Meet Keri Burns

We were lucky to catch up with Keri Burns recently and have shared our conversation below.

Keri, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Developing my self-esteem and confidence has been a journey marked by education, experience, and a commitment to positive thinking. Through education, I gained knowledge and skills that empowered me to believe in my abilities and strengths. Each experience, whether challenging or triumphant, contributed to my growth and resilience, reinforcing my sense of self-worth. Embracing positive thinking allowed me to reframe setbacks as opportunities for learning and growth, nurturing a mindset of optimism and self-belief. Over time, this has enabled me to cultivate a deep-rooted confidence in myself, allowing me to navigate life’s uncertainties with resilience and grace.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Twenty years ago, my journey in the cosmetology industry commenced as a licensed manicurist. Over time, fueled by my dedication to learning, I expanded my expertise, obtaining licenses as an esthetician and certified master lash artist. Building strong bonds with hundreds of devoted clients became a cornerstone of my career. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted our industry, prompting me to seize the opportunity to purchase my own salon and day spa with a full liquor license in 2020, transitioning into small business ownership. This venture has been a profound learning experience, surpassing my expectations. Leading others and developing my business has proven to be immensely rewarding, and my passion for this industry has continued to grow. My leadership aspirations center on nurturing and empowering aspiring service providers and entrepreneurs within our field. I’m eagerly looking forward to hosting some of our upcoming events this year. Our next event will celebrate the official start of our beer garden season on May 4th, 2024, with a Kentucky Derby Party. It promises to be a delightful occasion filled with fun and festivities, and I can’t wait to share the excitement with our clients and community.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three impactful aspects stand out:

1. Continuous Learning: Embracing lifelong learning kept me current and allowed me to offer top-notch services.

2. Relationship Building: Cultivating strong client bonds fueled both business growth and personal fulfillment.

3. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Transitioning into small business ownership brought challenges and opportunities, driving my ambition to succeed.

These elements have shaped my journey and continue to guide my pursuit of excellence in the cosmetology industry.

For those early in their journey, prioritize education and skill development. Seek out courses, workshops, and mentorship opportunities to stay updated and improve your craft. Focus on building genuine connections with others. Listen attentively, provide exceptional service, and show genuine care to cultivate long-lasting relationships. Embrace challenges and opportunities with a growth mindset. Take calculated risks, be adaptable, and continuously seek ways to innovate and improve your business. By prioritizing these areas, newcomers can lay a solid foundation for success in the cosmetology industry.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My parents’ unwavering support and positive reinforcement shaped my belief in myself. Their guidance nurtured my critical thinking skills, while their open and non-judgmental approach to challenges made me feel comfortable seeking their help. Their influence has been and continues to be instrumental in my journey, fostering resilience and confidence.

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