We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bonnie Curtis. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bonnie below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Bonnie with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I have to give all credit to my parents for my work ethic. When I was young, going to school was not negotiable. It isn’t always fun but you just suck it up and go. So I think that carried over into my work life. I also spent over ten years working at a salon where I didn’t have anyone that could step in if I didn’t come into work. The best clients recognize consistency and reliability. In the beginning when I didn’t have the confidence in my abilities I at least knew I’d show up and do my best. I’d make sure the client is comfortable and make the time is about them. Whether that be to just sit in silence so they can relax. Or let them talk about their lives. I never wanted to be the manicurist that talked about their own drama. This job can be extremely draining but I get even more out of it than I put in. So working hard has always paid off! It’s extremely important to me to maintain those qualities of professionalism. It’s what I believe has been instrumental in being successful in this industry.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’ve now been doing nails for almost 20yrs. After a move across the country 5yrs ago I didn’t think I would do them anymore. It just felt like time to move on. After some frustration in looking for other work, I did a random google search found a fantastic nail salon! It was all nails and they did so much nail art. Having previously not done much art I was slightly intimidated when I started. That didn’t last long and I feel in love with the work again. I had also stumbled onto a great neighborhood with fantastic clients.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The top three qualities that have been most impactful would be Maintaining professionalism, respect for clients & coworkers and having a sense of humor! Dress for the job. It’s the beauty industry and you should present yourself in a way for people to easily trust you’ll do a great job. While it’s not easy to get along with everyone you work with, it’s worth it to at least try. You never know when or how you’ll need help. It’s a small world and you never know down the road when you might need those connections. Lastly making people laugh is what sets me apart I think. I really believe most of my clients look forward to our time. It’s a small window of time that I hope people enjoy in more ways than just the manicure.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Looking to the future I would really like to work more directly with a professional nail product brand. Possibly even get into consulting for new professionals or people curious about opening up their own salon or loft.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @bonniejane.nails
- Email: bonnieanderson08@gmail.com
