Essentials of Running your own Business

You ever think you’re not cut out for something? You try so hard to make it work but you’re just frustrated and want to give up. Schooling, picking a profession..the list goes on. It’s frustrating not knowing exactly what’s next in life.

That’s exactly what my dilemma was a few months ago. I became a lash technician and enrolled into cosmetology school while still working full time, being a wife, & mom. What was I thinking? Who knew building my future career was so hard? Trust me when I say I didn’t think all of this through and it became a learning experience. I wanted to share my experiences and educate you on what you must know while always being true to yourself. I got burned and this is where story time begins. I like to keep it as real as possible with you guys!

I learned very early on in the beauty industry that it is vital to know who you are and stick to that. There are a lot of people that look at someone like me and automatically think I’m naive. Here’s what I will tell you: I am young, determined, hard-working but NEVER STUPID. I have attended business school, graduated college with a degree in education, I have been doing makeup since I was 18 years old, & I was raised by parents who were in corporate America who taught us business at an early age. I know how to conduct myself in a professional matter.

Fast forward now …

A few months ago, I began searching for the next step in my beauty career. (I currently work full time in the education field but want to eventually make my own business my full time career.) I work very closely with other makeup artists that were offering eyelash extensions and lifts so I decided to start there. I looked for a bunch of places who taught classes but didn’t realize the class would be over $1000. Where was I going to get that money? So I let it go. Maybe this wasn’t the route to take. A few days later I’m scrolling through Facebook and see an ad for someone hiring eyelash technicians that they’re willing to train so I inquired, met with the owner several times, and began the process of learning on the job. I am a visual learner so I got it some of the technique down packed within two sessions with a friend of mine. I worked out a deal with the owner that I would get certified and work off the cost of the program. Sounds like a great deal, right?!

Remember when I said I wasn’t naive or stupid? I lied. This is one of those moments. I graduated my program, passed my test with flying colors, and then get handed a working contract. Here’s where I had a moment of clarity. I had it looked over and decided to not accept the terms. It turned ugly really quick. I felt defeated. I trusted someone and this is what it turned into. This was a great learning experience for me. First off, I’m proud I kept my cool even though inside I wanted to wreck the whole establishment.

Lesson #1: Don’t undervalue yourself!

Always know your worth and if your gut feeling is telling you to step back, do it! Yes it may all sound good but there’s nothing worse than accepting less and being miserable because now you’re stuck! Don’t settle for less.

Lesson #2: Stick to the script!

Prepare yourself for the worst possible scenario and always know your game plan! You never want to be caught off guard or seem flustered. People can pick up on that. Know what you’re walking in with and what you’re walking out with.

Lesson #3: Compromise!

Don’t go into a meeting guns blazing! You’ll look like a hot head and unprofessional. Stay cool and make sure you listen to everything before trying to negotiate. It may be a hard thing to do but I promise you’ll get more respect.

The biggest lesson of all is PATIENCE!

Be patient with others but also yourself. A business worth fighting for is one that takes time.

I hope y’all enjoyed some of the business essentials and reading my experience. I will be back soon with more stories and life lessons. If you want to reach out for more business essentials or questions, feel free to contact me on IG @intoxikatedd_

Thank you for sticking with me!

Kaitlyn 💄💋