Women of Vision is a series of interviews with business women we admire. Visionary women are accessible and inspirational to others in daily life as mentors, friends, advisers, and role models. As part of our Women of vision series, we want to highlight the professional challenges and career aspirations of the women working here in Ireland. This doesn’t require a certain business title, specific wardrobe, or special permission. Women in Ireland have a strong entrepreneurial spirit: the rate of female early stage entrepreneurs in Ireland is the 5th highest in Europe. The agility and resilience of women in business in recent times has been a testament to their strength and courage.
Tell us a bit about you?
My name is Amy. I opened my salon 6 years ago when I moved back from London, something I had wanted to do since I was a Saturday girl. I love to work hard and play hard , try to also to get a good work life balance
Tell us about your business?
I have a hair salon , Amy Michelle Hairdressing, just outside the city. There are seven of us working there including myself. We provide all aspects of Hairdressing. We aren’t just work colleagues, we are all genuine friends as well, which I think shows up in our work . We have won numerous awards throughout the years which is a very special feeling and keeps us motivated.
I have my own luxury extension brand called Refine, which we use in the salon.
Have you always been entrepreneurial?
I think I have always been entrepreneurial since I was about sixteen I have always wanted my own salon and to work for myself. It’s part of my spirit I think.
If any, what challenges have you experienced as a woman in business during your overall career?
Honestly I absolutely love the flexibility of having my own business, working hard if I need to (after lockdowns etc) or cutting back to part time during the summer months. I love managing people, helping people and giving advice when needed. Definitely covid reopenings were the biggest challenge for me , rearranging things for social distancing, re rostering so not too many people would be in the salon at one time and training staff up on the ever changing government guidelines. All while trying to rearrange all our lovely clients.
What are the most important things to progressing as the owner of a business?
I think the most important values and characteristics of a business owner are being approachable, flexible and mostly understanding . Find out what motivates your team and work alongside them not above them.
What has been the most significant thing you have done to grow your business?
We all keep up to date with the latest trends through alot of education. I think this has been to most significant thing yo grow the business as the customers put their trust in our knowledge
What is your number 1 tip for anyone struggling to overcome entrepreneurial overwhelm and keep going?
My advice for an overwhelmed entrepreneur is to keep going . It takes time but it does get easier , or maybe you learn to live with the ups and downs . Be prepared for all situations (ie we never expected covid) . Look after your finances, a good accountant is worth their weight in gold and it takes one stress away from you. Remember why you did it in the first place . Surround yourself with positive people. And most importantly look after yourself, take your day off , book yourself that holiday and enjoy the rollercoaster

By Mary-Jane O’Regan