This month, we had the pleasure of speaking with a hiring manager (and Skinworks alum) from NAILED! Salon & Boutique in Salt Lake City. Tessa interviewed with us about her industry experience, what it’s like at NAILED!, and gave us some tips on pursuing a job as an esthetician.

What It’s Like Working at NAILED!

We asked Tessa to tell us about the fun and spunky place she works.

“We are what I like to jokingly call an ‘esthetician salon’. We pride ourselves on our cleanliness and services, and we believe that is what brings people back. Price wise, we are between a high end spa and an ‘express spa’. A bit more high end without the high end price!”

Tessa also shared that NAILED! has been open for 13 years, and that they are looking to open a new location. There one and only current location is in downtown Salt Lake City in a revamped vintage house.

“We see about 2,000 women in and out of here every month!”

Tessa has a few responsibilities at NAILED! including working the front of the store that functions as a boutique. She also has the pleasure of being a part of HR. In her human resources position, Tessa is in charge of hiring and training new technicians.

“Right now, while we are going into our busy season, I have been recruiting. We hire estheticians, cosmetologists, and nail techs. I look at schools in the area so they can get to know us.”

So, why did Tessa choose to be a part of a boutique rather than pursuing another avenue?

“ I wanted to work with a company that was flourishing in the beauty industry in SLC.”

What About Skinworks?

“I graduated from and worked at Skinworks, so my heart really lives there.”

She shared with us what qualities she found intriguing about our school, and what potential students should look for in an esthetics school.

“Look for some place that lets you interact with clients. Learning should be well-done in all angles. Look for a variety of instructors that can give you good exposure. I feel as though Skinworks does that and is constantly striving to keep up with industry standards.”

We definitely try to give our students all that and more! Next, we asked her to share her opinion on hiring Skinworks graduates.

“I look for a go-getter, a self-motivator, and someone who is teachable. They should be open to learning and trying new things and giving and getting criticism. Another trait I look for in new hires is a strong sense of personability. People skills get you far in this industry.”

“I can always expect a well-rounded esthetician from Skinworks. At Skinworks, they don’t focus on one thing too much. They are also so confident. I’ve seen a lot of estheticians, and the Skinworks students always have this confidence.”

Tips and Tricks

As a master esthetician who has pursued a successful career in the industry, Tessa wanted to share some advice on interviewing for jobs and building a resume.

“Confidence is key! Go in with the mindset that you are necessary. Don’t be afraid to be who you are, and be open to new ideas. When building your resume, get things done. Don’t be afraid of some opportunities just because you’re afraid you might not like them. Go for it!”

We want to thank Tessa for taking time out of her day to speak with us. We love to see our alumni doing so well! If you’re interested in going after a career like Tessa, check out our programs!