The Post: Beauty therapist and owner, Chloco Beauty Boutique
The Post Holder: Chloe McAnirn
HOW I BECAME A BEAUTY THERAPIST
Client experience is at the heart of beauty therapist, Chloe McAnirn’s work.
Give a brief outline of your career to date.
I trained in Beauty Therapy with Roberta Mechan International College of Beauty, Belfast at the age of 18, then I got my first job in a salon in Bangor, which I loved. After several years gaining experience, there was the dip in the economy which made me have a little think and I realised that I could practice independently, be self-employed and still have a good salary.
I went to London to train in semi-permanent lash extensions and went mobile. I charged about 30% less than leading salons and as a result was kept busy full time.
Then, keeping with the trends I trained in threading, straight away I was super busy and my business has been growing ever since.
Now because of the support of my amazing family and clients, I have been fortunate enough to open my own Chloco salon in Bangor town centre.
What was your favourite subject at school?
Art was definitely my favourite subject. I loved the freedom and flare.
Did you go on to further/higher education, if so what did you study and where?
I actually failed my 11+, which to this day still upsets me. It knocked my confidence and I felt forever stupid. Because I know how it feels, I really try to build up any of my younger clients who haven’t achieved the high standards they put on themselves. Exams don’t define you; with a positive outlook, an outgoing personality and a handful of enthusiasm you can achieve almost anything.
How did you get into your area of work?
My exam results weren’t the best, to say the least. I passed them all but decided I would be more suited to a practical career. I loved the anatomy and physiology element of beauty therapy. I could comprehend everything and excelled, which was a real confidence boost.
Is this what you always wanted to do?
I always wanted to be a teacher when I was younger. I knew that beauty could lead to a career in teaching and I completed my qualification to teach beauty last year.
Were there any particular essential qualifications or experience needed?
Beauty is an ever growing industry, therefore to stay on top of the game you need to be fresh and forward thinking with new treatments.
I train in one or two new treatments a year. In the past two years I have completed courses in; micro-blading (semi-permanent
make-up), dermaplaning (nonabrasive skin resurfacing), LVL lash enhancement (lash lift), laser hair removal and tattoo removal as well as my teaching accreditation. It can be costly to constantly train but it is so worth it for your clients. Offering them the best, most up to date services there are, really helps them to evolve with you and your salon keeps a loyal clientele.
Are there alternative routes into the job?
For someone looking to get into beauty, you can do so in many ways, I trained privately with Roberta Mechan as I wanted an intensive training course and examiners from independent boards, also I wanted the international qualification CIDESCO, which Roberta offers. You can go to a technical college and do the course full time, or part time, but whichever path you pick, you must obtain the same qualifications.
What are the main personal skills your job requires?
The main personal skills are, a strong personality and a commitment to your clients. I have had the same clients for over 10 years.
I have been with them through boyfriends, marriages, divorces, babies, deaths, you name it. As a beauty therapist you are like an extended family member. I always think Beauty Therapy is the perfect name for my job role as you are making them feel and look beautiful while giving them some therapy. Oh and you need to have magic hands!
What does a typical day entail?
I start by making myself a glass of hot water, I then prep the room ensuring it is warm and cosy with lots of candles.
I always love to come down and greet my clients at the door. Client experience is what Chloco is all about. Some clients say it’s because I want the exercise of running up and down the stairs – partially true but it’s more client care! I bring each client up and wrap them in blankets on my heated couch, carry out the treatment, rebook them, walk them back down the stairs, and repeat x 10!
What are the best and most challenging aspects of the job?
The most challenging aspects come about because of the high standards I set for myself and my salon. I’m typically a relaxed person but when it comes to my client’s satisfaction I tend to be very hard on myself. I am a bit of a perfectionist and will always try and give my clients 100% of me and my integrity.
Why is what you do important?
My job is important because it’s about so much more than just the beauty aspect. Yes, it sounds clichéd but it is about how a person feels within. Chloco focuses on self care and making my clients feel positive about themselves.
Sometimes, if it is needed, I ask my clients to name three positive things about themselves. This gets an immediate laugh. Then a few nervous giggles as they redden and try to name generic examples. When they do take it seriously they feel great and their self confidence is boosted. Feeling better means looking better.
What advice would you give anyone looking to follow a similar career path?
My advice for people considering a career in beauty, is to try and do a job placement first and foremost. Yes there is a lot of glitter and glam but you do have to work physically very hard, cleaning and organising treatments. It gives you an insight and you will know after a week if it’s for you.
If you weren’t doing this what would you like to do?
Managing the project for the renovation of my new salon has been an education in the building trade and project management – perhaps that could be another career option for me! There has been a lot of coordination and organisation involved but it will all be worth it when I can offer my clients the best experience possible.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to yourself on your first day?
Don’t panic Chloé! At the end of the day we are all just people. On my first day I was very nervous, that soon wore off and now it’s all second nature. That and don’t walk on the spray tan floor with bare feet!
Describe your ideal day off.
A sunny day trip up the North coast with my lovely man and little boy, Ted.