How many people call their job FUN?!
She does!
Click the photo below to hear more about Jennifer's #CoolCareer or check it out on our YouTube Channel here...
Happy viewing! xx CH
Explore Cool Careers
03/13/2017
01/08/2017
Her Career Path: From 'The Projects in Harlem' to Financial Success
By her own account, Patricia Rowan wasn't always this successful...
Her life may have been very different if it weren't for a change in her school that took her from her neighborhood in Harlem into downtown New York City.
Now Patricia has a Global Role with Procter & Gamble's Gillette Corporation and travels the world in Business Class! She's lived in several major cities and has done work in some of the most exciting, exotic countries in the world.
Hear how from her first school-bus ride into New York City at the age of 13, she discovered a whole new world of people and opportunity and from then on - knew her life could be different. She shares the steps she took to achieve more career and financial success than she could have ever imagined...and hopes to inspire YOU next.
Click the video above or click here to view on our YouTube channel
Patricia Rowan - Associate Director of Human Resources for 'Gillette's Product Supply' business.
Pat's Top Advice:
- Experiences are the key to change and success. It's what changed her life.
- For Pat, she knew that education was the key to changing her life.
- It pays to speak up.
- ASK FOR HELP.
- A 'no' might mean a 'no' for today but it's not a 'no' forever.
- You can make a "way" when there is "no way".
- You HAVE to keep trying!
- Have contacts (Network!) and let people know what you are up to and what you are looking for. (Speak Up!)
- Believe in yourself - even when you're scared. (Pat still gets scared but she believes in herself and powers though!)
- Resources may be inside you or they may be around you. Use your Resources and Network.
Pat's Career Path
Tough Start: Patricia (Pat) grew up on "on the 20th floor of a Project House" in Harlem, New York. She is 1 of 5 kids. She felt confined by what she calls, "the four walls of Harlem". She didn't know anything about life beyond her neighborhood.
Pivotal Moment: One year, her school district changed and she was bused out of Harlem into downtown New York City. She says: That experience of leaving Harlem - is what changed her destiny. For the first time, she saw that her life could be something different and thought "I want to be like that too". She knew she wanted to shoot for more.
1st Job: Pat got her first job while she was still in High-School. She worked because she saw people around her doing better and doing more. She wanted to have her own money. She worked in a grocery store as a cashier and grocery bagger.
Mantra: Pat is the type of person who when she sees something - she goes after it!
School: Pat's parents did not go to college but Pat realized that EDUCATION was THE KEY to HER changing her life.
College: When Pat graduated from high-school, she applied to college and got in. In college she wasn't sure what she wanted to do. She thought being a doctor would be a good idea because that's the only career she'd really heard of.
Pat loves people so she took a class in Psychology and did really well in it. She also found that she LIKED reading about Psychology and even chose to read and learn about the subject just for fun! That's when she knew what she wanted to do with her life.
Learn more:
What is the Study of Psychology
2nd Job: Pat worked at McDonalds between her freshmen and sophomore year in college. She learned that if she wanted to succeed and do better - she needed to work. Life was not going to be handed to her on a silver platter.
While working at McDonald's, Pat realized she had to focus on school to have a better life.
Bump: Once out of college, Pat decided that she wanted to continue her schooling and get her Master's degree. When she told her Mom though - her Mom said there was no money. Pat did get accepted to 'Graduate School' and was excited. However, she was told the school had no financial aid for her.
Undaunted: Her Mother took her up to the University and met with the Dean of Psychology. His department had no money for Pat. Finally, the dean had an idea and found some financial aid in a completely different department where Pat wasn't even taking courses.
The experience taught her to not take 'No' for an answer and to be nimble in her thinking. If she heard 'No' to one try - then she would try another direction until it worked out for her.
Big Break: Pat helped some engineering students at her campus with their project. They then referred her to the company, 'Procter & Gamble' where Pat got her first interview.
The lesson she learned there? "I need to have contacts and let people know what I was up to and what I was looking for."
Learn more:
Explore all the #CoolCareers at Procter & Gamble
Career listings at Procter and Gamble
Boston Jobs and Careers at Gillette
Pat has been with Procter and Gamble for 29 years and LOVES her Cool Career. She says she still can't believe 'this person from Harlem would be at this place in her life'.
xx CH
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Why Exploring Places Outside of Your Neighborhood Is So Important to Your Success
The world is a big place...Yet new possibilities and opportunities are EVERYWHERE. They may be around the corner or a few miles down the road - if you're just willing to explore...
When we walked into Procter and Gamble to to interview, Patricia Rowan - Associate Director for Human Resources for Product Supply for Gillette - located in Boston, MA - We could have never expected the treasure-trove of advice and information we'd get.
(In fact, she had so much "Cool Career" advice that we are STILL creating videos!)
Pat grew up in Harlem - a neighborhood in New York City - in a 'Project House' on the 20th floor. She describes life as 'living inside the four walls of Harlem' and she knew little else of the world around her.
Then one day, her school changed and she was bused out of Harlem into downtown, New York City. It was only just a few miles away - but it showed her a whole new world of people, possibly and opportunity.
In this video, Pat tells us why she believes that her getting exposed to new areas, neighborhoods and people is THE KEY to her success today and what ultimately led her to achieve her #CoolCareer where she travels the world for work.
For more inspiration from Patricia - check out her full video here.
"From the Projects in Harlem to Career & Financial Success"
Happy watching... xx CH
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11/21/2016
Ready for a New Job or a Career Change? This Company is Hiring!
What we loved about hearing that 'UnitedHealth Group' was hiring was that if you are currently in any type of 'Customer Service' type job...For example if you are working in retail or at a restaurant - they are looking for your skills!
(plus they hire high-school grads / GED equivalents!)
And even if you haven't worked in customer service, they still want you to "count yourself in" as they have excellent training and support programs to get you started.
This could be a great career to segue into if you are looking to change fields or leave the retail or restaurant biz. And! It will help you grow some very strong job skills that employers are always looking for.
Learn more below and at: YourLifesBestWork.com/service
From UnitedHealth Group...
'What makes you special? People skills? Ability to help inform and guide decisions? A desire to do work that matters?
That makes you a great fit for this role.
As the Affordable Care Act continues to attract new members for UnitedHealth Group products, we’re adding to our team. You’ll facilitate the enrollment of new members who are choosing us for their coverage. Your work may involve preparing, processing and maintaining new member or group enrollments. This will include data entry and updates, responding to member eligibility or group questions or verifying enrollment status.
And while we challenge you to raise your game, we’re here to support and guide you every step of the way. You’ll find a work environment that places tremendous emphasis on mentoring, training and personal development.
We’ll support you with the latest tools, advanced, continuous training and the combined strength of a high caliber team. You’ll discover a wealth of pathways for professional growth within Customer Service and across our global company.
So there you have it. A chance to have significant influence and impact plus a role that takes you to new levels of performance.
This is a job that can quickly become your life’s best work.'
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08/25/2016
This Was Only This Young Artist's 3rd Mural Ever! Ck It Out!
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
Aloha xx The Career Hound
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03/29/2016
Cool Career: Visual Stylist (aka): In-Store Visual Displays - Fashion, Creative, Production
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
Happy styling xx The A-List
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Cool Career: Graphic Designer
Cool Career: Graphic Designer
Education Options: Self Taught or Online Graphic Design Degree Programs or (2 year or 4 year degree),
Salary Potential: $$,$$$ - The Sky's the Limit...
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Graphic design is ALL AROUND US. Seriously!
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Did you wash dishes this morning? Somebody created that label on the soap.
The cover of your favorite book…Hello graphic-designer!
The packaging on your latest video game? A graphic artist designed that.
Consumer goods, television, movies, magazines, catalogs, websites… almost everything we interact with has had the touch of a graphic artist...
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(Check out how this Web Design Engineer (aka: Graphic Designer) makes the most of her Cool Career!)
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What is Graphic Design?
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
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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.
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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!!
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BRION'S TOP TIPS
"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!)
BE A TEAM PLAYER! Design is a COLLABORATIVE process
"Its not just about drawing it's about your means of SPEAKING. It's your “STYLE”.
TOP TIP! Absolutely know the Adobe Creative Suite! Check out these online tutorials. (NOTE: These programs allow you to do the same task – many different ways. Be open to learning new tips and tricks).
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Check out how this GRAPHIC DESIGNER landed his FIRST JOB AT 16 years old. (very nice.co)
How cute are this girl's illustrations?! She's boosting her career with her Instagram account.
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."
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WHAT YOU CAN BE DOING NOW
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!
5 Free Portfolio Sites for Designers and Artists
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WHERE TO START
Any Age: Start your own "Graphic Design" Business.
Create your own business cards and let neighbors, teachers, local business owners, friends and family know that YOUR SERVICES ARE FOR HIRE!
Don't forget to add ALL of your work (paid or not) to your resume.
YOU CAN...
- Create flyers for a local business.
- Join your school's newspaper for outstanding learning opportunities and access to computers, software programs and tons of experience.
- Create flyers for your school's fundraisers and athletic events.
- Do the same for your church or a local non-profit.
Create your own business cards with: Zazzle.com, VistaPrint.com, MOO.com
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.
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TIME TO LEARN
Check out these links to get you started on your Graphic Design career.
50 Most Amazingly Talented Graphic Designers You Should Follow
30 Popular Graphic Designers on Instagram
40 Books to Unlock Your Creativity and Get You Started On Your Life's Best Work
50 Brilliant Pinterest Boards (including the famous, Joy Chou of 'Oh Joy' (17 million followers!)
50 Graphic Designers to Follow on Pinterest
13 Reasons Why You Should Pursue Graphic Designer
5 Reasons Graphic Design is the Right Career for You
More Reasons to Choose a Career in Graphic Design
Best Part of Being a Graphic Designer
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Certificate Programs that have NO academic course requirements (Like this one.)
Free Online art, web and Graphic Design classes.
10 sites to find free Graphic Design courses online.
Top 24 online Graphic Design Courses
Amazingly simple Graphic Design software
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Schools That Offer Graphic Design Degrees
Graphic Design Degree Titles
Search these different titles for Graphic Design jobs and careers:
Graphic design
Communication design
Communications design
Visual communications
Visual communication design
Interaction design
Advertising design
Multimedia design
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Learn More
Images l-r: GDUsa.com, VeryNice.co, VisualNews.com
Learn more about the GRAPHIC DESIGN Industry by reading and subscribing to 'GRAPHIC DESIGN' websites and newsletters such as:
Got questions? Email us at: [email protected]
Good Luck in your new career! xx The A-Team
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How This Hairstylist Made Herself Into One Of The Most Influential Hair Gurus in the World
So how does one person - doing essentially the same thing as many others - somehow soar to the TOP in their career?
Follow Jen Atkin on Instagram @JenAtkinHair & @ManeAddicts & ManeAddicts.com
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.
2. Self Promotion: aka: 'Toot Your Own Horn' - She has 900,000 followers on Instagram (@JenAtkinHair) and admits "that she has become as known for her social media prowess as for her talent with hair."
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".
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Jen Conquering her biggest fear: Public Speaking
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Full Article below or here.
"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.”
Happy styling… xx The A-List
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Cool Career: How To Break Into The Hotel Industry
"Never the same day twice"…
That's the top consensus from our recent tour and interview with hotel and hospitality executives at The Boston Marriott Copley Place… part of the world-famous Marriott Hotels Group.
Keep reading for more info on your #CareerPath into the Hotel Industry...
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Education
There are MANY JOBS in the hotel industry with ENTRY LEVELS at EVERY STAGE from High-School diploma to 2-Years Community College to 4-Year degrees...
Training: Internships, Apprenticeships, Trainee Programs all the way to "Global Leadership Development Programs" are available at The Marriott and most major hotels.
Salary: $$,$$$ to $$$,$$$ +
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The Tour
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).
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Fast-Facts
-- 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)
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Types of Careers
-- 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.
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JEROME'S STORY
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'!
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Where To Start
Any Age: Start your own "Personal Concierge" Business.
Create your own business cards and let neighbors, teachers, local business owners, friends and family know that YOUR SERVICES ARE FOR HIRE!
YOU CAN...
- Run errands, Do Post Office and Package Delivery runs and drop/offs...
- Custom dog-walking,
- Baby-sitting, After-School Sitting, Homework help and tutoring
- House Sitting and/or Pet Sitting
- Elderly-sitting and Elderly-Companionship (fast-growing service!)
- Grocery-shopping and grocery delivery service (for local homes and even restaurants!)
- Offer to wait for maintenance and service people at your clients home's when they are at work
- Lunch delivery services for local offices
- Love fashion? Offer your Personal Styling services, Tailoring, Ironing or Mending services
- Lawn and Garden maintenance
- House-keeping skills
- Become an UBER driver or a Valet Car Parker (LuxeValet.com)
Create your own business cards with: Zazzle.com, VistaPrint.com, MOO.com
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And make sure that you add your 'Concierge Service' to your resume! This shows self-motivation, ingenuity and creative thinking.
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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.
Check Out All the Schools, Colleges and Universities that "Team Marriott" will be RECRUITING at!
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Learn More
Learn more about the Hotel Industry, key names and updates by reading and subscribing-to 'Hotel Industry' websites and newsletters such as:
Careers and The Marriott More Hotel and Hospitality Jobs
Got questions? Email us at: [email protected]
Good Luck in your new career! xx The A-Team
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Job of the Day: Your mad Barista skills = District Manager!
Love coffee, people and more money!?
Ready to take your Barista skills to the next level and earn up to $31,000 a year?!
Job of the Day: "District Manager for Boston's largest independently owned roaster, retailer, and wholesaler of specialty coffees."
Click here to APPLY and get all the details.
We love coffee… xx The A-List
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