Big industry trade shows, like the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conferences, Cosmoprof North America (CPNA), or IMATS can offer you a vast and wonderful wealth of information. They are well worth the opportunity, if you are open to being there, and are ready to learn!
Recently, I attended one andfound it to be an amazing resource, and very helpful. The presenters were from around the world, and each one had significant talents to showcase and share. They spoke about their personal expertise - ranging from chemistry to self care, and everything in between. There were volume specialists, brow specialists, and health and safety specialists.
Putting Your Ego Aside
Attending the conference as more of a ‘student’, rather than an expert, led me to think about the ego. Whenever you find yourself in learning mode, one of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to check your ego at the door. This can be difficult. Our ego can seemingly act like a protective shell, where we are able to insulate ourselves from criticism. We have our magic shield there to keep insecurity or fear at bay.
Most of us assume that our talents are awesome, some of us believe that we are the best at what we do, and because of this it can be tricky to negotiate a healthy sense of confidence, with a false sense of arrogance. It isn’t always easy to feel safe while revealing our vulnerabilities.
Since I attended the conference as a guest, and was therefore in student mode, I had to keep my ego in check so that I could truly learn and experience all the conference had to offer. But, having 12 years of professional experience as a lash tech, as well as being an educator, there were moments that this all felt very humbling.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask
Sometimes the ego can hinder your ability to ask questions. You may think to yourself, "If I ask a question, others might think I’m not that smart, good, or talented enough." Trust me, many of your peers have the same fears. But, there is not enough room in our brain to be open to learning if we have that barrier. Taking a step back and getting into learning mode gives us the opportunity to become better at our skill, allows us for just a minute to not be the “expert”, and to ask questions that will only serve and enhance our work - not diminish it.Step out of your own way and ask the questions, put yourself out there, leave your ego at the door, and always take joy in the process and opportunity of learning. If you do this, your skill-set will flourish, and your clients will appreciate it.
Maryann Matykowski
Maryann has an accomplished, 30+ year background in the beauty industry. As a cosmetologist she opened her first salon in ’83. She has specialized as an educator since 2006. Maryann knows what it takes to create successful salon businesses and is here to share her experience with you.
Big industry trade shows, like the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conferences, Cosmoprof North America (CPNA), or IMATS can offer you a vast and wonderful wealth of information. They are well worth the opportunity, if you are open to being there, and are ready to learn!
Recently, I attended one andfound it to be an amazing resource, and very helpful. The presenters were from around the world, and each one had significant talents to showcase and share. They spoke about their personal expertise - ranging from chemistry to self care, and everything in between. There were volume specialists, brow specialists, and health and safety specialists.
