Peek inside some cool-careers! Like what you see? Then follow their Career-Maps to help you discover your Dream-Job. Check out Ideas, Inspiration, Interview-Style and more! Find a career that suits… YOU.
She Plans Parties, Events & Celebrations! Sound like a cool career?
Jennifer Cleary's first job was bussing tables at a seafood restaurant in Wareham, MA. Now she's the Catering and Events Manager for a major Boston restaurant group. All day long she plans events, parties and celebrations for major companies like Google, Facebook and Microsoft. She also plans bridal showers, wedding rehe arsal dinners and birthday celebrations that are hosted at the restaurant.(continued below the video)
Check out Jennifer's 'Cool Career' video here or on our YouTube Channel.
Along the way she built-up her experience by working in restaurants as a hostess, waitress, bartender and restaurant manager.
Below she shares her Career Path and offers awesome tips on how YOU can start your #CoolCareer
Jennifer's Top Advice
Start working your way towards you 'Dream Career' NOW. Jennifer's first job in #TheBiz was bussing tables during the summer when she was in high-school. She also was a hostess, a waitress and a bartender. ALL of those jobs and experiences helped her succeed in her new career as an 'Event Planner".
Be open to new opportunities. Jennifer's friend needed help at the restaurant he worked at one night and she said "Sure!". That experience made her realize that she wanted to work in the restaurant industry.
Use online tools to their fullest. Jennifer made sure she had a great LinkedIn profile for potential employers to see.
Use Social Media to be the first to find out when jobs post. Jennifer followed Boston's major restaurant groups like "The Briar Group on Facebook (14 restaurants!). When she saw them post a job opening for 'Events Manager' she contacted them right away and after 2-3 interviews - she got the job!
Jennifer's Career Path
Start Jennifer is from Massachusetts - home to MANY seafood restaurants. During the summer she bussed tables for a local seafood restaurant in Wareham, MA. After the first night she walked away with a pocketful of cash and was hooked!
College Jennifer went to Newbury College in Brookline, MA. She wasn't sure what she was going to do there... Ultimately she graduated after 2 years with an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts. It has transferred very well for her in her career as an Event Planner.
#JustDoIt One night hanging out in the dorms... Her friend who worked at a local restaurant said he needed some help and asked if anyone could work the 'take-out' window? Jennifer said "Sure!". She had so much fun that night that she decided to make the 'Restaurant Industry' her career.
Top Tip: You never know when opportunity will arise. Be open to new adventures like Jennifer was and go for it! By her saying 'Yes' to helping her friend out that night - she found her path!
1st Job Jennifer's 1st "real job" after college was at 'The Rattlesnake Bar & Grill'. She was 21 years old. She was out to eat one night and decided to fill out an application! #WhyNot
Jennifer loved meeting new people and that every day was different! She loved the excitement and fast pace of the restaurant business!
2nd Job Jennifer's next job was with one of Boston's most famous restaurant groups: 'Legal Seafoods' - where she was a waitress.
Ambition Jennifer always strives for MORE in her work so she joined 'Legal Seafood's' "President's Advisory Council" (P.A.C.). They call you a 'P.A.C. Member'! The members of this group meet monthly with the President of Legal Seafoods and give him feedback. Among other things, they give the President feedback on what the customer's are saying... what they like and dislike.
Ambition On top of her waitressing duties - Jennifer was in charge of teaching the 'fish class' and the 'wine class' to new hires at the restaurant. A very prestigious role - as these are very important duties for new waiters and waitresses!
Travel Jennifer saved so much money that she decided to travel. She visited the U.K. and went to many places like Ireland. Fun Fact! Because she had this waitressing experience - she was able to get a job and worked at a pub in Ireland. A great life-experience for her!
3rd Job A great manager that Jennifer worked for put her in touch with 'Plaza 3' in Faneuil Hall. There she was hired as the "Bar Manager. This was a really big step in her career!
Jennifer really took advantage of her new job and worked hard to learn everything she could about the restaurant industry! She learned how to hire staff, file invoices and process inventory among many things. She wanted to learn all that she could about managing a restaurant
4th Job Jennifer's next job was at another famous Boston restaurant, the 'Globe Bar and Cafe' on Boylston. There she was Assistant General Manager to the owner AND she got to bartend 2 nights a week which let her continue to work on the service side of the job - the part she loves so much. Jennifer was working in the best of both worlds of the industry she loved - management and service.
It was Jennifer's customers who gave her the idea for her next career move - into Event Planning! You never know where you'll get inspiration - so always be listening and let people know that you need help!
The Search Jennifer was job-searching on CraigsList .org There she found an ad for a catering manager at The Harvard Club of Boston.
Just Try Jennifer had very little event planning experience - but she went for the interview anyway and stayed true to her personality and true to her career goals and the manager saw that. She was hired!
Promotion After a year Jennifer was promoted to 'Member Events Manager'. She was very excited to be working at a 5-Star Platinum Premiere Club! She worked with the provost of Harvard as well as judges, lawyers and doctors and they all listened to her! At first it was hard for her to believe...
Great Tip Jennifer succeeded in her new job because she just naturally treated all these people like they were someone sitting at her bar! She didn't get intimidated by them and kept confidence in herself.
Confidence With this new job, Jennifer's confidence grew, her resume grew and she was very very proud of herself for this accomplishment! She really learned the value of speaking well, sitting up straighter and being present - so important
Big Move After 8 years later she missed the social aspect of working in a restaurant and wondered how can she could combine the best of both worlds.
LinkedIn She ramped up her LinkedIn profile and used it to its full potential, she got clear on what she wanted to do, revisited her resume and really built it up.
Facebook Jennifer followed companies that she liked on Facebook. She watched their posts and events and one day a post came up from the Briar Restaurant Group saying they were looking for an event manager and to email a resume.
Interview 2 days later she went on an interview. It went great, she loved the vibe and was called in for a 2nd interview.
Success All of Jennifer's experience at different restaurants and The Harvard Club transferred well to this new position. Her hard work from her time bussing tables to waitressing to bartending really paid off... She was hired!
Jennifer is happy when she is making people happy!
Offer to volunteer to create event or help with them at your school, church or community organizations. Make sure and take photos of yourself at work and post to your social media. You never know who's watching...
Take an hour a day to keep up with 'The Biz'. It's FREE to read 'Entertaining & Events' magazines online or at the library. Start to learn the top event planner's names and companies in any city you live in. Reach out to them to see if they hire during the summer or accept interns.
Constantly update your resume with your new event-planning experience.
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is strong and that your resume is posted on it. Make sure and update it regularly.
Create a unique Instagram ___ where you will post only your Event Experience and work. (NOT your skateboard adventures... that's for your personal social media). Start hash tagging and tagging event companies so they will learn about you and your interests and take notice!
Just like Jennifer - FOLLOW your favorite restaurants and event companies on Facebook. Comment on their awesomeness and when you see a Job Posting - go for it or ask them about an internship! Here's the Briar-Group's Facebook page!
Work your way UP! Many great event planners, chefs and restaurant owners started at the bottom. Once you have a dishwasher job or start bussing tables - you are on the INSIDE. You'll be the first to know when the restaurant you work for needs new staff and you can talk to you manager about giving you a shot! Ask to fill-in or shadow a team member on your day off. #ImpressTheBoss !
"The people in the restaurant industry are the nicest people you'll ever meet... the trendiest people you'll ever meet, most personable you'll ever meet - those are her people! Jennifer Cleary
"You can really find a job anywhere - once you have that experience in the 'Service Industry'. Jennifer Cleary
Good Luck!
Is there a 'Cool Career' you'd like us to profile? Email us at: [email protected] xx CH
Would you love be able to raise money to support your favorite cause or non-profit and GET PAID FOR IT?!
Matthew Dickey is a professional fundraiser. As "Director of Development" for the historical non-profit, "Gore Place Society" (GorePlace.org) he networks and connects with both new, potential donors as well as keeping connections with long-time donors.
What's "Development"? It's the term or title for a professional fund-raiser - or raising money for non-profits.
Parties, events and fundraisers are another perk that makes his - a really #CoolCareer !
Get out there and experience different things so that you can learn what you like and what kind of career you'd like to have.
Just do SOMETHING. Try something new!
The best way to find out what you like to do is to experiment with new roles.
Volunteering at different kinds of organizations is a great way to experiment with a new type of work or job to see if you like it.
It comes down to "Who do you know?" Building your Network is KEY.
The way to do that? You can meet people! by doing different things!
Get out of your comfort zone
Doing things that are different to what you normally do - makes you grow as an individual.
New experiences help you see perspectives from other people's eyes.
Matthew knows that he will always have a job because of his fund-raising skills. Every company needs to raise money!
Matthew's Career Path
Start: Matthew went to High School in Collinsville, Illinois. (Home to the world's largest ketchup bottle!) He was obsessed with Architecture and was always drawing little buildings.
Curve Ball: After High School, Matthew wanted to study at an Architectural College (to learn to design buildings). However, he hates 'Standardized Tests' and didn't do well on the college entrance exams so he didn't get into any of the colleges that he applied to.
Instead he stayed near his home and went to Art School and got a Bachelor's of Fine Art Degree in Painting.
How He Paid for School: He worked at a grocery store as a cashier and bagger for 5 1/2 years to pay for his college.
Tough Times: Matthew graduated from college in 2008 - during the U.S. "Great Recession". There were few jobs for anyone - especially someone with an art degree.
Instead, he decided to volunteer for a year to gain new experiences. Matthew says, the best way to see what kind of job you'd like to do is to volunteer with different organizations!
Curve Ball: Matthew was excited for his first volunteer position but it lost it's funding so he did not get into the program that he was originally accepted to.
Winner: Matthew didn't let that daunt him. Instead, he applied to all the regions that the program was in and got into Boise, Idaho. A far cry from New York City but it turned out great because ultimately he met his wife there!
Pivotal Moment: While there he taught art to refugee children and English to refugee adults.
Matthew didn't know how to speak their language but he just winged it! He learned more Spanish in 3 weeks while living in Peru than in all the years he studied in school. Experiences are Key!
Next Step: After traveling, Matthew came back to the U.S. but he still "Didn't know what he wanted to do with his life". He drove around and couch surfed while checking out different schools to see where he wanted to live. Ultimately this brought him to Boston
Matthew says that he knows that these skills that he has - working in 'Development' will ensure that he always has a job - because people and companies and non-profits will ALWAYS need people who can raise money.
So if you have a cause that you're passionate about - consider volunteering with their non-profit's 'Development Team'. This is a great way to experiment with a job, learn from the people who work there about their Career-Paths and see if it's something you'd like to pursue as your #CoolCareer !
Eli shares his story as a middle child of 11, raised by a single mom with little money. As a young boy, he endured bullying and getting beat-up (even by girls) on his way to school.
He shares his path to career success including his time in the army, in a tank and loading ammunition, and finally finding the job that he describes as "everyday enjoyment"! (more below)
Eli's mission is help other young people who may be going through the same things he's been through. Listen as he shares the secret he kept from his mother and family for years before coming out and eventually marrying his love.
His is a true success story forged by hard work, creativity, humor and an un-failing belief in Never Giving Up.
Self-Trained artist, Matt Tapia seized an opportunity to create a mural for a new stylish hotel, "The Surfjack" on his home-island of O'ahu. While it was only his third mural ever, he didn't let that daunt him. He did his research and put in the hard work and ultimately created this awesome, pool-postcard. #CareerInspiration
Born and raised on the island of O‘ahu, Matt Tapia ventured to New York City to cut his teeth in design and ended up working with clients like Ecko and Nike. Though the self-trained designer has only been creating murals and participating in POW! WOW! Hawaii for a few years, his “Wish You Were Here” message painted at the bottom of the pool here at Surfjack has created quite a buzz. Tapia was able to turn the Surfjack’s pool into an oversize postcard, creating a picture-perfect view for guests looking down from their balcony.
Fellow visual artist and filmmaker Vincent Ricafort caught up with Tapia to talk about his recent collaboration with the Surfjack.
RICAFORT: You just finished the project at the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club, it was one of the bigger art commissions. What is it like working as an artist in Hawaii‘i?
TAPIA: It’s just like working as an artist anywhere else I guess, you know? You go to work everyday and try to make it work. I was born and raised here so it’s nice to be home and working, making a living, not having to travel someplace else to try to carve out a piece of the pie for myself. I like it. Project’s like this are rare and I think if I wasn’t here I might not have had this opportunity. There’s a lot of really cool stuff going on at the Surfjack—from different artist collaborations, to the opening of Mahina & Suns and contributions from Vanguard Theory.
RICAFORT: What was the opportunity of working with the Surfjack like?
TAPIA: It was cool, everyone there was nice, the schedule was chaotic, but I guess that’s how it goes when you open a hotel. I’ve never had that experience before. Aside from crazy late nights, it was a cool experience.
RICAFORT: What were some of the challenges working on the mural for the hotel? Have you done anything like this before?
TAPIA: This was my third mural ever in my life. I’ve never painted on a pool either. As I approached the project I knew it was going to take more than just jumping in the pool and slapping some paint down, just because of the fact that the canvas is different. It’s not a wall somewhere that people are rarely going to touch. It’s at the bottom of a pool with over a bus full of water pushing down on the artwork every single day. After doing some research, I realized it was a unique problem that I had to find a solution for. Implementing it was a lot more work than I expected, but that’s kind of the fun of what I do. I try to find good, quality solutions to unique problems, implementing artwork and design on the world.
RICAFORT: I think the result speaks for itself. What do you hope the audience takes away from this work?
TAPIA: I just hope that it’s enjoyed. That’s what it was put there for—for people to see it and to evoke some kind of emotional response and hopefully lead to a connection with someone they know with someone far away that might get them to the islands as well. It’s a great place to be and Surfjack is a great addition to the landscape
YOUR ABILITY TO ASK FOR HELP – “All you have to do is SPEAK UP”.
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Find someone who can be a mentor in your life
And
Make sure YOU act as a MENTOR yourself. Help others!
Darren Says: “We forget to HELP OTHER PEOPLE”.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO TALK TO YOUR TEACHERS – They are willing to help!
Do what it takes!
Sometimes doing what it takes means staying after school, more homework, missing out on a few things – but in the end – When you do what it takes – You MOVE FORWARD. YOU are accountable… YOU grow.
“YOU control your future!”
DARREN’S FAVORITE BOOK: “The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson
He read 10 pages a day on the train to work.
"Plant. Cultivate. Harvest".
Plant = Ask for help. Ask questions.
Cultivate = LISTEN! Listen and put the good advice into effect.
Harvest = Develop the small, daily habits to guide you to success and ones to lift you up and get you back on your path if you make a mistake.
* * * * * * * * * *
Don’t look to a job or another person for happiness….
Happiness is the START of everything.
Get YOURSELF HAPPY first – and the rest will follow.
Your MINDSET affects your PERFORMANCE!
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STAY CONSISTENT
We all make mistakes…
Don’t let the failures get you down.
Consistently keep working – life is going to change
Failure is Your Iceberg
Break that iceberg into very small pieces!!!
Move AROUND that failure – INCH by INCH – and you move around that iceberg!
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Darren Says…
“It doesn’t matter where you start out – it just takes small daily disciplines to keep you on track.”
“Your story is what is going to propel you through life.”
“Write you goals – then write 3 things you can do daily to get closer to those goals.”
“Hold each other accountable – Help each other out!
If you're ready to come on board one of the fastest moving Fashion Companies in the country (and soon…the World!) then you need to take a look at this video and job description. Perhaps a full, creative life and career await you at - Nordstrom.
Nordstrom is a specialty retailer offering the very best of what’s next in fashion for men, women and children since 1901.
A day in the life…
As a Visual Stylist intern, you’ll play a dual role — part dedicated student, part visual expert. In this 8-9 week internship, you’ll…
* Learn the art and business of visual styling through hands-on experience building store visual displays and window presentations, and the rest of your time learning business and management skills in a variety of settings * Hone your production skills by installing and removing presentations, including propping, mannequins and lighting Share your knowledge and excitement about fashion by creating promotional displays that show off our latest merchandise for in-store events as well as individual departments * Develop your eye for detail regarding design, composition, merchandising and quality * Be a productive member of your team by educating departments on styling tables, back walls and merchandising * Ensure compliance of corporate signage programs and proper safety guidelines * Earn a competitive wage and fabulous employee discount * Plan and implement all store campaigns and activities together with the store team * Train, coach and give daily feedback on garment presentation to the store staff Help the store make a great first impression on our customers every day
You own this if you…
* Are graduating from college in 2016 or 2017 * Have experience in merchandising and visual styling * Are all about setting and meeting goals * Consider ladders and power tools as part of your normal day * Build great relationships through stellar communication and follow-through * Thrive in a fast-paced environment thanks to your ace organizational skills and ability to quickly learn new processes and procedures * Are able to work independently while still working within a team environment * Have flexibility to work additional and/or different hours based on changing needs of the business – including additional training and intern meetings
We’ve got you covered…
* We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision and dental coverage, a fabulous merchandise discount, an employer-matched 401(k) plan and much more.
* We are an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a diverse environment.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature of the work employees can expect within this particular job classification. It is certainly not a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required for this job. No visa sponsorship is available. Nordstrom will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all legal requirements. #LI-LD1
Job: Full Line Store Date Posted: 01/08/2016, 3:03:01 PM Location: United States-New York-White Plains
This definition says: Graphic Design integrates technology and art to communicate an idea, information or statement.
Graphic designers create visual concepts - using computer software or by hand - to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as for advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.
It's the art or profession of visual communication that combines images, words, and ideas to convey information to an audience, especially to produce a specific effect. (Dictionary.com)
What do Graphic designers do?
Graphic designers are ambassadors of meaning. They define commercial identity through trademarks and logos. They broker understanding across language barriers. They clarify the messages of authors, advertisers, organizations, and the media with type, image, and space. They meet with clients or the art director to determine what the client and the project need (source)
Every day is different! A Graphic Designer's also...
Uses digital illustration, photo-editing software, and layout software to create designs Creates visual elements such as logos, original images, and illustrations that help deliver a desired message Designs layouts and select colors, images, and typefaces/fonts to use Presents design concepts to clients or art directors Incorporates changes recommended by clients or art directors into final designs Reviews designs for errors before printing or publishing them
Different job types:
You can work as an Independent Contractor or Part of a team
Typographer, Creative Director , Art Director, Web Design Engineer, Production Designer
Think you might be interested in a career in Graphic Design?
We interviewed Brion Issacs of Rivington Design Studio in New York City to get an idea of what it takes. Have a peek. We've also included all the tips tricks and websites you can check out now.
Creative Director and Graphic Designer, Brion Isaacs (left), founder of 'Rivington Design House'.
He and his team create Designs That Solve Problems.
Take a look at BRION'S (curvy) CAREER PATH (Hint: It's not always a straight line to to 'the finish'.)
Brion Isaacs has a problem solving mind.
Even a bottle of dish washing soap - feet away from him - catches his eye and he immediately gives it a mental re-design. Maybe he can't help it… Diagnosed with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) when he was a young boy, Brion was not a typical student. He new he learned differently. However, he also liked teaching himself - And he was good at it. Brion has taught himself everything from drumming to writing code.
At 10 years old - Brion went to work in an art store. He did everything from unloading boxes on the dock to delicately loading art-pens in their display. From the stock room, he moved to the Fine Art area and then the Framing department. All this greatly contributed to cultivating his “EYE” for art and for the creative process.
At 14 years old – one of the kids at school asked him to draw their name in his “cool technique”. His first client.
After school, on his way home, Brion would cut through Bloomindales - the famous New York department store. Because of that shortcut, he was constantly being exposed to creativity. It was in the fashion and the new designs, the merchandising of the store itself and even the customers - always showing off their personal style.
TIP!Be open and open minded as an artist. Expose yourself to art and new ideas, things, sights and experiences. Fuel your creativity!
From age 17 and on, Brion played in several bands and in such historic night clubs as CBGB AND COUCHELL. He toured the world as a D.J., a drummer and an all-around musician.
During his time touring, Brion and his friend made their flyers to promote their gigs. Brion looks back now and realizes that although they didn't realize it at the time - they were doing graphic design even then.
Later, Brion pursued his design at F.I.T. but stresses that it's not so much a 'traditional education' that you need - rather a critical eye, the ability to collaborate well, and the commitment to put in the time and effort to create the work.
Brion was determined to succeed as a designer but also had to keep the money coming in. He created a grueling schedule where from 12pm to 9pm – he would do GRAPHIC DESIGN then from 10pm – 4- 6am in the morning he would DJ.
His hard work paid off and he was able to design full time and has even opened his own studio in a trendy downtown neighborhood in Downtown New York City.
KEY! Brion says one of the keys to his success is 'Saying YES – and then be willing to put in the hours to learn it and actually get it done!!
"Ask for help!" Brion spent a lot of time teaching himself everything from Photoshop and Illustrator to How to Code, drumming and even how to D.J. After attempting to fix his own computer - he realized "You can make things worse!" and realized the value of 'ASKING FOR HELP'.
Be a sponge. Start to see the world through the eye of a Graphic Designer. Take note of package design you admire. Snap a photo of a magazine cover who's TYPEOGRAPHY you love. Start an Inspiration Board. Ideas: The Art of: The Mood Board
Brion's Top Tip: RESEARCH! Do you research. Be a sponge and take note of everything around you. Great design and ideas are all around you and the key is to looking beyond what the average eye sees. See with a CREATIVE MIND AND EYE.
"A better solution" – is that at the heart of his approach to design.
Collaborate! Work with friends and fellow students on projects. 'Creatives' are inspired by each other. 'Bouncing off ideas' with each other leads to brilliant, collaborative design. (And think of the things you could learn!)
This Boston Non-Profit can help YOU get your start in Graphic Design. YouthDesign.org
Top Tip from Graphic Designer: Gwen W. "I recommend (all students) read the Steve Jobs Autobiography. It is so good.... and it reinforces the simplicity design factor that too many designers seem to miss. Elegance and simplicity."
Start curating different designers on Pinterest and Instagram #GraphicDesign - See what styles draw your attention. What looks like something you'd create or would like to create.
Then, START YOUR OWN PINTEREST AND INSTAGRAM accounts showcasing the work you're doing (even if it's just a hobby for now). 'Pin' other designs that inspire you. (This is a cool one).
Insider Tip! This is you building your first online portfolio!
Make sure you add 'Graphic Designer' to your resume! This shows self-motivation, ingenuity and creative thinking.
Next Step: Is there a business you love? Create a logo, an ad or flyer for them on your own and present it to them! You never know… They may love it and BOOM! You've just landed your first client.
Note: You may not get paid at first - but it's a great way to be on the 'inside' when jobs open up. Be a sponge and learn everything you can!
ALWAYS have your business cards and resume with you - because you never know who you might meet.
There's SO MANY people who do 'Great Hair'… You have your own favorite stylist… right?
This question is also asked in 'Hollywood'… For example - there are so many great actors.. how do those certain 'ones' become "Movie Stars"? The Angelina Jolie's or the Oprah Winfrey's of the world…?
How does one out of THOUSANDS of great, young singers become Selena Gomez or Justin Beiber?
How does one out of hundreds of thousands of chefs and cooks become "Mario Battoli" or Rachel Ray?
The following article in The New York Times profiles one such 'Hollywood Hairstylist' who most definitely is at the top of her game - but also recognized when she got her BIG BREAK with a certain celebrity family and then MARKETED THE HELL OUT OF IT.
Now You...
The full article is below or…
Short on time? Check out our Top 6 Favorite Tips:
1. Just Do It: As a teen "I was the odd person out in my family," (Jen Atkin) said. However, she didn't let that stop her. She was determined to make a career in hair and even started by giving herself a celebrity-copy haircut.
3. Be Professional: She is known for her DRIVE & DISCRETION. Even though she's with celebrities all day - she resists the urge to gossip - thereby ensuring her a top seat on their 'Who Ya Gonna Call' list.
4. Put in the Work! She started at the bottom as a salon receptionist and worked her way up - never thinking she was 'owed' something - but willing to work very hard to get it.
5. Save, Save, Save: Your money looks best in the bank. Jen watched many talented stylists become over-confident and spend their money unwisely. While they crashed-and-burned… She continued to WORK her way to the top.
6. Show Up: Khloe Kardashian on Jen… '(She'll) never take advantage' and "Jen is always on time in the morning".
"The fall months should have been a bonanza for beauty trends as global fashion weeks set the aesthetic of the season in dramatic runway gestures. But arguably the most influential hair arbiter of our time was nowhere near the fog of hair spray that clouds the backstage areas.
Rather, you were more likely to find her, a brunette waif from Los Angeles named Jen Atkin, breathing the rarefied air of celebrity hotel rooms.
On a bright fall day, she was holed up in the Trump hotel in SoHo, wrapping up work on two of her famous clients: Khloé and Kourtney Kardashian. Earlier, she had tended to Kim Kardashian and her daughter, North, and after a week of curling, teasing and smoothing the tresses of the entire sisterly crew (she styles the sides of their hair while her assistants work on the back), Ms. Atkin was exhausted. “I maybe have two years left in me of this,” she said, flopping down on a hotel banquette.
That’s because in a relatively short time (it was about five years ago when she first did Kim’s hair for a Cosmopolitan magazine shoot), Ms. Atkin’s star has played out like a feverishly hot new TV show. Her work — along with the Kardashians, her clients include Jessica Alba, Sofia Vergara and Katy Perry — has been disseminated via traditional and social media to hundreds of millions of followers. She herself now has some 900,000 followers on Instagram, and she admits that she has become as known for her social media prowess as for her talent with hair.
“I’m very good at marketing myself,” Ms. Atkin said. “I do what I do, and I’m good for what I do, but I’m not the best hairstylist.” (WWD and Variety would beg to differ: The publications are jointly honoring her with a Stylemaker of the Year award this week.)
Whatever her hair skills, Ms. Atkin knows what women want. The beachy waves that continue to appeal long after summer is past? You can thank Ms. Atkin for her oft-imitated version, which has become a Khloé Kardashian signature. Or the tousled short bob: See Ms. Atkin’s recent cut on Jenna Dewan Tatum.
Her sway is such that she now employs 20 people to help run her growing empire, which along with her celebrity clientele, includes ManeAddicts.com, a hair content site; Mane University, professional hairstyling classes with lauded stylists like Rita Hazan; and a hair-care line called Ouai scheduled to be introduced next spring.
Ms. Atkin credits the rise of celebrity influence (and thus her own) to realistic circumstances. “I love that ’80s structured hair, but we are never going to go back to there,” she said, adding that her trademark is “undone hair.” Women simply don’t have the time to imitate those coifs. “Especially in America, we barely have 30 minutes to go to Drybar,” she said.
And even if the celebrities and off-duty models who have become the default totems are not realistic icons, their looks are more approachable than the super-crimped or plastered-down catwalk styles. “The runway looks just aren’t attainable,” Ms. Atkin said.
In the hair world, this viewpoint may seem like old news, but Ms. Atkin stands out in other ways — namely, her drive and discretion. As much as she has benefited from the celebrity wattage, she hasn’t been blinded by the klieg lights. Her Mormon upbringing, she said, has kept her grounded.
Ms. Atkin said that she spent a “very sheltered” childhood on Oahu’s North Shore and in St. George, Utah, though she was obsessed with pop culture. Even as a teenager, having given herself a Natalie Imbruglia razor cut (from the “Torn” video), she was determined to make a career in hair. It wasn’t the typical Mormon track.
“I was the odd person out in my family,” she said.
So at 19, when she moved to Los Angeles with her best friend, it was a very “Romy and Michele” moment, she said. Back then, she said, church members would approach her mother to say, “I’m so sorry for your daughter.”
In 2000, she landed a job as a receptionist at the prestigious Estilo salon. “I was, like, feeding Stevie Nicks and Bette Midler’s meters for about two years,” she said. It was also where she saw talented stylists crash and burn from drugs and overspending. “It was people who had a lot of clothes in the closet, no money in the bank,” she said. “They thought they were the celebrities, that this would never end.”
Ms. Atkin eventually worked (and networked) her way up, assisting the hairstylist Andy Lecompte on Madonna’s 2006 “Confessions” tour, and for five years, she was, the personal hair stylist for John Galliano. She worked hard and steered clear of gossip. In fact, despite what may seem like a predilection for oversharing on social media, Ms. Atkin doesn’t divulge much about her clients beyond what’s already out there. That’s one reason Khloé Kardashian favors Ms. Atkin over other celebrity hairstylists.
“You don’t know who knows who in this industry,” Ms. Kardashian said. “I can’t tell you how many times, when I’m in the chair, the stylist or makeup artist is speaking crap about somebody. They often do it because they think they’re getting an ‘in’ with us because they’re telling us the inside drama. For me, it only makes me wonder, ‘What are they saying about me when I’m not there?’”
Also, the intimate nature of celebrity hairstyling (Ms. Kardashian sees Ms. Atkin nearly every day, often in the crotchety early-morning hours) requires an easygoing demeanor. “I genuinely love Jen’s personality.” Ms. Kardashian said. “She’s snarky and witty and has phenomenal one-liners. She’s become one of my best friends.”
More important, just because the two have become close, Ms. Atkin has not taken advantage of her position. “It’s knowing that I could hang out and get drunk with you and you’ll never take advantage,” Ms. Kardashian said. “Some people, you give them an inch and they take a mile. Jen is always on time in the morning.”
Thirteen youth from Boston Area Public Schools were recently hosted by the hotel's assistant Human Resources Manager, Tom C. Tom created an unforgettable day starting with a tour of the various rooms that the Marriott offers - from a double occupancy to a luxury suite and even a room designed strictly for top-tier meetings or even private parties. (Insider scoop: The views were Ah-mazing!)
From there we gathered in one of their luxury conference rooms to hear from four of their young executives who all started their careers at 18-19 years old. (scroll down to see their career paths).
-- Everyone who works at The Boston Marriott Copley Place is called a "Host" - because no matter what department you work in - your goal is to always make your guests feel welcome… like a great host. 1150 Rooms - 620 Hosts.
-- Every employee wears a Puzzle-Piece pin on their lapel. This is to remind them that they are all an integral piece of the puzzle that makes up the hotel as a whole.
-- Because hotels are 24/7 businesses - there are many jobs - so many employees work in shifts to make sure everything runs seamlessly for their hundreds of guests.
-- And it's not just those faces that you see at the front desk… (continued below)
-- Love cooking? The Marriott has food available to their guests 24/7 - which means the kitchen must always be staffed. There is always a demand for chefs and kitchen-prep employees.
-- Love working with your hands? The hotel's 'Engineering and Maintenance Departments' handle everything from elevator repairs to conference room and ball-room party set-ups and everything in between.
-- Are you a people person? The front desk attendants, concierge and Bell men are the first faces the guests see and create the guest's first impression of the hotel.
-- Love cars (and tips!)? There are valet attendants - 24/7.
-- Are you a Techie? There are dedicated team members who take care of all the technology that the hotel needs to operate - from the check-in process to setting up the conference room's video and audio equipment.
-- Love to organize? Are you a "Domestic goddess"? Start your hotel career in housekeeping!
-- Are you more a behind-the-scenes person? There are many jobs in the Administrative Department of the hotel that oversee not just the guest's and hotel's needs - but the Employee's needs as well.
Jerome started as a bellman at 19 years old and worked in that department for over 3 years. He then moved to the Front Desk where he was ultimately promoted to The Front Desk Supervisor, then to Assistant Manager and has now been picked to Lead the ENTIRE Housekeeping Department!
Even after all these jobs and promotions he says he still loves exploring all of the various hotel jobs and even hopes to one day work in Sales. The ambition and hard work that helped him rise to the Executive level (and the Executive pay-level !) will be just the ticket to get him there.
His favorite part of his #CoolCareer? He loves the day-to-day interaction with the guests and meeting people from all over the world.
ALFONSO'S STORY:
Alfonso at 19 years old didn't know what he wanted to do with his life. One day he was walking by the Copley Mall (in Boston) and thought… what about the hotel business? He applied at The Marriott and started as a barista with the 'Starbucks' there. (The Starbucks staff are actually Marriott employees).
He worked his way up to managing the Starbucks - which is the busiest Starbucks in Boston with over 7000 transactions per week! He did so well there in fact, that the Marriott recently promoted him to Assistant Manager of the Marriott's huge restaurant and Sports Bar, "Champions".
Alfonso credits his amazing success to his dedication to not only the hotel's guests but to his relationships with his staff. To that, he regularly checks in with them and he genuinely cares what's going on in their lives and with their families. His motto is 'Happy Hosts = Happy Guests'.
His mission: "I want to do for them (his staff) what someone did for me".
Best part? The interactions and connections you make with the guests and staff.
MICHAEL'S STORY:
Michael, who immigrated from Poland, started in the hotel business 12 years ago at 18 yrs. old.
He started at a small hotel in Florida where he worked as a window washer. If he was done early he would then help out the Housekeeping Department. Fast forward… He was ultimately made 'Supervisor' of the Housekeeping Department!
Later, when he heard about a new property opening in Florida, he applied for and was hired as: "Night Auditor". (more info) He worked his way up to the A.M. shift, then to A.M. Shift Leader and all the way up to Lead Supervisor of the Front Desk Operations.
He did that for several years and although he was quite successful at the small hotel, he dreamed of moving to a larger company but worried that he'd miss family and friends.
Michael ultimately decided that he was willing to make the sacrifice and take the risk to LEARN MORE. He took a position at 'The Intercontinental Hotel' in Boston and is now an executive with the Marriott Group.
Michael's Top-Tip? 'Cultivate and care for your Professional Network and never 'burn bridges'! Keep up with your Industry Connections and LinkedIn Connections. This is the best way to learn about new job-openings and get fast-tracked through the Interview process.'
His favorite perk of the Hotel Business? He always gets free or discounted rooms when he travels because he has so many friends in 'The Biz'!
Next Step: Ask local hotels if they accept interns. You may not get paid at first - but it's a great way to be on the 'inside' when jobs open up. Be a sponge and learn everything you can!
Watch for Career-Fairs that feature Hotel Groups and look out for Hotel and Travel Trade Shows in your area. Go in armed with your business cards and resume - because you never know who you might meet.
After H.S:If you choose - once out of High School, you can apply directly to Colleges and Universities that offer 'Hotel Programs'. These schools are ideal as they do a lot of recruiting after graduation so your first job is often secured before you graduate. Like glamour and bright lights?! The University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV) has a world renown Hotel Administration Program.
Cruise Hotel Service Member (Waiters/Housekeepers)
American Cruise Lines
All cities, ME
Would you like to travel America's waterways and earn some great cash along the way?
American Cruise Lines is looking for enthusiastic individuals to work aboard each of its ships in the United States. We operate the newest cruise ships on rivers around the country and are always hiring happy, energetic people to join us. Most service member candidates are looking to begin a career in hospitality or are simply taking a semester off from college to save money.
This is a unique semester-long (12 weeks) position to gain experience in the hospitality industry aboard a cruise ship.
The Perks
Save Money – Pay ranges from $700 to $1,000 per week, because most of your compensation comes from passenger gratuities. Gratuities are pooled and divided equally every week. You'll earn upwards of $12,000 during your tenure.
Few Expenses – While on the ship, your accommodations and meals are all provided for you. It’s a dormitory-style environment most people are comfortable with from college.
Travel - We visit 28 states on our different cruises. While working with us, you will visit a number of unique towns and cities you may never have thought you would see.
Hospitality Experience – This is an excellent beginning to a career in the hospitality industry and a way to build your resume with experience in food service, housekeeping, and interpersonal skills.
Upward Mobility – Successful stewards may return to the company in either shipboard management or corporate positions. We have room to grow if you want more than just a job.
The Expectations
Hard work – everyone in our organization works hard to keep guests happy. For Stewards, that means waiting tables, servicing staterooms, and responding to all requests with courtesy.
Long hours – While on the ship, you live where you work. That means you have responsibilities every day, even early in the morning and late at night.
Commitment to Excellence – Everything we do is for the safety, comfort and enjoyment of our guests. Every request should be handled with precision and care.
Ground Rules
If this unique travel experience is of interest, just make sure you will comply with each of these criteria and we would love to hear from you:
You are at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school.
You are an American citizen or legally permitted to work in the United States.
The 12-7-12 Rule. You have to be willing to work at least 12 hours a day, 7 days a week, for 12 consecutive weeks (the length of a college semester).
The US Coast Guard requires a pre-employment drug test that includes tests for marijuana. We are also an alcohol free company.
You can meet moderate physical demands, including lifting, bending, climbing, and long periods of standing or walking.
Calm under pressure – you can appear neat, well-groomed, and positive.
Must be well groomed and not have any major arm or neck tattoos.
American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise company and operates the newest fleet of riverboats and small cruise ships around the country. Our people make the difference. We recognize that our employees have made, and will keep us America's leading river cruise specialist.
Our philosophy for success is simple; hire talented people then provide training, support systems and motivation so you will thrive. Long established and deeply experienced in cruise travel, American Cruise Lines has been honored with multiple awards, including Porthole Reader’s Choice Awards in 2014, World Travel Awards “World’s Leading River Cruise Company” in 2013, “Gold Award Winner” for Travel Weekly’s 2014 Magellan Awards and a 2014 finalist for Condé Nast Traveler's Reader’s Choice Awards.”
