Podcast Summary: Beauty with a Twist – Episode: "Are You Devaluing Your Services by Offering Sales?"

Host: Dede
Guest: Monique Hadad
Release Date: November 29, 2024

Beauty With A Twist delves deep into the intricacies of the beauty and service industry, exploring topics ranging from entrepreneurship to handling client relationships. In this engaging episode, host Dede welcomes Monique Hadad, a seasoned body waxer specializing in intimate Brazilian waxing, brows, and lash lifts. Together, they navigate Monique's journey, business strategies, and insights into maintaining the value of beauty services amidst promotional offers.

1. Introduction to Monique Hadad

The episode kicks off with Dede introducing Monique Hadad, who clarifies her business identity and specialties.

• Monique Hadad [00:07]: "I legally go by Monique Hadad and specialize in Brazilian waxing, intimate waxing, brows, and lash lifts."

2. Transition from Personal Training to the Beauty Industry

Monique shares her career trajectory, highlighting her initial path in personal training before pivoting to the beauty sector.

• Monique [02:29]: "After high school, I pursued personal training while in college. However, I realized I wasn't passionate about it and sought a new direction."

3. Starting a Brazilian Waxing Business

Monique discusses her decision to enter the waxing industry, driven by encouragement from a colleague and the appeal of trade school.

• Monique [04:04]: "A lady who owned a lash bar encouraged me to explore the beauty industry, leading me to enroll in esthetician school."

4. Building Clientele: Free Services and Social Media

To establish her client base, Monique initially offered free Brazilian waxing services, leveraging her existing social media presence from personal training.

• Monique [09:48]: "I started by offering free Brazilians to build trust and gather content, eventually transitioning to charging for my services as I gained confidence."

5. Social Media Strategy: Instagram vs. TikTok

Monique emphasizes the importance of educational and relatable content on social media platforms to attract and retain clients.

• Monique [13:47]: "Educational content catapulted me in a different direction, showing my passion and expertise, which helped attract both clients and industry peers."

6. Pricing Strategies and Discounts

The conversation shifts to the controversial topic of offering discounts and promotions without devaluing services.

• Monique [31:08]: "I have a 'Wax Wednesday' where I offer $10 off Brazilians. I believe discounts are a nice gesture to give back to loyal clients without devaluing my services."

7. Booking Systems vs. Direct Messages (DMs)

Monique advocates for using booking systems over DMs to maintain organization and professionalism.

• Monique [40:11]: "Booking systems are more organized, tracking appointments and finances efficiently, unlike the chaotic nature of managing bookings through DMs."

8. Handling Different Client Personalities

Monique highlights the need to adapt to various client personalities to ensure a comfortable and professional service environment.

• Monique [22:05]: "As a business owner, you need to be a chameleon—adapting your interactions based on each client's preferences to provide a quality service."

9. Work-Life Balance and Mental Health

Both Dede and Monique discuss the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially when building a business from the ground up.

• Monique [17:37]: "I used to work six days a week, which was mentally exhausting. Now, I prioritize a balanced schedule to protect my mental health and maintain productivity."

10. Collaborations and Industry Peers

Monique acknowledges the influence of industry leaders like Kimberly and Lady Pang, who inspired her content creation and business strategies.

• Monique [50:02]: "Kimberly inspired me to focus on Brazilian waxing and create content that showcases my expertise and passion for the field."

11. Social Media Influence and Real-Life Interactions

The duo explores the disparity between social media personas and real-life interactions, stressing the importance of authenticity.

• Dede [55:08]: "I met someone who was my idol on social media, and it was heartbreaking to realize they weren't as portrayed online."

12. Tips for Aspiring Estheticians

Monique offers valuable advice for newcomers to the beauty industry, emphasizing the importance of hustle in the beginning and maintaining quality.

• Monique [24:01]: "In the beginning, hustle is essential. Working long hours and taking numerous clients helps build a steady clientele for long-term success."

13. Final Advice and Closing Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Monique shares her philosophy on fitness and self-care as crucial elements for personal and professional growth.

• Monique [62:09]: "Move your body and nourish yourself. Whether it's yoga, dancing, or working out, staying active enhances your mental well-being and overall quality of life."

Notable Quotes:

• Monique Hadad [02:29]: "I didn't see myself in the fitness space anymore, so I explored the beauty industry as a new direction."

• Dede [17:37]: "Balancing work and personal life is crucial to protect your mental health and maintain productivity."

• Monique Hadad [31:08]: "Offering discounts is a way to appreciate my loyal clients without devaluing my services."

• Monique Hadad [22:05]: "Adapting to each client's personality ensures they feel comfortable and valued during their service."

• Monique Hadad [62:09]: "Move your body and nourish yourself. It adds up to a lot over time and keeps you grounded."

This episode of Beauty with a Twist offers a comprehensive look into Monique Hadad's professional journey, her strategic approaches to building a successful waxing business, and the balance required to thrive both personally and professionally in the beauty industry. Listeners gain valuable insights into effective marketing, client management, and the importance of maintaining the quality and integrity of beauty services amidst promotional strategies.