We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Andrea Coriolan. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Andrea below.
Andrea, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only one who looks like me in professional settings has definitely presented its challenges, but it has also been an opportunity for growth and empowerment. Firstly, I’ve learned to embrace my unique perspective and experiences. As a Black woman, I bring a diverse range of insights and cultural understanding to the table, which can greatly benefit discussions and decision-making processes within the skincare industry. Secondly, adaptability has been key. I’ve developed the ability to navigate different environments and connect with individuals from various backgrounds. This adaptability allows me to effectively communicate and collaborate with colleagues and clients, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background. Additionally, I’ve found strength in resilience. Despite facing potential biases or misconceptions, I remain focused on my goals and maintain confidence in my abilities. This resilience has helped me overcome obstacles and achieve success in my career.
Furthermore, I recognize the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement. By staying informed about industry trends, advancements in skincare technology, and best practices, I ensure that I remain competitive and relevant in my field.
Lastly, I see myself as a representative and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the skincare industry. I understand the significance of representation and strive to inspire others who may feel underrepresented or marginalized. By leading by example and advocating for greater diversity, I contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable industry for all.
In summary, my effectiveness and success in professional settings, even when I am the only one who looks like me, stem from embracing my uniqueness, being adaptable and resilient, continuously learning and improving, and serving as a champion for diversity and inclusion.
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 proud owner of Luminous Wax and Esthetics as a corrective skin expert. What truly excites me about my work is the opportunity to transform not just someone’s skin, but their confidence and self-esteem as well. At Luminous, I focus on providing personalized skincare solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs and concerns. Whether it’s addressing acne, hyperpigmentation, aging, or other skin issues, I utilize my expertise to create customized treatment plans that deliver visible results. What sets Luminous apart is the emphasis on corrective skincare. Rather than just providing pampering treatments, I am dedicated to improving the overall health and appearance of my clients’ skin. This commitment to excellence has earned me a reputation for delivering exceptional results and has garnered the trust and loyalty of my clientele. In addition to my services, I also prioritize education and empowerment. I believe in equipping my clients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain healthy skin between appointments. Through consultations, product recommendations, and skincare tips, I empower individuals to take control of their skincare journey and achieve long-lasting results. Overall, my goal is not only to provide top-notch skincare treatments but also to create a nurturing and empowering environment where clients feel valued, supported, and confident in their skin. I am passionate about what I do, and I am dedicated to helping my clients look and feel their best every step of the way. Additionally, I’m thrilled to share that there are exciting developments on the horizon for Luminous. We have a plethora of new services, innovative treatments, and special events in the works, and I can’t wait to unveil them to our clients. I’m eager to continue elevating the skincare experience for everyone who walks through our doors. Stay tuned for updates, as we’re just getting started on this new incredible journey, and I can’t wait to share all the exciting developments with you.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. My Expertise in Corrective Skincare. Specializing in corrective skincare has been essential to my success. Developing a deep understanding of skin conditions, treatments, and product formulations has allowed me to provide effective solutions for my clients’ concerns. To develop expertise in a specific area, I recommend pursuing advanced education and training, staying updated on industry trends and research, and gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships.
2. Client Communication and Relationship Building: Building strong relationships with clients is crucial in the spa industry. Effective communication skills, empathy, and the ability to listen actively are key to understanding clients’ needs and expectations. Establishing trust and rapport fosters client loyalty and positive word-of-mouth referrals. To improve communication skills, I suggest practicing active listening, empathy, and clear and concise communication, as well as seeking feedback from clients to continually refine your approach.
3. Business Management and Entrepreneurship: As a spa owner, business management and entrepreneurship skills are essential for success. From financial management to marketing and branding, understanding the business side of running a spa is crucial for growth and sustainability. Investing in business courses, networking with other entrepreneurs, and seeking mentorship from industry veterans can help early-career professionals develop their business acumen.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to prioritize continuous learning, cultivate strong interpersonal skills, and embrace opportunities for growth and development. Seek out mentors and role models who can provide guidance and support, and don’t be afraid to take calculated risks and step out of your comfort zone. Building a successful career in the spa industry requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, but with passion and hard work, anything is possible.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
The number one obstacle I’m currently facing is maintaining consistency on social media. In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, staying engaged and active on social platforms is crucial for building brand awareness, connecting with clients, and driving business growth. However, balancing the demands of running a spa with creating regular, high-quality social media content can be challenging. I have put a few things in place like scheduled content planning sessions, time management, and batch content creation. By implementing these strategies, I’m working to overcome the challenge of maintaining consistency on social media while running a business. Through effective time management, delegation, and strategic use of resources, I’m committed to building a strong online presence that supports the growth and success of my spa business.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.luminouswaxandesthetics.com
- Instagram: @Luminouswaxandesthetics
- Facebook: Luminous wax and spa
- Other: Tik Tok @Luminouswaxandesthetics
Image Credits
Photos by @statiajonesstudios (Statia Jones)
