We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amanda Stafford a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Amanda , thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
My work ethic comes from a family of hard workers. None of their success in their businesses were handed to them, so I knew if I wanted to make something for myself, I was going to need to work hard. Most direct influence of work ethic would be from my mom. Even when she “stayed at home” with us before getting into real estate, we knew what hard work was. It was not lost on my siblings or I that anything would be handed to us. When I started at a top salon in Grand Rapids at 19, I learned very quickly it was going to take a lot more than technical skill to make it in this industry.
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?
I own my own business under the umbrella of a wonderful salon, Benji. Part of my role as general manager, is to help with community outreach and events. We strive to be a part of this amazing city, as more than just a pretty building. The ownership of Benji, Amy, lindsey (salon manager) and myself, really use our different backgrounds to come together and give back in different ways. We are always growing, expanding and thinking of different ways to make the salon environment better! We have a bi-‘monthly “benji person” giftcard nomination giveaway, we participate in many local charities and many stylists donate time, and services. Recently we opened “benji boutique” which we have right inside the salon! It truly is a one stop shop! We offer all hair services, spray tans, nails, skin, massages, waxing and medi spa! When you step inside, you can tell the difference.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The best advice for new stylist/ anyone in the service industry, would be to do an assistant program with a mentor. I owe a lot of who I am as a stylist to those who first influenced me.
Be hungry to learn, ready to grow and able to take constructive criticism.
Lastly, be the hardest worker in the room. Someone will always notice and it’ll take you places.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is anyone who’ trusts me to sit in my chair. It doesn’t matter what your story, background or status is. All are welcome in my chair! My clients all have similar goals, to love your hair when you leave and feel like you had an relaxing experience without spending all day there. I strive to perform efficient techniques, so whether you’re a busy mom, only have your lunch hour, or a boss woman that’s doing it all, your time and money is important and I appreciate you wanting to spend it with me. I’m always thankful for the opportunity and I believe that separates me from others:
Contact Info:
- Website: Benjisalon.com
- Instagram: Amandastaffordstylist
- Facebook: Amanda zokoe stafford
Image Credits
Kat Sherman photography
