Susan Routledge welcomes Helen Portman Brooks, known as the Beauty Brand Connector. Helen shares her unique journey from beauty therapist to freelance business development manager and trainer, highlighting her passion for connecting smaller brands with industry professionals who need their products. The conversation delves into Helen's early career, her transition into sales, and the importance of community and collaboration within the beauty industry. She emphasises the significance of trusting one's instincts and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive peers. Listeners will gain insights into the evolving landscape of beauty entrepreneurship and the importance of personalised approaches in business development. KEY TAKEAWAYS Trust Your Instincts: It's important to listen to your gut feelings when making career decisions. Following your instincts can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths. Embrace Community: Surrounding yourself with a supportive network is crucial. Collaboration and connection with others in the industry can provide valuable insights and encouragement. Flexibility in Business: The ability to adapt and be flexible in your work schedule allows for a better work-life balance. It's essential to prioritise personal time while managing business responsibilities. Tailored Business Solutions: Each salon or beauty business is unique, and it's vital to customise solutions based on their specific needs rather than adhering to a one-size-fits-all approach. BEST MOMENTS "I think trusting your gut instinct is a big one... It's all just been, you know, I've turned left instead of turning right. You know, I should have been turning right every time and I've gone left for some reason and it's worked." - Helen "I always like to say, you know, there's enough work for everyone. You can help everyone... It's just, and, you know, you can help everyone." - Susan "I think there's more of a pull back to being connected with people than ever before. And people are really needing it more, more so than ever." - Helen "I want it to be a success for the brand, for the business and for my own brand as well. So it's really important that we get it right." - Helen HOST BIO Susan Routledge is a distinguished figure in the beauty industry with over 38 years of experience. As a multi-award-winning salon owner and international business consultant, she's recognized among the top UK industry influencers for her passion and dedication. Known for her down-to-earth, light-hearted approach, Susan is an international speaker and established awards judge. She founded the exclusive Beauty Directors Club, a global membership community for salon, clinic, and spa owners, offering business resources and multi-expert advice. Susan also created the online "Salon Success Freedom" program to help beauty businesses thrive. Susan founded and has grown her clinic of 36 years in Co. Durham into the largest independent beauty salon in Northeast England. She is the creator of the trademarked STABLE business formula and author of "The Little Book of Client Retention" and the world's No. 1 bestsellers "Beauty And the Best" 1 and 2. She serves on the Professional Board for BABTAC, helping to represent and raise industry standards, and on the advisory board for the prestigious PHAB Service Stars. Susan's expertise continues to shape and elevate the beauty industry worldwide. USEFUL LINKS https://susanroutledge.com https://www.instagram.com/susan_routledge/ https://www.tiktok.com/@beautybusinessmatters https://marketing.susanroutledge.com/beauty-and-the-best-chapters This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

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