We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Igor Sanaev. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Igor below.
Igor, 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?
Since I was a kid I had never fit the “normality” that society creates. Being gay in a very small town in Russia (about 80000 people) was really challenging in a way that I always had to prove I’m better than anyone think I am. That constant “fight-or-flight” mode helped me to develop social and professional skills I’m using now – fast respond and adaptiveness to any changes in life/work etc, ability to read the room and choose tactics accordingly, be able to create unique yet clear look/plan etc.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
For the past 20+ years working as hair&makeup artist across the globe I was trying to build “the perfect kit” by carefully picking the best products from each brand. But even though there’s plenty of good products, something was always off, for example, lashes. Every brand of strip lashes I’ve tried has something I didn’t like (overall look, too thick/hard of a base etc). So I’ve decided to create my own lash line. All my strip lashes are 3D Faux Mink, 100%vegan, Cruelty free, Handmade, Reusable up to 20 times.. it’s 6 different styles so you can choose what fit you or the occasion the most. And I’m happy to announce I started working on my skincare line, first round of samples already is in the making so I hope by the end of this year I’ll present my first couple of skin products.
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. Up to date knowledge. In order to be successful in any occupation you have to be aware of new trends, new techniques, new products on the market etc. only by constant learning and researching you’ll become successful on your field. 2. Be a team player. Although everyone wants a spotlight while working on a project the main goal is to make your client happy. Be flexible and adaptive but make sure your voice is heard.
3. Develop your signature style. Start will basics, learnt from your coworkers, take online classes, combine and integrate, choose what speaks to you the most and eventually your style will become recognized.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
When I was 13-14 I stayed overnight at my friends house without permission. Next morning when I got home my mom and dad had a very serious conversation with me. My dad said: “So you think you’re grownup now? Ok, so from now on you have to pay rent for your room here”. The “rent” was almost nothing but I was already making money by doing manicure and nail designs to my friends moms. So I worked really hard that month and made way more than my “rent”. And that lit a fire under my behind. I realized I’m unstoppable now. The rest is history:)
Contact Info:
- Website: SanaevBeauty.com
- Instagram: Iamigorsanaev
