wanted to work for myself, so I decided to leave the corporate world to have more freedom and flexibility. Now I can't imagine not being my own boss!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My greatest accomplishment is hundreds of satisfied clients! I am so grateful for my awesome client base and especially my lash babes that leave me the sweetest Google reviews that are so heartfelt and kind! I feel that I've developed a good reputation, and I am proud that my character and integrity show through to my clients.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The risk and financial investment required to be an entrepreneur. Many people are risk-averse, and you have to accept that there are many unknowns when you start your own venture. If you are passionate, hardworking, patient, and willing to invest in your business, you can be very successful! Many challenges will come your way, but that is also true of life in general. Expect that there will be obstacles to overcome, but you can absolutely do it! Many people quit instead of pushing through; that is why businesses fail. The ones that do well are the ones that look at failures as learning experiences and grow from them and adapt.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Golden rule. Treat everyone how you would want to be treated. It is so important that your client feels appreciated, respected, and satisfied than making a buck off that person. I think this is the key to my success and standing out amongst the crowd. I truly care about my clients, and they know it!
- Online presence. Do not underestimate the value of Google reviews, search engine optimization, photos of your work, social media, a professional website, etc. You need to be willing to invest in your business.
- Follow up and follow through. This is related to my first tip, in a way. I always follow up with my clients to check in and make sure they are satisfied with their services. This is a great time to ask for a review too! The personal touch opens up the dialogue for feedback, and clients feel valued and appreciated. Take accountability and follow through to make it right if needed as well.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would recommend preparing, being persistent, and being patient. Preparation to set up your business well includes researching the best systems, programs, and products. Be persistent in your hard work and patient when it takes your business to build up a client base and be running smoothly. I am in the service industry, and I remember when I first started, someone told me that it takes two years to build up a good client base. I always kept that in mind and didn't get discouraged. After two years, I had a solid client base even amidst a pandemic!
Keep in mind that you are your brand when you are a business owner. Who you are as a person (your character, values, and how you treat people) and how you present yourself to the world (professionalism, how you dress, and even just smiling) all make up your brand.
Training and certification are very important in the service business.
Mentorship and personal development have been huge contributors to my personal and professional growth as well. Never stop investing in yourself if you want to grow!
Wishing you all the best in your business endeavours - you got this!!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.vagaro.com/us02/aboutthatlashlife
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboutthatlashlife/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aboutthatlashlife
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.