Boss Babe: Vanessa Hurley from Lady Barber

Hey there, Boss Babes! In honor of International Women's Day, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Vanessa Hurley, a trailblazing female barber. Vanessa's journey in the industry is not only a testament to her skills but also an inspiration for aspiring hairdressers and barbers. In this interview, we dive into the world of barbering and explore how technology, innovation, and digital tools have helped Vanessa break down barriers and achieve remarkable success.

Using Technology to Achieve Success: When it comes to starting out in the barbering industry, Vanessa understands the power of technology and digital tools. She emphasizes the importance of building an online presence through avenues like flyers, websites, and local community Facebook pages. Vanessa has successfully attracted 80% of her clients through online resources. However, she knows that technology is just the beginning. Vanessa's real secret to success lies in her exceptional customer service, creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere, and building trust with her clients through personalized consultations.

Overcoming Stereotypes and Discrimination: As a female barber in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Vanessa has faced her fair share of skepticism. However, her skills and passion have proven her doubters wrong. Vanessa specializes in men's haircuts, even rocking the coveted mullet style. She chose the name "Lady Barber" as a bold statement, proudly embracing her identity without trying to conform to societal expectations. Vanessa believes that by excelling in her craft and embracing her uniqueness as a female barber, she can break down gender-based discrimination and inspire others to do the same.

Staying Ahead of the Curve: To stay updated with the latest trends, Vanessa utilizes technology to its fullest. Pinterest is her go-to resource for collecting inspiration and keeping up with diverse styles, whether it's short women's haircuts, trendy haircuts for older men, or anything in between. During consultations, Vanessa uses pictures as a guide to help her clients find the look they desire. By leveraging digital tools, she ensures that she can offer customized services that cater to individual needs.

Social Media and Inspiring Others: Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok play a vital role in promoting gender equality in the barbering industry. Vanessa understands the power of these platforms and uses them to showcase her incredible work. By posting before-and-after pictures, Vanessa shows the world that women can excel in the field of barbering. She exudes approachability and friendliness, proving that a female barber can be just as talented, if not more so, than her male counterparts. Through her social media presence, Vanessa aims to inspire others and encourage them to pursue their dreams, regardless of gender.

Challenges and the Path to Inclusion: While technology has undoubtedly played a significant role in the barbering industry's progress, it can also present challenges. Vanessa believes that the personal touch, the feel, and the interaction in the barbering industry should never be replaced by virtual consultations. However, she acknowledges that there is room for improvement. Vanessa dreams of having more time to send out newsletters and engage with her clients on a deeper level. She envisions creating a company that focuses on the online administrative side of the business, allowing barbers to dedicate their energy to their craft.

Creating a Sense of Belonging and Support: Online communities and forums can create a sense of belonging and support for women in the barbering industry. While these communities are still growing in New Zealand, Vanessa hopes to build something similar in the future. By following and connecting with other barbers online, Vanessa has found a sense of camaraderie andsupport. She understands the power of online connections and believes that leveraging these communities can promote greater diversity and inclusion in the industry. Vanessa encourages women in the barbering industry to seek out these online communities, engage in discussions, and share their experiences to foster a supportive network.

Promoting Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: Digital tools provide excellent opportunities for mentorship and networking in the barbering industry. Vanessa shares her experience of having a female boss during her apprenticeship, who served as a mentor and provided valuable guidance. She emphasizes the importance of building trust, showcasing one's skills, and embracing the unique services that female barbers can offer. Vanessa believes that by connecting with others in the industry through online platforms, aspiring barbers can find mentors, expand their network, and gain invaluable insights to further their careers.

Vanessa Hurley, the talented Lady Barber, serves as an inspiring example of how women can excel in the barbering industry. By harnessing the power of technology and digital tools, she has faught against stereotypes, embraced her uniqueness, and built a thriving career. Through her dedication, exceptional skills, and commitment to customer service, Vanessa has created a welcoming space where clients trust her expertise. Her story is a testament to the importance of inclusion and diversity in gender equality, and it serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring hairdressers and barbers.

If you're passionate about hairdressing or barbering, let Vanessa's journey inspire you. Embrace technology, build your online presence, and leverage digital tools to break down barriers and achieve success. Remember, your unique perspective and skills can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse industry.