UP SKILLED

In today’s rapidly evolving world, staying ahead of the curve and continuously improving your craft is crucial for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, upgrading your skills is an investment that pays dividends throughout your career. As you all know, I love the stage and I’m certain it loves me. I’ve been performing on stage for over 15 years, but I recently enrolled in a course at the Stand Up and Speak Academy of Public Speaking. So many people have asked me: “WHY?”

Even as a seasoned speaker, there are many areas in my pitch that I feel need improvement. I mean, I still get the “I’m going to throw up” feeling right before getting on stage. But I love it; sharing information fuels me. I have completed two courses at Stand up and Speak, and both times, I’ve shared the room with individuals that have never once been on a stage; and they taught me more than I could’ve imagined. It was both humbling and exhilarating all at the same time. An experience we should all go through. Find your ‘humbling and exhilarating’ experience; it will change your life. Here are five reasons why you should upskill:

1. Stay Relevant in a Dynamic Industry:

Our industry is constantly evolving, driven by fashion, and emerging trends. Upgrading your skills ensures that you stay relevant and adaptable. By keeping up with the latest tools, techniques, and industry standards, you position yourself as a valuable asset to employers and clients alike. Embracing new knowledge and staying current in your craft allows you to navigate industry shifts with confidence and maintain a competitive edge.

2. Enhance Professional Credibility:

Continual skill development boosts your professional credibility and demonstrates your commitment to excellence. Employers and clients seek professionals who are dedicated to honing their craft and delivering high-quality results. By upgrading your skills, you showcase your willingness to go the extra mile to provide the best possible service. This enhanced credibility can open doors to new opportunities, promotions, and increased recognition within the industry.

3. Expand Your Career Opportunities:

Upgrading your craft expands your career horizons by opening doors to new opportunities. Acquiring new skills and knowledge can broaden your expertise, allowing you to take on more diverse clientele or transition into new areas of specialization. Additionally, upgrading your skills can make you more eligible for advanced roles, leadership positions, or entrepreneurial ventures. By continuously developing your abilities, you create a solid foundation for long-term career growth and exploration.

4. Boost Confidence and Personal Growth:

Investing in skill upgrades boosts your confidence and personal growth. As you master new techniques or acquire additional knowledge, you become more self-assured in your abilities. This increased confidence translates into greater job satisfaction, improved performance, and the motivation to tackle new challenges. Upgrading your craft not only enhances your professional life but also nurtures your personal development, fostering a sense of fulfillment and pride in your work.

5. Adapt to Changing Customer Expectations:

Customer expectations are ever-evolving, and keeping pace with their demands is vital for success. Upgrading your skills allows you to meet and exceed these expectations by offering innovative solutions and delivering exceptional customer experiences. By understanding and incorporating the latest industry trends, you can provide your clients with cutting-edge products, services, and insights. Upgrading your craft enables you to stay connected with your target audience, ensuring continued satisfaction and loyalty.

In a fast-paced and competitive world, upgrading your craft is not just an option; it’s a necessity. Embracing lifelong learning and continuously enhancing your skills is a strategic investment that pays off in numerous ways. By staying relevant, enhancing your professional credibility, expanding career opportunities, boosting confidence, and meeting evolving customer expectations, you position yourself for long-term success and fulfillment in your craft. So, take that leap, embrace growth, and unlock the limitless potential that awaits when you upgrade your skills.

Hot on her heels, we have Heila Pirzadeh. Heila is one of the industry’s hottest stylists to hit the salon floor in recent years. With just --- years of experience, she’s making her mark in the GTA. One of her goals is to make the cover of Efe Magazine. Needless to say, she had us at HELLO!

Nationality: Persian – Iran

Favorite Colour: Beige

Favorite Food: Burgers and Fries, If a burger arrives by Uber Eats… everyone know it’s for me.

If you were a drink, what would be: If you were a drink, what would be? Lychee Martini. Why? because it’s sweet with a little kick. You don’t know when it will hit you.

Why Hair: I’m an artist by nature. At the age of seven I won an international painting competition. But I never really honed in it. My dad was in IT, so I tried IT… it wasn’t for me. I literally tried everything. Real-estate, interior design, makeup... After all that, I finally decided to become a hairstylist. Not just styling, but colour as well. I made a big move and asked one of Canada’s top stylists if I could apprentice for her as I sat in her chair getting my colour done. I’m certain you know her… Sharon M, from Yoga Colourist Salon. Fast forward to today, and I have the privilege of working there. When working for one of the best, your only option is to also thrive to be the best. Every day I am learning and every day I am grateful to be a hairstylist.

Online learning vs In Person learning: Some things are okay to learn online, but for anything hairstyling, I think it has to be in-person. There is just that extra level of support you just can’t get online.

If I wasn’t a hairdresser I would be a detective, my investigation skills are on point. Nothing gets past me - I can find anything out.

To anyone just entering the industry, It’s not always going to be easy, do not give up. Go after anything that scares you. You get the best results that way.