We recently connected with Jana Bunge and have shared our conversation below.
Jana, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
I love this question! We are all created with unique features, attributes, and giftings. God’s design is painted on each of us, and when we embrace who we are and our individuality, then we’ll become the best version of ourselves.
Being in the beauty industry, I am constantly aware and daily observe the differences and similarities of my clients and families – physical, emotional, cultural – each of these play a part in this journey called life. And I am honored to “do life” with the families I am connected to!
Being effective/successful is a journey that continues throughout life. And I love being the only one in the room that looks like me!
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My start in the beauty industry began over three decades ago and has evolved from early experience with major cosmetic lines, to on location hair & makeup for red carpet events, television shows, film, photo shoots to my favorite…weddings!!! I’m honored to be part of the working beauty industry!
My experience over the years has taught me that the passion for excellence in bridal makeup & hair goes hand in hand with organization, skill and building lasting relationships with our brides and clients. I am blessed to have a fabulous team of incredible artists to provide that seamless experience for our brides and parties. Our attention to detail is vital – we will accentuate each woman’s natural beauty, as well as help create a relaxing atmosphere and calmness for what can often be a very stressful day.
As a wife and mom of two amazing daughters and grandma of 7, I am truly blessed !
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. Work Ethic: Being the daughter of a hairdresser, as a young teen I looked forward to the Saturdays that I could “help out” at dad’s beauty salon. Cleaning brushes, sweeping the floor, answering the phone – I watched and learned first-hand from my father the importance of knowledge, perfecting the craft, and “just plain being kind to people and meeting their needs.” One of my favorite memories of dad was what he said to his clients as he finished up with their hair…” You look like a million dollars…and your HAIR LOOKS GOOD TOO!” And he meant every word! He was loved by his clientele, many of whom continued with him as weekly clients for over 40 years. I had a great role model for the importance of a good work ethic!
2. Developing the art of listening to others:
This is such an important part of navigating life! And in business, when a client is communicating, they want to be seen as the ONLY person who matters in that moment. Giving my complete attention to that person speaking. Tune out everything else and give validity and attention without distraction so the person feels not only heard but understood. Even a nod, smile and other facial expressions while listening – reflect on what’s being said. This shows the speaker that I’m truly hearing and understanding what they’re saying.
The art of listening truly unlocks a leadership superpower! It cultivates trust and respect, nurturing an environment of openness and trust.
3. The practical and professional – each day strive to learn something new:
Life is rarely boring if we’re open to learning new things. From books to podcasts, online classes and workshops – developing a growth mindset is imperative when new information, skills or hobbies present themselves. I’m always on the lookout for a new method, product, technique or idea that I can incorporate into our company and beauty business! Networking with fellow vendors and surrounding myself with likeminded people is the key. Some believe that “you’re the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with”…think about that! Set goals that are specific, measurable and attainable!
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Being a business owner can sometimes be overwhelming! The balance of tasks, time management, communication with clients and a healthy personal life can be compared to walking a tightrope – one small slip and down you go…ha! My strategy?
First – identify any overwhelming feelings and look to the underlying cause that is reinforcing the stress.
Second – step back and look at the full picture. It’s normal to have negative or overwhelming thoughts sometimes. But remember that those thoughts aren’t always the truth – there’s probably other parts to the story you’re not considering!
Third – Take action and give yourself some grace! This is a time to pause for a moment, focus and recharge/reset. Knowing that I’m doing all I can to handle the situation, and “this too shall pass”.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.janaandco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janaandcomakeupandhairdesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JanaAndCoMakeupAndHairDesign/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jana-bunge-602a456/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/JanaandCo
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jana-and-co-makeup-and-hair-design-simi-valley
Image Credits
DiConti Weddings Figlewcz Photography Aura Elizabeth Photography
