Profile of an award-winning front-of-house manager: samantha skelly
Published
20th Jan 2012
by Admin
Samantha Skelly is partner/manager at the multi-award winning Michael van Clarke salon in London.
Samantha is part of the team that saw the salon scoop an unprecedented four awards at HJ's 2011 British Hairdressing Business Awards - including the Front of House Team of the Year, for which she was largely responsible.
As well as taking charge of the salon in Marylebone, Samantha also reports on sales and performance and reviewing potential for up-sales and minimising wasted time.
Here, Samantha talks about how she achieved her current role.
How did you end up in your job?
Whilst browsing for jobs online I came across the advertisement. I thought to myself, "Hmm sounds interesting, perhaps I'll give it a shot". I sent off my CV and forgot about it until about a month later when I received a phone call to come in for an interview.
I was totally shocked - at this point I was already working at Virgin Active as a Personal Trainer. Although I was already working, curiosity got the best of me and I decided to go see what it was all about.
After the interview I was thrilled, but was given the usual line: "We have lots of people to interview, so we will call you if we want to take it to the next stage". Weeks passed thinking I didn't make the cut and then I received a call and was offered a trial which led to a full time job! I was ecstatic.
What tips would you give for anyone who wants your job?
You need to have the passion to deliver, the drive to keep trying through the hard times and you need a clear and achievable goal.
The hair and beauty industry is mostly glamorous but don't underestimate it, it's serious work! If you think you can sit back and buff your nails all day, you're heading into the wrong ball game.
What are the best and worst parts of your job?
The best part of my job is my team. I'm fortunate enough to work with such a diverse talented group of individuals who inspire me every day.
It's very rewarding to see shy apprentices we took on a year ago, grow into confident hairstylists.
Worst part? Doing the occasional maths equation, most hated subject of all time.
What do you like best about being involved in the hair industry?
It's ever evolving - creativity is endless! The hair industry hasn't been granted the respect it deserves. I can't believe how hard our team works.
Being an outsider of the industry and now being submerged into it, I couldn't believe the level of commitment they demonstrate. They pour their hearts into this game, working long hours to achieve a goal. It's truly inspiring.
