Tom Smith joins the Respectfully podcast host Nicky Pope for a conversation about having a portfolio career in hairdressing! They chat about how to find a great balance in what you pursue including session styling, salon work and being a brand ambassador. Tom shared his views on working with the owner of a salon to create a mutually rewarding way of running a client list while undertaking roles away from the salon. As an educator, innovator and sessionista with many calls on his time, Tom has great advice. Growing a massive Instagram following has been important in creating his personal brand. And, Tom also explains to Nicky how he has carved out a reputation for trends forecasting.
Tom Smith: A varied career
Tom Smith trained with Vidal Sassoon – where he initially focussed on being a colourist. He credits his time at the company with his discipline and understanding of taking a holistic view of each client service such as considering the texture of hair at all times. Going on to practice cutting skills to balance his considerable technical knowhow on colour, Tom now is more than competent to deliver a complete service on all hair types. Based for the past 13 years or so at Billi Currie salon in central London, Tom is able to purse a his ‘portfolio’ style hairdressing career thanks to the open-minded and supportive attitude of his bosses Billi and his wife Debbie Gee.
Tom tells the Respectfully podcast how he has become interested in product innovation – being one of the first adopters, and ambassador, for Olaplex. He has also been working with the Australian brand Evo, and travels extensively delivering education around the world.
Find out more
Follow Tom on his Instagram: @tomsmithhd
For the Billi Currie salon, follow @billicurrie
Click to see our feature on his trends forecasting HERE
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For more of the latest industry news, click HERE.
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