Taking your hairdressing skills abroad
Published
31st May 2013
by bathamm
A career in hairdressing can take you all over the world - as these talented stylists have discovered.
Jenny Persson is currently working at the uber-luxurious One & Only resort in the ultra-sunny Maldives managing a new Taylor Taylor London salon. Here she talks about her career before making this exciting move and why she opted for a job so far from home.
What job were you doing for Taylor Taylor before the move?
I was working as a director and senior technician in our flagship salon on Commercial Street. I also worked on various projects for Taylor Taylor London such as editorial shoots and charity events.
What attracted you to the idea of working abroad?
Coming from Sweden, I have always valued working abroad as it provides exposure to new cultures and experiences that make you grow professionally and personally. I am always up for new challenges in life and I was eager to get more involved with the business side of Taylor Taylor London.
The opportunity to launch and manage the first international Taylor Taylor London salon in my dream destination, the Maldives, was too good to say no to. I thought how often in life do you get these opportunities? So, I seized it and I don't regret it.
Tell me about the job you are doing there?
Overall my responsibilities have been to set up, launch, train staff and manage the One & Only Hair Salon by Taylor Taylor London.
I managed the set up of the salon, collaborating with the One & Only to make sure that we had the right look, products and marketing. I wanted to make sure that everything about the salon breathes Taylor Taylor London on this tranquil island of Reethi Rah.
What have you learnt from being part of a five-star resort experience?
There are 800 employees at the resort and it was wonderful to see everybody from all corners of the world working together to make it a five-star experience for the guests. It makes me realise how important teamwork is and that every visit to the salon needs to be special for our guests. Service is always key in our industry.
Was there any annoying red tape
involved in making the move?
Most of the paperwork and visas were arranged via the One & Only and Taylor Taylor London and went very smoothly. The hardest thing for me was to know what to bring, but after packing and trying to cover every possibility while on the island I managed well on my 50kg of luggage!
How did you find accommodation?
My accommodation was provided - it's within a staff village on the middle of the island. The island even offers a beautiful staff beach. It is easy to relax on your days off with activities like tennis, badminton, volleyball and water sports. I particularly enjoy the snorkelling around the reef and diving. The resort also provides a lovely bar where staff can chill in the evenings after work. So it is a very comfortable place to stay.
How do your typical clients differ in your new location?
Clients are no different; they still want you to make them look fantastic and provide impeccable service. Many of our guests are hotel regulars and enjoy the new services we provide at Taylor Taylor London. Our job is to make sure they look and feel 'island chic' throughout their stay.
What do you like most about working in your new role?
Being part of Taylor Taylor London's growth internationally has been exciting; the launch of the salon and the marketing. I have enjoyed working with new people and different cultures in the Maldives.
Do you miss anything about the UK?
I am only here for a four-month period, which makes you appreciate what it is that you love and cherish in your normal day-to-day life. I really miss the freedom and the pulse of London city living.
What advice would you offer to another stylist thinking of working abroad?
I would definitely recommend it as it opens your mind and gives you a broader perspective on hairdressing in other environments. It is an experience that no one can take away from you and you will have an amazing time. Make sure before you go that you cover everything in your contract regarding your stay including salary, accommodation, insurances and vaccines. Don't be afraid to grab the opportunity, it might not come back to you again. And, remember, home is where you make it.
Mitesh Tailor
After attaining a business degree, Nottingham-based Mitesh Tailor decided working within a corporate environment simply wasn't for him. Having always been creative, he decided to retrain as a hairdresser to allow him to explore this further. After intensive training and seven years gaining experience with big brands, he decided to push his boundaries further by working abroad. Mitesh joined Saks Mumbai in November 2012 and is now a principal hairstylist.
What attracted you to the idea of working in Mumbai?
I wanted to work abroad and immerse myself within a different culture. And the fact that it was with Saks really sold it for me. Saks has an excellent reputation in the UK and the chance to be involved in the group's Indian operation from the beginning was just too good an opportunity to miss.
I was also really interested in working with different hair textures. I wanted lots of opportunities to continue to learn, travel and to work with talented, creative people. Saks Mumbai ticks every box.
What was your previous knowledge of Mumbai - was it as you expected?
I had an idea that it was a busy city. However, I didn't realise just how busy it would be and nothing prepares you for how vibrant it is. It's very cosmopolitan and I love it.
What do you like about the culture and your lifestyle there?
It's great that there are diverse cultures and religions living together. It's been a real eye-opener. There are also lots of celebrity sightings so it can be quite glamorous. There's a real sense of freedom in the city.
What have been the biggest challenges in your new role?
Interpreting my clients' needs differently. Mumbai women generally love their long hair, so convincing them to go shorter can be a challenge. It's great when they do and amazing when they then recommend a Saks visit to their friends.
What do you miss most about the UK?
Sunday fry-ups and my family!
What advice would you give to someone considering working abroad that would make the move easier?
Be open-minded and patient. Give it a chance as it can take a while to adapt and get your bearings.
How did Saks help you with the practicalities of relocating?
Saks Mumbai issued me with a one-year contract, renewable by mutual agreement, which I thought was a good idea given it's such a life-changing experience. Saks guided me through the visa application and supplied all of the documentation. And I was provided with outgoing and return flights. They also cover accommodation and work travel costs.
Saks also provides on-going support while I'm in Mumbai. They helped me settle in and find my feet. I also received in-depth training and regular refresher sessions from the UK. In fact, I'm currently with the Saks artistic team in Covent Garden for two weeks, being taught the latest Saks techniques.