We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Autumn Yarbrough a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Autumn , 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?
Navigating spaces where I am the only African American female has provided me with a profound opportunity to champion diversity and drive meaningful change. My approach focuses on demonstrating the value of varied perspectives and the importance of inclusivity. By sharing my unique experiences and insights, I aim to enrich discussions and decision-making processes, underscoring that our differences can propel innovation and understanding.
Success in these environments stems from maintaining authenticity and confidence in my identity and abilities. I actively engage with my peers, fostering open communication and mutual respect, which helps break down barriers and dispel preconceived notions. This proactive participation not only establishes my voice but also paves the way for others who will come after me, ensuring the room never feels the same again.
By embodying the principle that we are all human and capable, regardless of our appearance, I contribute to a broader cultural shift towards a more inclusive and equitable environment. Each interaction is a chance to educate, influence, and inspire, turning the challenge of being the “only one” into a catalyst for transformation and unity.
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?
At NU Standard, I’m dedicated to transforming the way textured hair is cared for by promoting overall wellness and solving common hair issues like dryness and breakage. Our unique approach includes a three-step hair-wellness system that treats hair from the inside out. This system encompasses nutritional supplements to prevent hair loss, an innovative bond builder treatment for salon use, and high-performance, travel-friendly haircare products.
I’m excited to introduce HYDRASILK Hydrating Bond System, a part of our salon treatment range designed to leave hair feeling silky and hydrated. With my heritage deeply rooted in the haircare industry, I am committed to pioneering change and empowering women to maintain lifelong healthy hair with trusted products.
My brand isn’t just about products; it’s about creating a NU Standard in haircare that celebrates and nurtures the beauty of all.
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?
Looking back on my journey with NU Standard, I can pinpoint three qualities that were pivotal in shaping my path: integrity, resilience, and vulnerability. Each played a unique role in both my personal growth and the development of my brand.
Integrity has been the cornerstone of my business philosophy. It’s about doing the right thing, even when it’s challenging, and ensuring that our products genuinely meet the needs they claim to address. For those early in their journey, my advice is to remain true to your values and commitments. This will not only build trust with your customers but also foster a strong, ethical foundation for your business.
Resilience has allowed me to navigate the many ups and downs of entrepreneurship. The road is rarely smooth, and setbacks are part of the process. To develop resilience, embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Don’t shy away from difficult situations; instead, see them as chances to resolve and refine your approach.
Vulnerability might seem counterintuitive in business, but it has been crucial for building genuine connections and leading effectively. By being open about the challenges I face, I’ve been able to forge deeper relationships with my team and our customers. For those starting out, I recommend embracing vulnerability as a strength. Allow yourself to be open about uncertainties and seek support when needed. This can lead to meaningful collaborations and insights.
For anyone early in their entrepreneurial journey, actively cultivating these qualities can profoundly impact your effectiveness and satisfaction in your work. By practicing integrity, building resilience, and embracing vulnerability, you equip yourself with a toolkit that will support enduring success and fulfillment.
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 challenge we’re facing at NU Standard is visibility. To overcome this, we’re focusing on building strong partnerships with other brands, industry leaders, and the professional stylists’ community. These collaborations have been instrumental in amplifying our reach and impact, especially as we navigate the constraints of limited capital.
By aligning with established entities that share our commitment to hair wellness, we leverage their networks and credibility, enhancing our visibility without the need for substantial marketing budgets. These strategic partnerships not only help us reach a wider audience but also strengthen our brand’s presence in the industry. Through this collaborative approach, we’re able to grow and bring our unique products to more people effectively.
Contact Info:
- Website: nustandardbeauty.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nustandardbeauty
