Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Opdahl
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
• One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
I am a believer of manifestation. At the beginning of my entrepreneurship I never avoided how big or out of reality my thoughts and dreams were. I started believing in the fact that I could do this. I believed that “I could open my own salon “. I began to realize that I have probably gone through very difficult scenarios in my life and that I have surpassed them . Thinking this way has really lifted my self esteem in the areas of business. When I set my mind to believe that I will make things happen I get a sense of confidence, this allows me to move forward and even through any set backs I keep my goals in front of me. If there’s something I must learn, I go find it. If I suddenly feel fear I go back to remembering that if i don’t try, i will never find out. Not all
Not everything has been incredibly positive in my story, situations and obstacles happen . But I continue to educate myself and learn from what hasn’t gone right. I keep my confidence in knowing that I am still learning and moving forward is the way to make my goals a reality.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
• Please tell our readers about what you do, what you feel is most exciting or special about it, as well as anything else you’d like folks to know about your brand/art/etc. If relevant, please also tell our readers about anything new (events, product/service launches, expansion, etc.
As a hairstylist in my salon I get to interact with different people all day. I provide them with good custom or/ and creative hair, while listening to specific needs. But I also love to know more about my clients and their lifestyles, I love to know how the hair transformation fits into their lives, personalities and daily routines . Although I would say I love the creativity aspect of what I do, i truly enjoy giving every single client a soothing an invigorating scalp massage at the shampoo area. It is also a quiet time for me to take a few deep breaths and enjoy the aromatherapy:)
To give an idea of our salon, is a 3 chair space that offers a great atmosphere, maintaining a calm and relaxed environment where everyone can enjoy a good conversation without excessive noise. But the creativity still flows through our daily work and our photo shoot days. We started as a 5 chair salon and we have shifted into keeping smaller and intimate. But who knows, we would love for our close-nit culture to be contagious and we are not opposed to growth !
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
• What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
In my industry showing off your strengths always wins. Being a good artist is what helps in providing great hair. But In the balance of being a business owner and creative I definitely continue to invest in areas that can help me improve not only in the ways of how to run a business, financial literacy or management, but I also continue my hair education upping my skills in creative ways. At 25 years in this industry and as a hair educator myself, there’s always more to learn and I love to network.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
• If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
One of the qualities to develop that is important to me is, I am always thinking of the end consumer. Our customers are who drive our business in a salon industry. And it is not just service satisfaction. It is about connection and an experience. Always considering how did we make them feel? Did we truly listen to their needs? Did u make their time special? Are they happy with the results? How can I make it better next time?
A second quality important to me is to be adaptable. Understanding that the market and business changes constantly. Knowing that when things are out of my control we have to be flexible and pivot on our ideas and strategies. Sometimes the changes in our business are scary, knowing what to do during and before those times come is key. But most importantly being able to adapt and act effectively on any situation.
And third, maintaining integrity. When working with people as a team or with customers alike, staying ethical and building trust is one of the most important elements in my business. My credibility, transparency and accountability are essential when having to face difficult situations. But during my time as an owner, being consistent, Javi g a good attitude, being fair and trying to be a role model, continually build my understanding and attention to detail. I look for ways to make positive changes and strengthen my integrity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Theportalsalon.com
- Instagram: @theportalsalon
- Other: @nancyfuchshair
Image Credits
Nancy Fuchs
Marinna Griego
Cody Fuchs
