When you think of an interview with a hairstylist, you might expect tips on how to do your hair. Don’t get us wrong, Jen Atkin is probably the best person on Earth to give hair tips, but that’s not why we’re here. Jen Atkin started from the bottom, and through years of hard work, became “The Most Influential Hair Stylist in the World,” according to the New York Times. In addition to styling the top celebrities in the world on the daily, she founded and manages three successful companies, including a personal favorite of ours, Ouai Haircare. We present to you, our Boss Crush, the inspirational Jen Atkin.
Now that you own and manage several companies, what do you find to be the most important aspect of being a boss?
When we think of success in business, we usually think of money. To me, business is creating something that makes people’s lives better. As I’m promoting my work, I’m also trying to lead and start conversations about, “What I can do for other people? What I can create that will make people’s lives better?” That’s what business should be about, and I think successful businesses understand that. Taking away that financial goal and focusing on your message and what you’re about and what you’re putting out there is really important. The other thing I’d say is to be as authentic as you can be, because that’s what people crave now.
What aspect of your career makes you feel most empowered?
It always felt very odd to me that there was a lot of men in boardrooms making decisions about what women want. So the fact that the companies I own are made up of a group of women talking to other women about their haircare needs feels pretty empowering.
The New York Times has labeled you as the most influential hairstylist in the world… What has allowed you to get to this point?
I grew up in a sheltered household, but I was taught to set goals and achieve them, to multi task, to push myself. You have to be disciplined. While all your friends are out goofing off or partying, you must stay put and hustle. Also find a mentor. Find a woman who you really respect and don’t be afraid to ASK QUESTIONS. We also live in a time where women are changing the conversations in business. We are running social media. We are the ones who are going to change the future and its happening right now. So let your voice be heard.
How do you use social media to your advantage?
I’ve always been obsessed with social media and technology, so creating a social presence came really naturally to me. I’m an over sharer so it’s fun and easy for me to use Instagram and Snapchat. I think beauty and fashion industries have the opportunity to connect directly to their audience now, especially through integrated content or collaborations with celebrities, bloggers and digital platforms.
What inspired you to create your own haircare line, OUAI?
It’s always been my dream to have my own hair line. I’ve been listening to my clients and followers for years and they all have the same complaints- they want healthier hair and they have a lack of time. I created OUAI as a real line for real life- it’s for the girl on the go that only has 5 minutes to do her hair. No more unrealistic hair campaigns- just multi-use products that cut styling time.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of owning your own businesses?
I think explaining a new way of thinking as a business. I’m always thinking of new ways to innovate the beauty industry while also remaining authentic and creative. I want to empower women to learn how to do their own hair by creating tools, products and content that make it easier to do (without a stylist). The goal is to stop making the conversation just about women being pretty and start celebrating the spirit and power of being a woman.
Why do you like to hire women?
Women are MULTI-TASKING AF. They wear many hats, take on many jobs, and do it with grace and fierceness. Modern women are driven, stylish, and are breaking down barriers in all kinds of industries.
Who is a badass boss whom you look up to?
Kris Jenner! Huda Beauty! Kylie Jenner!
What accomplishment are you the most proud of?
Launching OUAI and Mane Addicts. It’s been a long dream of mine to have my own hair care line. It has been the result of so much hard work for the past 2 years and it feels great to finally share it with the world. I also wanted to create the first community for professional hairstylists to go to for inspiration and product knowledge.
Have you ever struggled with confidence? How do you combat self doubt?
I believe a lot in positive thinking leads to positive actions and results. I’m also a Pisces and really rarely feel angry. lol
When you find yourself wanting a personal day (or night or hour) what does that look like?
Binge watching Real Housewives of Orange County at home. I also love a glass of Sauvignon Blanc with ice end of day. And on crazy weeks I end the week at Vanderpump Dogs to pet rescue puppies.
What is the single best day of your life and why?
Having a day off at home.
What do you keep on your bedside table?
I always keep a SILK Slip Eye Mask and book on my nightstand. I’m reading Shoe Dog by Phil Knight right now.
What is the most important piece of beauty advice that you have heard?
The best way to stay balanced is to get enough sleep! I love using the Sleep Pillow app to have white noise to chill out to.
Also, I strongly believe that skin and hair health start from within, for years I was sending clients to the health food store to buy supplements and vitamins before I came out with OUAI supplements.
What’s your advice for a young female (in any field) looking to find her way professionally?
Always have a non-competitive attitude. We have to know that supporting the success of others will never dampen our own. I think it’s important to pay it forward and support the other members of the team so we can all grow together. There’s enough to go around for everyone. Don’t expect success overnight. It takes years of hard work to start to build a long-standing career. I ask a lot of question from other successful female entrepreneurs in my life. Somethings I’ve learned: Don’t let the internet rush you. Break the normal rules. Stay true to your vision. Fight for the respect you deserve. Treat everyone equally important. Collaborate, don’t compete.