At Slick Marketers, we’re privileged to work alongside some of the brightest female talents across North America. This Women’s History Month, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on a few of the remarkable women we admire for their innovation and resilience. Through their inspiring stories, we aim to ignite ambition and encourage girls and women everywhere to pursue their dreams fearlessly. These trailblazing women have shattered glass ceilings, transformed challenges into opportunities, and paved the way for future generations. As we celebrate their achievements, let’s continue to champion empowerment and gender equality.
Among these inspirations stands salon studio owner Heather Safrit, a symbol of elegance, success, and empowerment in the business world. As the salon studio owner and operator of 12 salon suite concept franchises across Palm Beach, FL and Savannah, GA, Heather is credited with driving the growth and success of salon suite concepts. Her unwavering commitment to creating a supportive work environment has nurtured a community of empowered women. Heather epitomizes the essence of a successful entrepreneur and supportive leader.Â
In our interview, Heather shared insights into her journey, offering invaluable advice and reflections on her experiences:
How Have Other Women Shaped Your Career?
Heather’s career was profoundly influenced by the support and mentorship of incredible women that she encountered early in her journey. The first stop in her career after completing college was as an unpaid intern at a major hospital foundation. This is where she was mentored by two remarkable women transitioning into their second careers. One had a background in news journalism, while the other had been a book editor in New York. Their kindness, support, and emphasis on professionalism truly left an indelible mark on Heather. It instilled in her confidence and providing invaluable guidance as she navigated her way through the workplace. They not only introduced her to key individuals in the community, but also entrusted her with significant responsibilities. This helped in fostering her growth and development. These connections have endured over the years, with Heather maintaining friendships with her early mentors decades later. One particular highlight of her career was the opportunity to collaborate professionally with one of them, a testament to the enduring impact of supportive relationships in fostering career success and personal growth.
What Do You Wish You Had Learned Earlier in Your Career as a Future Salon Studio Owner?
Heather highlighted the importance of advocating for oneself and having confidence in one’s worth. She also emphasized the significance of not being afraid to ask for what one believes they deserve. After all, the worst outcome is often just a simple “no.” Heather also underscored the idea that without asking, the answer will always be no. This highlights the necessity of self-assurance and the opportunity for growth that comes from learning and moving forward from each experience.
How Do You Think Companies Would Benefit From Having More Women at the Top?
Heather articulated a compelling argument for the value of having more women in leadership positions within companies. She suggested that while men often prioritize numerical data, women naturally bring a sense of empathy and understanding to decision-making processes. This empathetic approach can be particularly beneficial in areas such as sales, customer service, and design, where connecting with consumers on an emotional level is paramount. Moreover, Heather highlighted the importance of considering women’s perspectives. This includes women as primary consumers and as an increasing presence in the workforce. By incorporating feminine insights and empathy into decision-making, companies can make more holistic and thoughtful choices that resonate with a diverse audience. This ultimately leads to greater success and relevance in today’s evolving business landscape.
What Are Your Thoughts About Work/Life Balance?
All in all, Heather offered a thought-provoking perspective on work-life balance, advocating for what she terms as “work-life choice.” She believes that individuals must actively decide what they want and make choices aligned with their goals. Heather reflected on her own journey in this regard, acknowledging that achieving work-life balance required hard work and sacrifice. She challenged the notion that work-life balance should be readily accessible to everyone, emphasizing that it must be earned through dedication and perseverance. While she acknowledged the importance of balance, she also acknowledged that there are times when sacrifices are necessary to achieve long-term success. Overall, achieving work-life balance is a journey that requires conscious decision-making and perseverance, but ultimately leads to fulfillment and success.
How Should Women Support Other Women?
Heather emphasized the importance of women supporting each other in the workplace, highlighting key strategies for fostering a supportive environment. She suggested that active listening, friendly conversations, and brainstorming sessions are essential. Heather also advocated for mentorship programs and participation in women in business support groups. She believes they offer opportunities for networking, sharing experiences, and addressing workplace challenges in a supportive setting. By creating a network of support, women can feel empowered to discuss issues and seek advice.
What Keeps You Motivated and Driven as a Salon Studio Owner?
Heather shared that she finds her motivation and drive in the pursuit of continuous learning and self-improvement. She believes that there is always room for growth and an expansion of interests, viewing this mindset not as a reflection of inadequacy, but rather as a path towards personal and professional development. Heather’s recent venture into oil painting exemplifies her openness to new experiences and the valuable lessons they offer, which she can apply to her business endeavors. Engaging in activities like painting provides her with a creative outlet and a means to mentally refresh and recharge. Despite initially doubting her artistic abilities, Heather discovered a newfound passion and appreciation for art. She highlighted the importance of exploring diverse interests to stay inspired and motivated in both personal and professional spheres.
Ultimately, Heather Safrit’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of self-belief, continual growth, and female empowerment. As she continues to make strides in the business world, Heather’s story serves as a lighthouse of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders worldwide. In closing, let us heed her advice, believe in ourselves, and strive for greatness, knowing that success is within our reach with determination, confidence, and unwavering support for one another.