
Loading summary
Casey Boone
Welcome to another episode of Skin and the City. I'm your host, anesthetician, Casey Boone. I'm sitting here with my healing frequencies on my coconut Living Culture yogurt. A little bit of chai tea. If you haven't listened before, welcome. If you have, welcome back. Today I am sharing a really cool conversation that I had with Derek Davenport. I met him last year at a cosmetic summit, and then we just spoke at another cosmetic summit up in the Bay Area just next to San Francisco about a week ago. I'm finally recovered from, like, my own summit that I hosted in downtown la and then I flew to San Francisco for the cosmetic summit. And I'm excited for you to hear this conversation that we have today because both Derek and I hopefully are able to share that, or at least what I'm getting from this is bigger isn't always better. I owned a large spa with employees and renters, and Derek actually at one point had two different locations. And I think he said 35 employees, which that's a lot of people. And over the years, we've both decided to basically go back solo and downgrade so that we have more time for ourselves, more time for our family, more time for our life. Not saying that owning a business or having a big spa, if that's your dream, go for it. But, you know, as I've been talking about a lot, don't believe everything you read or watch or see on the Internet. It's not always as glamorous as it is being shown. The beauty industry can be beautiful, and helping people is such a beautiful thing. But there is another side to it, which is, like, over consumption. And it can feel very overwhelming for us estheticians. And I just want to know that you are not alone. I send you love. I know Derek sends you love as well. Touch some grass, breathe some air, do some yoga, try some breath, work. Do a sound bath. Just do something that makes you feel good today. And I hope you enjoy this conversation that Derek and I have. The holidays are just around the corner, and you know, that means your treatment room is going to be busy. So you want to make sure that you have the best equipment so you can make the most money and take care of your clients. Check out spa and equipment.com for all your equipment needs, including steamers, electric beds, and I'm really obsessed with their new LED panel. Again, go to spa and equipment.com and use code Casey K A S E Y for additional discount on your order. Okay. We're sitting in my hotel room with a beautiful View. Actually, I don't even know what. Do you know what we're looking at?
Derek Davenport
No.
Casey Boone
We're looking at some kind of body of water.
Derek Davenport
I called it Aqua park earlier.
Casey Boone
It looks like Aqua Park. We're, like, in San Francisco, but, like, outside of the city. And it's beautiful.
Derek Davenport
It's so pretty.
Casey Boone
It's so pretty. So I'm here with Derek, and Derek and I met. Did we meet? Last year at the cosmetic summit?
Derek Davenport
In person, finally.
Casey Boone
In person, yes. Like, we've talked on the Internet, like so many of us estheticians do. And then we finally met in person last year at the cosmetic summit. And now we are here again for this next cosmetic summit. I'm excited to have you here.
Derek Davenport
Me too.
Casey Boone
Before we started recording, I was telling you that I pulled an oracle card for you because I was like, I feel like this is your vibe. So it's a goddess guidance oracle card. Okay. And you got. How do you think you say that? Because I don't pronounce names well.
Derek Davenport
It almost looks like A and E. Right? Because anytime I think the E should be silent, it usually is not.
Casey Boone
Okay, great. I'm like, I can't barely say my own name so let you say it. So it says, take a leap of faith. Take a risk. Put your heart's true desire into action. And then here's her message. Procrastinating about your dreams won't make them go away. Neither will it make them happen. Indecision is the death of the soul's burning passion to improve, grow, and learn. Don't worry about making a wrong decision. Instead, worry about making no decision at all. Then take time to pray, meditate, investigate, research, or go on nature walks and make your decision. So let's see. Various meanings. Your dreams will come true. Your chosen path is the right one for you. Heaven supports you fully on your mission. Your material needs will be taken care of. Take action steps towards your realization of your dream. Break your dream into achievable baby steps so that's easier for you to start and keep going. So any of that resonate with all of it?
Derek Davenport
Of course.
Casey Boone
I do feel like. I don't know, I'm getting like. Have you been in, like, an indecisive place?
Derek Davenport
Yes. Okay, well, I'm in what I call my calm era.
Casey Boone
You're in your calm era?
Derek Davenport
Yeah. Okay, so it's like, I don't want to make decisions.
Casey Boone
I like, feel that, like, on such a deep level. And I'm excited to talk with you today because I'm like, you Are you were a spa owner, now you went back to being solo? I did the same thing. And I feel like being a spa owner and, like, managing people, you're, like, running on adrenaline, and now it's like just you again, and you're like, ah, like, I can breathe and I don't have all these other people to manage. But with that, are you feeling like, obviously, like, you're a creative person and you feel like you have other creative ventures that you want to do and you're not sure where to start type thing?
Derek Davenport
Well, I have, like, directions that I want to go that kind of, like, put into motion, but also, I don't want to rush anything.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Because some of the projects and stuff that I want to do, they require me to be a lot more vulnerable. And vulnerability is something that I've always struggled with. And so it's like, now trying to work through putting myself in vulnerable situations to build the confidence for what's to come.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
Because, you know, from being out in the public, it's like, sometimes it's so great because you just get those dopamine hits.
Casey Boone
Totally.
Derek Davenport
Like, and the comments and the shares.
Casey Boone
Yes.
Derek Davenport
And it's like, no one's liking my stuff. No one's sharing it. Like, what. What is going on?
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
It's just. Yeah. Again, back in my calm era, it's like, I don't want to make decisions, but I need to.
Casey Boone
But also, like, maybe lean into the calm era, and then, like, the answers will just come to you. Right.
Derek Davenport
And, you know, it's. You know, when you're a spa owner, you're so busy, and there's. There's so many things that take your time, that when you. When you don't have that anymore, you're. You're kind of in this space. Like, this happened to me a few weeks ago is I was sitting at home, and it was like, my husband was doing his things, my kids were doing their things, and I'm like, what should I be doing? Like, I need some hobby. Like, I need something to do now. Because my time used to be so spent on the phone or, you know, coming up with new protocols, whatever it might be. And it's like, now we need to find that. We have to kind of find us again.
Casey Boone
Totally.
Derek Davenport
Like, I've been in this really, like, reself discovery phase the last, like, six months where I'm like, what do I want out of life? Like, what am I trying to get? What is this solo journey gonna look like?
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Because now it's just me Right.
Casey Boone
But that's, like, exciting. It is. And that you have, like, the free time to, like, do something that, like, you just want to do because, like, you enjoy it.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Like, what a concept.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. And I'm like, I'm a good employee, you know, I don't have to worry about good employees, really. I know I can be a good employee for my own business.
Casey Boone
Yes. Yes.
Derek Davenport
I show up on time. Like, I don't call out, like, I'm the best employee my business.
Casey Boone
Right. So I feel that on a deep level. Okay. I have more questions about that. But before we, like, dive right in, can you share with people, like, how long you've been an esthetician, where you live? Like, all the. Just, like, the basics.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. So I was in. I've been in the beauty space for about 14 years. Licensed as an esthetician nine and a half. And just. I do personal training a little bit here and there. I got that to tie into aesthetics.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Five kids, husband of 14 years.
Casey Boone
That's a lot of kids.
Derek Davenport
Thirteen chickens, two dogs. Like, I can keep going, but, yeah, just like a little homestead back in Kansas.
Casey Boone
I love that. Yeah. Amazing. And so you take me through, like, a little bit of your career, like, as an esthetician. Has it always been in Kansas?
Derek Davenport
Well, I started in Texas.
Casey Boone
You started in Texas?
Derek Davenport
And I was running a spa down there.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
Went to school.
Casey Boone
Okay. Like, managing.
Derek Davenport
Yeah, managing.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. And then we decided to move back to Kansas to be closer to family and start a family, so.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
When I went back, I worked for Massage Envy for a while. I was an area development manager for them. And then. Then I slowly started taking clients in my free time.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
And then I worked for a med spa at the same time, like, two times a week. So kind of did a little bit of everything at once. And then I just got so sick of the corporate world. I was in corporate sales, in beauty sales, since I was, gosh, like, 20 years old. And I just got so tired of watching service providers, like, be beat up.
Casey Boone
You know, I do.
Derek Davenport
When the owner is not a service provider, you just. You see a different level of care.
Casey Boone
You do.
Derek Davenport
So anyway, for me, it was time.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
You know what? I'm. I'm growing these clinics. I'm making these, you know, this company, tons of money. It's just like. But my happiness isn't there.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
I want to be with clients full time.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
And so we took the leap of faith and amazing. Went off on my own.
Casey Boone
Okay. And you went. Did you go solo first and then like, start to, like, slowly, like, grow.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. When I left massage and V, I. So I started my solo practice, and then I also started teaching at one of our local schools.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
For about a semester.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
Semester. I realized I just, again, full time is where my calling is. So I needed to go full force into that.
Casey Boone
So you've really had, like, a little bit of, like, sprinkling of experience and everything. Like, you taught a little bit. Manage med spas, regular spa. So, I mean, it's not like you have the credentials to open a spa. Right. And you have the. All the experience and the knowledge, and you wanted to, like, do better than these, like, big corporate places. But now you're back to solo. So, like, take me through. I mean, I know it's like a whole, like, long story and you've shared with me, like, off the podcast, but just for everyone else so they can understand. Can you share? Like, did you have employees? Did you have renters? How long were you doing it? And then why did you decide to finally go solo again?
Derek Davenport
Well, 2018 is when I started to bring on commission employees. And then we just. I grew really fast in my city. I was very active on socials. No one else was. You know, again, this was back in 2017, 2018. I mean, I was doing lives. I was just doing stuff constantly. And I really grew a big reputation for my brand.
Casey Boone
It's amazing.
Derek Davenport
And then we started bringing on more, and then I dipped into renters for a hair salon, so we really were full service. I even had a coffee bar built in, so we did a little bit of everything. I had a doctor on site, so we did medical as well. But, you know, my philosophy was to blend holistic with medical. But I had a. I had. I think when I closed or at one point, I had 30. I want to say about 35. Five employees. That's a lot of people between two locations. And yeah, my husband came on board to work for the brand because I needed help.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Because I was. I'm still the bread, and I was still the bread and butter. Like, I was the one that was busy.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Had the clientele, like.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
Couldn't come off. So anyway, yeah, we just reached a point where I was just, like, we were just spread thin. Our kids weren't getting our time and attention. I was worn out all the time. Like, I couldn't be a good dad. I couldn't be a good husband.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
I couldn't be a good partner. And so that's when we decided to go back to one location.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
And then.
Casey Boone
Okay, so first you went down to one location.
Derek Davenport
Okay, to one.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
And then a few months after that, I met with my business attorney and I was just like, here's everything. Tell me what I need to do because it's not working and I'm not happy.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
And my business attorney looked over everything and was just like, look, you're losing a third or more of your income.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
She's like, take all this stuff out and being on your own. Look at what more you can do for your family.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
And so I was like, you know, it took me a day, but I was like, okay. She was like, you know, you need to close it all and go solo.
Casey Boone
Wow.
Derek Davenport
And so I did.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
So I gave, I gave the staff a little over a month's notice. Actually about a month and a half, two months, just to give everyone plenty of time.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
Figure out what they wanted to do next. And then, yeah, January 1st of this year rolled around and I was on my own.
Casey Boone
So that must have been like, hard to make that decision. Right. I mean, not only like a little bit of like a blow to your ego, but also like you had employed all these people. Right. You probably feel like maybe you're letting them down. I mean, just from my own experience, like I've had, I had to go through very similar things and it's hard.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. I had a business coach early on told me that no one's ever going to love your business as much as you will.
Casey Boone
Yeah. And it's true.
Derek Davenport
And I would always try to prove her wrong and be like, oh my gosh, like, this person loves the brand. They're doing so good. They're living and breathing it, but it's like one small little thing.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
It was just this total blow up. And you know, the way, just the way we are these days, it's like we have a bad experience or something goes wrong. It's like we blasted on socials and I was tired of that too. I mean, my story, you know, they say what your side of the story doesn't always have to be shared.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
And there are so many times, like, you just get. I would get drug across social media and I'm like, like, I want to share my side, but what's it going to do at the end of the day?
Casey Boone
Nothing. Then you're just adding fuel to the fire. I also feel that there's been times where I've just like kept my mouth shut and my head down and. Yeah, you just move on.
Derek Davenport
You have to. And it's but it's so hard.
Casey Boone
It's so hard.
Derek Davenport
Ego piece. And, yeah, you know, when it came to closing, you had said, you know, I took a blow to my ego. And it was actually my ego that kept me open as long as I did. Because looking back, totally over it two years ago.
Casey Boone
Totally.
Derek Davenport
I was ready to go on my own two years ago, but I was like, no, I'm going to grow. I went through the Goldman Sachs program.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
And I put so much work into it that I'm like, I have to do this. I did this program.
Casey Boone
Right. Like, I put all this time and energy and money, and it's taking me away from my kids and my family. I have to keep going. But, yeah, but truthfully, I was over.
Derek Davenport
It a long time ago.
Casey Boone
Right. But it sounds like, you know, divine timing. Like, this was the right time in the right year. So going through all of that, like, how are you now? How is it going solo? Like, how are you feeling?
Derek Davenport
Yeah, it's. It's different.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
You know, there are lonely days, you know, when it's just you by yourself. I think we all go through that where it's like, man, I kind of wish we had someone else here. And I. I am bringing a girl on that used to work for me in a couple of weeks.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
Because I have four treatment rooms. Three. And they're just not getting used. And I'm like, they can be getting used. Like, I'll be okay. Totally. But, you know, it just is. Can be lonely.
Casey Boone
It is. I feel like it's not actually talked about enough. And I'd love to talk about it. Like, it can feel. I mean, I think that's why, like, social media for us, especially as for estheticians in the beauty industry, like, it's so big, right? Or, like, why it's so nice to, like, have a podcast to, like, listen to. And I think we're also, like, eager for community because we really are in, like, a dark room all day with just, like, a few clients. And as glamorous as people make it look on the Internet, like, it can be hard. I remember sitting in my treatment room being like, I want to, like, talk to somebody. I want to be, like, social. Like, I'd see, like, I worked in a hair salon. I'd see all the hairstylists, like, being social. And I was like, I had fomo. Like, can I come hang out? Do you have anything that you feel like, helped you not feel so lonely? Or do you feel like you're still, like, navigating it? Because this Is like, such a new thing for you.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. Still navigating it. You know, I have to remember we're all put in the places we're supposed to be for a reason. So I think this was a really good time for me to take my career to the next level. There's so much teaching and so many things that I wanted to do that I just couldn't because I didn't have the time or the energy. And so, you know, I have to remember that I was put here in this place and time, like, for a reason. And this reason, maybe I don't know it all the way now. Like, I'll know it soon for sure.
Casey Boone
Well, and it sounds like you're on the right path, which is also what I want to talk to you because, like, we're here to. Or we're here today for the cosmetic summit tomorrow, and we met last year at the summit. And, like, you're such a great public speaker and you work as. What are they calling it now? Is it affiliate with cosmetics or now they calling us something else, like the cosmetics Collective. Collective. Thank you.
Derek Davenport
Advising.
Casey Boone
Yeah, we've.
Derek Davenport
You're one of the two that have probably been through, like, the most, like.
Casey Boone
Yeah, I'm like, call me whatever you want. I, like, use cosmetics, and I've worked with them for a really long time, and you have as well. How long have you been using them?
Derek Davenport
Five years.
Casey Boone
Okay. Amazing. And so, like, that's, like, a separate opportunity that, like, you've had. Did they reach out to you?
Derek Davenport
Initially, it was through. I'm trying to think my rep at the time really wanted me to start to do more.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
But it wasn't until after Covid, because I partnered really close to the brand. We did a really cool, like, bingo event where we had people sign up all over the country.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
We hosted this really fun bingo. And so that's really when my partnership, like, really grew with cosmetics through that.
Casey Boone
Okay, amazing. And then you've been working with them, obviously, ever since you're still using them in the treatment room. Right. And then tomorrow you're speaking on something new that you're doing. Right.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. So I'm going to be teaching, mastering your consultation and improving your client retention through just your consultation. I think that's something that is not talked about enough.
Casey Boone
I agree.
Derek Davenport
Enough.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
So. And when I change the psychology of it a little bit, people are like, oh, my consultation is the most important, if not the most important part of my treatment. Besides the treatment itself, I mean.
Casey Boone
Yeah, of course the treatment itself is important. But I think the consultation is like, it's like when you're like, first getting to know each other. Right. Like, I always tell estheticians, I'm like, you are building a relationship with this person.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Right. And so many people are like, so distracted. Like, I don't have enough clients, but I'm like, what about the people that are literally in your bed?
Derek Davenport
Yeah, I think we miss. You know, social media still is not the biggest driver of new customer acquisition. It's still word of mouth.
Casey Boone
And I totally.
Derek Davenport
People forget that.
Casey Boone
I know.
Derek Davenport
I tell people all the time, like, ask your clients for business. Tell them, hey, I'm opening up four more spots. Do you have any friends or family? And most of my clients like, oh, actually, yeah, like, and you know, when you're a busy practitioner, your clients know that you're busy.
Casey Boone
Yes.
Derek Davenport
And a lot of times they won't refer because they don't want to lose their spot with you. Totally mine say that all the time. They're like, oh, we refer you more people, but we don't want to lose our time. I'm like, we'll just pre book for.
Casey Boone
The year and we'll be, yeah, yeah, yeah. You're like, I got you. But that's just like having that, like, communication with your clients. And like, they trust you. They know, like, you're not going to give away their spot. So when is this coming out? Or like, when are you putting all of this, like, into action?
Derek Davenport
Yeah. So this is actually. It's a. It's a pretty nervous summit for me. Usually I do pretty well, but my business coach is actually here. She's teaching on confidence in social media.
Casey Boone
Amazing.
Derek Davenport
And so I started working with her back and she's been a client of mine since 2000, I think. 18, 17. Okay. But then I started working with her as my business coach. I want to say in April or maybe.
Casey Boone
Nice.
Derek Davenport
And that's what we really focused on was the confidence in social media, because I was over it. I just was lost. I like to consider myself a pretty outgoing person, but I just couldn't find, like, that click with social media. So we worked on a project. But anyway, she is here and is going to be watching my presentation. This is the first time that I've actually, like, compiled it and taught it in a big group setting. I used to teach us to my training, to my internships or my interns and my staff.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
So I'm used to teaching it. It's not new material. It's all better organized and in a PowerPoint friendly.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
So, yeah, we'll see how it goes.
Casey Boone
I'm sure it'll be great.
Derek Davenport
But the hope is, is once we just had our website rebuilt, but my hope is we'll take this tomorrow, fix whatever we need to tweak with and start recording and hopefully have it out. I would like to have it out by November because. Because of what I teach will accelerate your retail sales and we know holiday. Perfect for time.
Casey Boone
Yeah, yeah.
Derek Davenport
Like to get it out for estheticians before then.
Casey Boone
Amazing. And this is something that estheticians are going to be able to like, purchase. Okay.
Derek Davenport
Y.
Casey Boone
And then it'll have like a video. It's coming with.
Derek Davenport
It'll come with videos. My PowerPoint.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
It also comes with my. You'll get the unbranded materials that I use, like my consultation form and my post. Post chat and my postcards.
Casey Boone
Love.
Derek Davenport
So, like, all of that is built in.
Casey Boone
Amazing. So yeah, I did that for a while too because I was like, I thought it was like, so important. But then, like, it's like, you know, my energy is like spread in like 10 different places. So I'm excited that, like, you're putting this out in the world. I think it's, like, really important. And like you said, it's like we're not taught it and we're not talking about it enough. And word of mouth really is still the best way, in my opinion. Sounds like yours too, is to, like, build your clientele. Like, social media is, like, great for like, a lot of different things and it can put your name or your business or your brand out there, like on a larger scale. But if you're looking for like, your, like, local people, if you like I always talk about, like, if you just get like that one girl.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
And she tells, like, her best friends, her mom, she's dragging in her husband, maybe she has like a teenager kid. Do you know what I mean? And that it just like spreads like in the best way. Like, that's how I got like, my best. Best clients that like, were with me for like, almost 15 years.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. Well, and I think it too will set, you know, it sets you apart as a professional when you do have, like these steps that I teach in the consultation to where clients, like, they recognize you as the professional. You're not just taking care of their skin. It's like you are the professional.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And I love that so, so much. That's something I've seen over my career, is my clients trust me so much.
Casey Boone
But that's amazing. And that's amazing. That's a consultation.
Derek Davenport
That connection piece. I mean, right. When a client leaves, I don't want them to think that that relationship ends.
Casey Boone
Right. It's like they can email you, they can call you, they can reach out if they have a question or concern. Xyz well, it sounds like not only have you been working like on your own confidence, but. But it sounds like you're infusing that like into this consultation to give other US additions their own confidence. Because I think that's what's happening is you're fresh out of school or like, maybe you haven't worked that long and you start to like overthink. Like, oh, but I don't really know what I'm doing. I don't really know what to say. And so this consultation is going to kind of give you like a format.
Derek Davenport
And maps it all out.
Casey Boone
I love that.
Derek Davenport
A to Z. There's no like, guesswork.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
And I loved it. I saw my estheticians that were just coming out of school, they grew so much just in their consultations. And it also wows the client. I mean, there's so many times where I've done a consultation and a client had been, you know, to other places and they were like, no one's ever taken the time.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
Like, ask me questions like, totally. And there's so many times where you walk in and it's even happened to me before where I've gone to like a high end spa experience, something new. And you know, the esthetician is like, okay, tell me about your skin. And it's like, I already filled out.
Casey Boone
A two page and they didn't read it.
Derek Davenport
Like, you should know from there.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And so that's part of what I teach is, you know, get rid of that because you already know. You need to dive into it deeper.
Casey Boone
Totally. I used to teach my estheticians that too because I'm like, if you're filling out the form and then you're not reading it, that's already showing that client that you don't actually care because you're not even willing to like, look at the consultation form. That's crazy to me. Like, I used to tell my sisters, like, see who's coming in? Have you seen them before? Are they someone new? You should, like, be prepared for the day. Right.
Derek Davenport
Well, and I think we have so many tools that we're not using. I mean, just digital consent forms.
Casey Boone
So many.
Derek Davenport
Yeah, everything should be digital. Everything. I mean, I know some of it comes with a higher cost.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
But it's like I, I would much more be willing to pay, pay for that higher price, convenience, service than doing it a different way.
Casey Boone
Well, I'm like, who's filing paper anymore?
Derek Davenport
And like, keep it for a year. And I already have a problem with hoarding things. Like, I don't need paperwork everywhere.
Casey Boone
Same, same. It just like gives me anxiety when like I have ADHD and I just have papers everywhere. And you know, my mom's telling me it's like, well, you have to save them for seven years. I'm like, you don't have to do that anymore. Everything should just be digital. Save it on your laptop, save it on your iPad and you're good to go for sure.
Derek Davenport
And then once it's. With it being digital, you can access it before they come in.
Casey Boone
Yes.
Derek Davenport
So it's like a day or two before when you're preparing, it's like you already know that client.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
So they're not a new person.
Casey Boone
Totally unquote. Yes.
Derek Davenport
You can walk into it being, you.
Casey Boone
Know, you know who they are and you remember a few things. Yeah. And you've like, you've done your homework so you're ready for them that day. Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And they just, they can tell.
Casey Boone
Of course they can tell.
Derek Davenport
Well, and on the business side, you know, I'm not one to like cattle herd clients through the door.
Casey Boone
Yeah, yeah.
Derek Davenport
But if you think about it, that client's taking probably 15 minutes to fill out that paper form. That's 15 minutes. You could have their hands, your hands on them.
Casey Boone
Yeah. Like so you're. So obviously we don't want to give everything away, but so one of the tips is like to pre fill. Have them pre fill it out.
Derek Davenport
Yep. I teach how to, how to pre fill out your form.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
Have everything nice and ready.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
So you just look so professional and.
Casey Boone
Put together when the client sets up. Yes. The pre filled out form or like all the forms that you're going to be sharing are these like universal forms or they can. Okay. Universal.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
So whatever booking system or whatever system they're using, they can put these, you.
Derek Davenport
Can upload it in it, you can build your own forms, most of them. Or we'll offer the paper form. So with that one, it's paper. I don't have a problem with doing that.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Consultation on paper.
Casey Boone
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Derek Davenport
With my staff. Because I, you know, keep it.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
You need it for later records, which I talk about in the course. But also. Yeah. So you can have it on rippable, you know, a notepad essential.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And do it that Way amazing. You can build it into your.
Casey Boone
I love kind of like the build it out option where you have it laid out and then they can just input it into, like, whatever system they're using that actually makes the most sense. Because that's, like, I was coming across issues when I had a consultation from people like, well, I want it to be digital, and then, you know, so I love that. It's just like you kind of build your own, but follow your guidelines.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. It's so nice. And I use a. I use Boulevard for my booking system.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Again, higher end.
Casey Boone
Yes.
Derek Davenport
Has everything that we need. It's.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Boulevard's great marketing. Just everything is so convenient. We've had them for four years, almost five years.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
And it's just been perfect.
Casey Boone
What did you use before Boulevard?
Derek Davenport
What did. Square.
Casey Boone
Square.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
Square. Square is good on the payroll side.
Casey Boone
But, yeah, I think square. And tell me if you think differently. But I think square is good to start, especially when you're just like, new esthetician. Because it's free.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Yeah. And then eventually you can upgrade.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
But Boulevards, like, Boulevard's like the Next.
Derek Davenport
Step up 100 Boulevard, because we do injectables. We have forms where we can like, document on there. It's much easier. So that's really why we kept Boulevard. Right. But it is. The convenience piece is big, but, you know, as a solo esthetician, it is a higher cost. But, yeah, I'm willing to. I was willing to keep that cost because of all the convenience.
Casey Boone
It's nice.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Yeah. I used it for, like, a second back in the day before I let go of my spot during COVID But it's a great system because I know people are always curious. I know, like, Vergaro also people, like, big fans of.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. Either way, it's a pain to build out a new.
Casey Boone
Yeah. End of story. It's just a. No, it's just annoying and it's a pain. And if you. Especially if you have to transfer, that's more of a pain. Yeah. So try and, like, do your research before you, like, fully commit. But just know it's kind of annoying, and it's like one of those business things that no one talks about and we all have to do.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Okay. Well, amazing. I'm excited for you. It sounds like it's going to be coming out soon. You have to, like, keep me updated so we can, like, share with everybody.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. How's your pivot been with why you think of this? But I know you're back in the treatment room. And you have a beautiful new spa.
Casey Boone
Yeah. It's good.
Derek Davenport
So great.
Casey Boone
It's good. It's like, you know, I had a space. I've had many spaces, and I moved during COVID like, three different times, all within, like, the same building. And then it was just, like, one of those things where I'm like, it's just me. My sister has a baby now, another baby on the way, and I'm like, why am I spending, like, all of this, like, rent, you know, just for me? And so I downsized, and I'm just seeing, like, a few people, like, very, very few. But I'm like, I'm. I'm happy.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
I feel like I was, like, kind of in your place, like, maybe like, a year ago, where just like, I downsize a lot of things, and I'm like, should I, like, go take a ceramics class? Do you know what I mean? Like, I'm like, what do I want to do? And, like, so I've just been, like, exploring. Exploring all those things, and then I've really made my life a priority first, and then I find ways where I can, like, fill in work.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
And that's, like, a really amazing, beautiful thing.
Derek Davenport
So nice.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
I mean, take your time with your clients, I'm sure.
Casey Boone
And, yeah, I'm like, two hour appointments, but I'm literally only seeing a couple people a month.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Just for funsies.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
You know, like, I'm. I'm grateful. Like, that's not, like, how I make my money anymore. I just do because I love it.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Like, I just want to, like, help people and touch people's faces and, like, make people feel good, you know? That's also, like, why I'm doing the podcast too, because, like, I just love people and I want to talk to people. I think that's, like, why we become estheticians. But again, you know, I. I feel like I keep talking about this with everybody who comes on the podcast, but I think it's important is just that social media doesn't talk about that.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Like, the. It's all about, like, the relationships. Like, it's not about. I mean, look, like, the. Your cute room with, like, the decor and, like, all that stuff is so great. And, like, if you want to do a TikTok dance, like, go for it. Like, I will be your number one fan. I'll do the dance with you. But, like, we forget, like, why did you actually, like, get into this? Like, why are we actually doing it? You know? Do you. Do you have, like, something like, was there something specific that drew you to being an esthetician? Like, did you have that, like, moment?
Derek Davenport
Yeah. I was actually just sharing this with another esthetician today. So I went from the tanning industry.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
So I always joke that I used to sell skin cancer. And I moved. I left California, left that job, and I moved to Texas. And my friend, she was working for a spa.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
And I had all this management experience in sales, and she was like, you know, why don't you try and go into, like, the spa industry? She's like, it's still. There's some still sales there, and it's pretty chill. And so I found a spa and got the job and started managing. And my first project was a redo the whole facial program.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
They wanted me to, like, bring in new lines and just really revamp and get the skincare side busy.
Casey Boone
Well, that's cool.
Derek Davenport
I love products. Like, I love learning about the tanning lotions and what was in there and everything. And so I started reaching out to brands and bringing them in, and it was one of those sessions. I also love science and chemistry. And so there was a trainer one day that was just like, oh, how long have you been an esthetician? Like, you seem to know quite a bit. And I was like, actually, I'm not. And she's like, well, you should go to school.
Casey Boone
Like, you'd be really good, right? You're like, you just haven't enrolled the.
Derek Davenport
Next month, really toward a school two days later, and then enrolled. And the spa actually switched their schedule and opened up two extra days. I believe it was two extra days, so I could still manage full time and go to school.
Casey Boone
That's amazing.
Derek Davenport
So that was.
Casey Boone
That's really cool.
Derek Davenport
And I just. I felt. I mean, something about what we do is just so amazing because we change people's lives on so many different levels. Like, I've got the skin.
Casey Boone
Totally.
Derek Davenport
We can take care of the skin.
Casey Boone
Yes.
Derek Davenport
We know that. Like, the back of our hands.
Casey Boone
Yes.
Derek Davenport
It's more than that.
Casey Boone
Like, it's so much more. Like, it starts with the skin, but it's. I feel the same way. Like, it's so much, like, deeper, and I don't know, doing it for so many years, it's like, it's connected. Like, I don't know my heart and, like, just. It's like, opened up my mind to, like, so many different things that, like, healed me by taking care of these other people. Right. It's so much deeper than just, like, a hyaluronic acid for sure.
Derek Davenport
Well. And there's just so much out. I mean, our industry is overwhelming. I mean, it's crazy. I see new products come out and it's just not being. It's not that innovative anymore.
Casey Boone
I know. Like, no, it's. It.
Derek Davenport
We hit this loop where it's just like, everyone is coming out with their own product.
Casey Boone
I know.
Derek Davenport
Like, save the money and try to come out with, like, a staple hard hitter.
Casey Boone
Yeah, I agree. I want to buy totally. Yes. Something, like, different. Something like, where's the white space? Space. Not just, like, making another cleanser because you want to put your name on it. Which I don't ever want to discourage people from, like, making their own products, but, like, really, like, think about it. Like, do you have intention behind it? And I think that's really what it is. Because, like, you said, like, it is. It is very saturated and it is very overwhelming. And there's no way we're all gonna know every single line or every single ingredient.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Like, it's just not possible. But, like, with that being said, like, do you have any tips for, you know, I don't know. I think whether you're new or an older esthetician, like, I think there's this thing that, like, we're expected to, like, know everything. Any tips for, like, to help people not feel like they need to know everything?
Derek Davenport
You're never going to know everything. I mean, you can try, but, I mean, you're just not. Everything changes all the time.
Casey Boone
All the time. Like, I can't. I can't keep up.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
I think it comes back to what we were talking before, which is confidence. Okay, so what. What shifted for you? Like, what. Is there one thing that, like, has, like, helped you rebuild your confidence with social media?
Derek Davenport
Yeah. So we did. I had this idea for. It was called the ABC of Aesthetics. And we were going to go through each letter and introduce a topic that I felt a quality, high value esthetician should know.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
And it was information that we just weren't seeing anymore. Like, I just wasn't seeing any of it on. On Instagram or.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
On any platform. And so for me, what shifted was when I was studying for each one.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
Because I had to look stuff up. I had to get good sources for some stuff. Like, I wanted to make sure there was good, meaty information in there.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Within a minute and a half.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
It's kind of hard to do.
Casey Boone
It is.
Derek Davenport
And so when I was going through all this information, it's like, I knew all of this, but it's Stuff that, like, I had forgotten to talk to my clients about, you know, like lipids or peptides. It's like we have these conversations, but I forget sometimes, and I think we're all guilty of this. When we get in our comfort zone.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
You know, we fall back a little bit from that consistent education piece.
Casey Boone
Yeah. Or like, you just like, assume you've said it because you. It's in. It's been in your brain for so long. You know what I mean? Like, oh, I thought that was just like standard knowledge and it's not right.
Derek Davenport
And it's like. But then you're like, I've had that locked away. Why have I not been using it? So I think that confidence piece for me was that I know more than I think I know.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
When it comes to the industry. And I mean, the other piece was just getting feedback. I mean, I think you got, like, positive feedback from people, healthy feedback. Feedback was great. People were reaching out, that they loved it, that they were looking forward to next episodes.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And that, you know, that it helped them with their clients. And so that was a big confidence piece because, like, oh, I. I do have a voice and people I think are listening. People are listening.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And so we kind of switched my look or feel of my Instagram to be. We wanted to tackle both education. But my business coach and I have been together for a long time to where it's like, she says, you're like, you're funny. Like, you actually have a lot of funny stuff to say. Often. But when I get into, like, aesthetics.
Casey Boone
World, you're like, Derek, work mode.
Derek Davenport
So professional.
Casey Boone
Totally.
Derek Davenport
And like, so I'm in this phase right now of like, dropping my vulnerability, having more fun. Like dancing more on social.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
You know, just in just having fun. Because it's like social media is supposed to be.
Casey Boone
It's supposed to be fun.
Derek Davenport
So I'm like, screw it. Let's have some fun. Let's be wild.
Casey Boone
Yeah. And like, actually share your personality because that's what people are going to be drawn to.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
But it's hard to show your personality. It is. Especially when you're going through, like, some transitions as well. You're like, what is my personality?
Derek Davenport
You know, I mean, you do go through a point in life when you're doing deeper work. You have to re. Establish, like, who you are. I think that's a big piece this year has brought for me is I'm really trying to figure out who I am.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
You know, my husband the other day was like, you've just gotten so quiet. I'm just observing more. I used to be the talker. I want to be the watcher.
Casey Boone
Same and how special because I'm like, I've become like an observer. Not judging, just, like, observing, because I'm just like a curious person. I feel like I don't need to get my point across anymore. I want to hear what everybody else has to say.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
You know what I mean? And, like, what can I take from that? And I love that you were saying that like, you did research before every single post. Because I think that's like a good reminder that, like, again, we're not. We're like, we're human. We're not supposed to be an encyclopedia. And even though if you, you know that information, it's nice to get a refresher. It is like, I do it on my own products. Do you know what I mean? Like, tomorrow I'm speaking on, like, holistic modalities and I'm like, okay, I want to go over, like, all the ingredients and make sure that I, like, at least have like, a word for each ingredient or a couple of the ingredients, you know, just as like, reminder. But we're not supposed to, like, be an encyclopedia.
Derek Davenport
No.
Casey Boone
Nobody is.
Derek Davenport
I think when you think that way, you're also limiting yourself as well.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
I still use my, my product books. When I do recommendations, I still pull them out and I'm like, okay, let me make sure I'm not missing any. Totally selling point for my client.
Casey Boone
Totally. It's important.
Derek Davenport
And yeah, that's like cosmetics. I mean, I know most of it like the back of my hand after being with them, you know, for so long.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
But still, there's times when I miss pieces and of course. Oh, how did I not know that?
Casey Boone
Or like, you forget or there's like, there's only so much information we can, like, keep in our minds and, like, what we do is so detailed and complex.
Derek Davenport
It is.
Casey Boone
It's so detailed.
Derek Davenport
It is. And I'm excited that you and I, you know, we talked about a lot about, you know, this high value piece, because I feel like that's where we need to take ourselves.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
You know, we've kind of been going through the esthetician revolution where we're standing up for ourselves. We're telling, you know, brands what we.
Casey Boone
Want and what we need. Yes.
Derek Davenport
And if you're not going to work with us at that level.
Casey Boone
Totally.
Derek Davenport
You know, there are a lot of estheticians switching lines and everything.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
But, you know, we're also in that space of, like, it's so complex, complicated to do what we do, but it is. Value piece is like. It's like that clicking piece.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
You know, when you. When that high value switch clicks on.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
It totally changes, like, who you.
Casey Boone
Who you are, I guess, or totally.
Derek Davenport
View yourself, which portrays of, like, to your clients, like, how they see you, too.
Casey Boone
Yeah, that makes sense. Yeah, no, it totally makes sense. Yeah, it will. So I reached out to Derek originally because I was like, I knew he was going to be at the summit with cosmetics. And you did a meditation last year, and I loved it. And I've, like, been on my own journey with, like, meditation, breath work, yoga, all the things. All the things. Right. And so I reached out to you and I was like, hey, do you want to, like, do something together? I can bring my sound bowls. Like, I just put out my esthetician affirmations. And then you came with the high value esthetician, and we're gonna do some, like, eft tapping. And I was just like, I. I just. We work in the beauty industry, but it's also health and wellness. Like, we are here to take care of people, but it has to start with you.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Like, it has to start with you. And you don't have to meditate, you don't have to do breath work, you don't have to use crystals. But I think you need to find, like, whatever your thing is. And so if we 100% right. I'm like, we. Whether you like it or not, I believe, like, all estheticians are just, like, can be healers. Right. Because there's like a physical touch. And in a digital age where we're not seeing a lot of people, that touch means more than ever before.
Derek Davenport
And that touch. You know, I used to, when I would teach at classes, I would always ask the very first question I would ask is, you know, if you're a holistic, you know, raise your hand if you're a holistic provider and get a few hands.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And then I'd be like, all of you should raise your hands, because when you touch. Touch someone, that's an energy transfer, which is holistic medicine.
Casey Boone
Yes.
Derek Davenport
And so you have to be mindful of. And I think that's where a lot of our estheticians that are in that space, you know, that's where we build clientele quicker because we recognize that energy and that exchange of. That transfer of energy and that exchange.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And we've done the work.
Casey Boone
Yeah, yeah.
Derek Davenport
A lot of estheticians that are, you know, Kind of at this level, it's like you listen to their story and all the stuff that they've like gone through and made shifts and changes and like, you know, could have given up at any time.
Casey Boone
There has to be some kind of inner work.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
So that you can continue to like. Because your touch like that, like you said, that is an energy transfer. And it's funny because I literally wrote that down last night before I went to bed to talk about tomorrow. Just that, like, you, you need to be aware of the energy that you're giving and also, like, if you're receiving it from the other person or taking it on. And like, you really need to learn how to ground yourself because for so many years I didn't. And it made me physically and mentally sick to the point where, like, I'm still battling it. Like, I'm carrying it in my body still, and I'm working on ways to like release it, but it's a freaking journey.
Derek Davenport
It is.
Casey Boone
Yeah. And never stops. And.
Derek Davenport
No, it never stops.
Casey Boone
It doesn't. Like, okay, this is just to be.
Derek Davenport
Over it and then the trigger, like, you know, six months later and you're like, really?
Casey Boone
I know, Come on. I know. That was me over my vacation. I was like, oh, I am 12 years old again.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Yeah. It doesn't go away. But yeah, I think it's just. I just want to keep talking about that because I feel like there is a, there is a disconnect and I don't know what it is, but just remember that like, your touch is powerful and like what you're doing for these people is powerful and to acknowledge yourself and to acknowledge them.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
Right.
Derek Davenport
And just, you know, try to try to diverge away from the bright and shiny object syndrome, because at the end of the day, our hands are the best thing that we have.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
And tools are amazing, of course. Created some phenomenal tools that accelerate us in the treatment room.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
But I think sometimes, you know, these, these bigger machines and stuff, people lose focus.
Casey Boone
I. I don't forget that. Like, they're also selling you something. Exactly. Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
So you don't need the new shiny necessarily. Need the new shiny. 40,000, $50,000 machine. I'm sure it's fun to use.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
But is it going to make or break who's coming into your treatment room and the relationships that you're building?
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
No. Yeah. Yeah. So, well, thank you so much for coming on here and talking with me.
Derek Davenport
So great.
Casey Boone
So good. Can you tell everyone where to find you, like your website, Instagram, all that good stuff.
Derek Davenport
So my website is redafined aesthetics. So it's R e D a V F I N e D aesthetics. And then my Instagram is also at redefined aesthetics.
Casey Boone
Nice. Are you. Are you doing Tick Tock?
Derek Davenport
I am. You are slowly my next confidence piece.
Casey Boone
I'm not going to.
Derek Davenport
We're working on my Tik Tok, so.
Casey Boone
Okay.
Derek Davenport
Yeah.
Casey Boone
One thing at a time, right?
Derek Davenport
It has to be.
Casey Boone
Has to.
Derek Davenport
It has to be. When I was trying to do Instagram and Tik Tok, I'm like, I just.
Casey Boone
No, then you just have like a meltdown and then you don't post at all.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. Or it's like my Tik Tok doesn't get any attra any traction, but my Instagram does. So then I like, full focus on Instagram. But Tik Tok is my 2025 goal to, like, get in there.
Casey Boone
2025. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Derek Davenport
But I don't. Yeah, we'll see. I'm. I'm thinking that this is going to be a little bit more outspoken on Tick Tock, calling out, you know, a lot of discrepancies, because I don't think there is quite a big voice in our industry that is helping guide estheticians that, I mean, really are kind of, in a way, I guess I'll say, tend to get screwed over sometimes. Like.
Casey Boone
Yeah, you know, it's like we need.
Derek Davenport
We need more people calling these things out.
Casey Boone
Yeah.
Derek Davenport
Like, helping us as a whole.
Casey Boone
100%. Yeah. Not every offer is a good offer. I've talked about that before. Like, and it's like, I've said no to some, like, you know, dollar signs and yeah, it's hard. And then you think, oh, well, what if. And it be nice to have the extra money or will that make me seem more important? But if that's what you're thinking, then it's probably not exactly not the best thing. And like, you need to work on your confidence and not your ego.
Derek Davenport
Yeah. Yeah, for sure.
Casey Boone
Well, amazing. Thank you so much.
Derek Davenport
Yes, thank you.
Skin and the City Podcast by Kasey Boone Skincare™
Episode: From Spa Owner to Solo Esthetician + Consultation Forms with Derek Davenport
Release Date: October 16, 2024
In this insightful episode of Skin and the City, host Kasey Boone welcomes listeners to a meaningful conversation with Derek Davenport, a seasoned esthetician who has transitioned from owning multiple spa locations to embracing a solo practice. Kasey sets the tone by sharing her personal journey and the overarching theme of the episode: the realization that "bigger isn't always better" when it comes to running a spa business.
Notable Quote:
[00:00] Kasey Boone: "Bigger isn't always better. I owned a large spa with employees and renters, and Derek actually at one point had two different locations..."
Kasey and Derek delve into their shared experiences of scaling back their businesses to gain more personal time and improve work-life balance. Both speakers highlight the pressures and challenges that come with managing a large team and multiple locations.
Notable Quote:
[04:06] Derek Davenport: "Take a leap of faith. Take a risk. Put your heart's true desire into action."
The conversation emphasizes the importance of trusting one’s instincts over societal expectations, encouraging estheticians to prioritize their well-being over business expansion.
Derek shares his journey of transitioning from a corporate role at Massage Envy to running his own solo practice. He discusses the emotional and logistical hurdles of downsizing, including the impact on his family and employees.
Notable Quote:
[13:05] Derek Davenport: "You need to be with your family. It took me a day, but I was like, okay. She was like, you need to close it all and go solo."
The duo candidly talks about the loneliness that can accompany solo practice and the ongoing struggle to find community and support outside of a large business framework.
Notable Quote:
[15:24] Derek Davenport: "There are lonely days, you know, when it's just you by yourself."
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the pivotal role of consultations in building client relationships and improving retention. Derek introduces his upcoming course, "Mastering Your Consultation and Improving Your Client Retention", designed to help estheticians refine their consultation processes.
Notable Quote:
[19:00] Derek Davenport: "The consultation is the most important, if not the most important part of my treatment. Besides the treatment itself..."
Kasey and Derek emphasize that effective consultations are foundational to establishing trust and ensuring client satisfaction, which ultimately drives word-of-mouth referrals.
The conversation highlights the supremacy of word-of-mouth over social media in client acquisition. Both speakers advocate for fostering deep, meaningful connections with clients rather than solely relying on online presence.
Notable Quote:
[19:28] Derek Davenport: "Social media still is not the biggest driver of new customer acquisition. It's still word of mouth."
Kasey adds personal anecdotes about building long-term client relationships, reinforcing the idea that personalized care and genuine connections are invaluable in the esthetician industry.
Derek discusses his efforts to rebuild confidence in his social media presence, emphasizing authenticity and education over purely promotional content. He shares strategies for balancing professional expertise with personal personality to engage effectively with audiences.
Notable Quote:
[37:20] Derek Davenport: "I know more than I think I know when it comes to the industry."
Both Kasey and Derek stress that confidence stems from continuous learning and embracing one’s unique voice, which can significantly impact client trust and business growth.
The episode explores the holistic nature of esthetics, highlighting the role of estheticians as healers who facilitate energy transfer through touch. Kasey and Derek discuss the importance of self-care and grounding practices to maintain personal well-being while providing care to clients.
Notable Quote:
[43:07] Derek Davenport: "When you touch someone, that's an energy transfer, which is holistic medicine."
They advocate for incorporating mindfulness practices such as meditation, breath work, and yoga to enhance both personal health and professional effectiveness.
As the conversation wraps up, Kasey and Derek reaffirm their commitment to supporting fellow estheticians through shared experiences and educational resources. They encourage listeners to prioritize personal well-being, embrace authenticity, and continually seek growth within their practice.
Notable Quote:
[44:44] Derek Davenport: "Try to diverge away from the bright and shiny object syndrome, because at the end of the day, our hands are the best thing that we have."
Kasey invites listeners to stay connected and take advantage of Derek’s upcoming course, which promises to enhance consultation skills and client retention strategies.
Where to Find Derek Davenport:
Notable Quote:
[45:34] Derek Davenport: "I'm thinking that this is going to be a little bit more outspoken on TikTok, calling out a lot of discrepancies."
Personal Well-Being Over Business Scale: Both Kasey and Derek illustrate that prioritizing personal time and family can lead to a more fulfilling professional life, even if it means downsizing business operations.
Power of Consultations: Effective consultations are critical for building trust, ensuring client satisfaction, and enhancing retention, ultimately driving business growth through word-of-mouth.
Authentic Social Media Presence: Confidence in social media is built through continuous learning and authentic engagement, which can significantly impact client acquisition and retention.
Estheticians as Holistic Healers: Estheticians play a vital role in clients’ physical and emotional well-being, necessitating mindfulness and self-care practices to sustain personal and professional health.
Community and Support: Solo practitioners may experience loneliness, highlighting the need for community support systems and ongoing professional development.
This episode serves as a valuable resource for estheticians contemplating the balance between business growth and personal well-being. By sharing their journeys, Kasey Boone and Derek Davenport offer practical insights and encouragement for professionals navigating similar transitions.