Meet Te’kia Young

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Te’kia Young. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Te’Kia, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I don’t know that imposter syndrome is something that you overcome. For me, it’s more like managing the bouts of it as they come and go with new levels in your career. I’ve always been a slide under the radar type of person. I like to get in do my job and go home. I always do them well but I never really cared for a lot of attention surrounding my accomplishments at work. Transitioning from corporate to the beauty industry was completely opposite of what was comfortable for me. The beauty world is all about showcasing your skills out loud and proving that you’re the best at the services you provide. In the beginning I had no problem doing that because I had maybe 200 followed and low engagement. That was easy and comfortable for me because it felt like old times. It was just me, my job, and no attention. As I started to gain traction, imposter syndrome hit hard. So much so that I turned down opportunities solely because I was scared and felt like a fraud. It was crazy to me that people were seeking anything from little old me. I wasn’t able to hide anymore and I couldn’t figure out why. What I had to come to terms with and realize is that we live in the world of social media and there are many options for anything you could possibly need at your finger tips. These individuals are literally doing their research and still choosing you out of the bunch. They are choosing you! What I do know is that we are also in an opinionated era and when we don’t like something we have no problem telling anyone that will listen that we don’t like it. No one is going to purposely book a service they don’t like. Accepting that, the praises from my clients, and the opportunities that continue to be presented made me feel like maybe there is space for me and I do deserve to be here. As business owners I feel like we are always thinking of ways to sharpen our skills or offer more because we don’t feel like we’re good enough. Which in turn can create a new “imposter”. But, I think it’s important to always remember that there are people who like you and fully support you where you are currently. Embrace it.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m a licensed manicurist. I own and operate Snobish Beauty in Durham, N.C. We are an acrylic free location that offers all things gel. Nail art and Gel-X nail extensions are my most popular services. Although Gel-X extensions are a few years old now it’s still considered a service that is newer in the industry. For the most part a lot of my clients first experience with them has been with me. Everyone is always shocked at how innovative it is and how much the application and options vary from your standard acrylic service. Art will always be exciting. There’s always a new trend to try as well as classic styles. I think independent nail artist bring a certain edge and exclusivity that you can’t find at most traditional salons. Our clients like feeling like trendsetters and receiving services that they feel like they can’t get anywhere else.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I’ll start with education. Although you don’t learn a whole lot about doing nails I can most definitely say that nail school taught me how to be clean and keep people safe. I think that’s more important than the actual outcome of your nails. I strive to provide a location for my clients that not only I would use but that I would feel safe sending my loved ones to.

Customer service is really important especially when running your own business. Most days it will be easy but there are some moments where your professionalism will be tested. I believe in staying firm with your policies and your boundaries. If you keep the lines clear that avoids the gray areas in my opinion. Of course you can’t please everyone but I think it’s important to learn to be ok with that too. Unpopular opinion, some time’s you’re the person that’s wrong. In those situations apologies go far as well as some attempt at a peace treaty I.e. a complimentary or discounted service. At the end of the day I treat people the way I would want to be treated.

Lastly, I’ll touch on experience. As much as it hurt to hear it as a newbie you really know nothing lol. Nails come in all different shapes and sizes and although most things work for many people you will find yourself in situations where it doesn’t work for someone. Practice! Practice on any one that will let you. If all else fails use your own hands. Keep up with your continuing education and take classes with those whose work you admire. Find other nail techs that you can go to for assistance. Most times you’ll find yourself needing it and other times you may find yourself offering it. Nails trends change fast and you will find yourself at varying skill levels.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

I’m grateful for everyone that has ever sat in my nail chair and held hands with me. Private nail artist almost run their business completely opposite of traditional salons. When it’s one person that runs everything time management skills are extremely important. In my opinion, private services are for people who are planners. Unfortunately, everyone is not a good fit. It’s important that both parties come to terms with that. That’s also why both private and traditionals will always be in business. There is a nail environment for everybody. I think an ideal client would be someone who is punctual and sticks to their schedule. A good communicator and also follows guidelines. Someone with a good personality and loves fun nails. Ultimately, I just want to make you happy and have a good time while doing so.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://snobishbeauty.as.me/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snobishbeauty?igsh=MTA4Nm1iZHpkbHRoOQ==