We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Allison Agresta. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Allison below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Allison with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My parents divorced when I was in elementary school so finances quickly became a challenge in our household. I entered the work force at a very young age. I began working on a work permit at age 14. I was employed at our local mall in food service and retail. I took the city bus to work each day after school. I learned responsibility, organizational skills, and a strong work ethic were imperative. I completed my technical degree in high school. Three days after I graduated high school I passed my Cosmetology exam where I became licensed and began my career. I had wonderful mentors and leaders who provided me with additional professional training and internships. Because I always took my career very seriously, my mentors were always eager to teach me new skills. I was reliable, and consistent. I knew I needed additional technical training to advance in my career. My mentors knew my character and my strong work ethic. I was committed to my career and my leadership team was willing to reciprocate the same commitment towards my growth. I then spent 18 months learning technical skills, soft skills, and eventually became a salon manager in training before the age of 20. During that time I developed a passion for leadership within the salon industry,
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am the Owner of Grove Salon located in Orlando, Florida. What I love most about the beauty industry is the hairdressers ability to connect with our guests and make them feel beautiful. Although our industry is very creative, I often engage with my staff so they understand the business aspect of the beauty industry. My team has clear path for growth which includes bench marks, and a bonus structure. They are educated and coached on how to overcome obstacles while working behind the chair. I am also very transparent and flexible with my team regarding the operations of the salon. I believe strong relationships are trust are very important between leadership and our staff.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1.) Consistency. Always be consistent. Show up on time. Look the part. Be engaged. Master your craft, whatever it may be.
2.) Education. Never stop learning. Taking continuing education will help to build confidence, skill, and accelerate your career. Continue to invest in yourself.
3.)Communication. Communicate with your peers, your leadership team, and your guests. Say what you mean, and mean what you say.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
Shortly after I moved out on my own, and relocated to Florida a stranger recommended I read the book, “The Road Less Traveled” by M. Scott Peck. I would define this novel as a path to personal growth. I will share a few quotes from the book. “To proceed very far through the desert, you must be willing to meet existential suffering and work it through. In order to do this, the attitude towards pain has to change. This happens when we accept that everything that happens to us has been designed for our spiritual growth.” Another one of my favorite quotes from the book is, “You cannot truly listen to anyone and do anything else at the same time.” In our ever changing world, we can be distracted and not listen to our peers, co-workers, and families. Listening is key in developing relationships professionally, and personally.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.grovesalons.com
- Instagram: @grovesalons
- Facebook: Grove Salon
Image Credits
Allison Agresta, Salon Today Magazine
