Janellè Price is a Chicago native who is not scared to pack a bag and catch a flight to a whole new area code. She is the eldest of nine so having to lead by example is something she knows well. After a sort stint at the University of Missouri-Columbia, Janellè moved to Houston, Texas to rethink her current life plan. It was there she decided to move back home to Chicago to pursue her true passion, the beauty industry. She has since become a licensed cosmetologist and part-time model. She recently finished school for esthetics and is currently securing her enrollment status for a science degree with a focus in chemistry.
Read what she has to say.
How did you arrive at this career choice? Was it a deliberate decision or a gradual and natural evolution?
My career as a licensed professional in the beauty industry evolved on it’s own. I was always very passionate about the field but didn’t know that it could be a long-withstanding career path with so many different outlets.
What separates you from others in your field? What is unique to the experience that you create?
What separates me from others in my field is my wide skill set. I have and will continue to evolve in my craft through continued education.
For those considering entering this arena, what skill sets do you recommend mastering? What traits are most conducive to success?
I recommend mastering customer service, if you are not a people pleaser then the beauty industry is not for you. The customer is always right even when they are wrong.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?
I stay at the leading edge of my craft by always studying, always researching what is to come and adapting what I learn to my current skill set.
Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about what you do? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
I would say a misconception that I had was that my only choice was to work in a salon but with this career choice there are many different avenues to specialize in. You could do anything from working with film and theatre, to being a manufacturer or distributor of beauty products, to an educator, or salon owner. The possibilities are infinite.
How do you map out your goals? How do you measure your success?
I map out my goals by creating a list of where I would like to be in 3-, 5- and 10-year increments. I measure my success by referring back to the list frequently to see what I have accomplished and have yet to check off.
Who do you consider to be your peers in your field? Who do you see/use as examples for you to emulate?
I consider everyone that does what I do to be my peers, from people that I know personally to those that I don’t. We may all be on different levels but I believe that nothing is too great to accomplish. I use people who are my age that are very successful as examples for me to emulate. It motivates me to see that someone in my age group could work hard and achieve anything based on their own merit.
Name two of your top role models: one from your industry and one from outside of it.
My top role model in my industry is Kellon Deryck, he is amazing at extensions and color. My top priorities when it comes to hair. My role model outside of my industry is my father. He has taught me everything that I know, and even the things I never wanted to listen to have a place in my journey today.
Name three books, works, performances or exhibits that changed how you view life and/or yourself.
The Isis Papers by Dr. Frances Cress-Welsing, The Circle by Dave Eggers, and Native Son by Richard Wright
Why do you consider continued learning important?
I consider continuing education important so that you can always stay on top of your craft. We live in a world that is changing rapidly and to be the best you have to always have your finger on the pulse of creativity and innovation.
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
“A beautiful flower begins it’s life in the dirt”- which means to me that no matter where you come from, no matter what trials and tribulations you may face, you can always come out on top.
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
Technology helps me to stay relevant. I use it heavily to market myself and to stay in touch with what is popular to potential and current clients.
What software, app or other technological innovation has made the biggest difference in your life and/or career?
Instagram and the ability to build my own website with sites like Wix. It puts the power of your brand directly into your hands and you are able to reach your clients directly and personally with social media sites like Instagram.
Please define your personal brand.
My personal brand represents being professional in any setting. Striving to provide top quality products and services, always being in the know of new techniques and industry advancements, and being the go to for the industry.
What is your favorite vacation destination and why?
My favorite vacation destination is somewhere where there is plenty of sun, good food, good people, and positive vibes.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
I would change economic disparity. I think we all deserve to live comfortably.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would change my impatience. I am learning that everything takes time and happens when it should.
What does it take to be iconic? In your estimation, who has achieved that status?
To be iconic you must build and brand something that can transcend generations, it is to stay relevant forever.
What keeps you inspired?
What keeps me inspired is waking up everyday. I see life as a beautiful gift that I am blessed to unwrap each time I open my eyes.
How do you stay connected with fans?
Through social media.
Where did you vacation this summer?
Las Vegas. DC at the end of July. Houston and San Diego and LA to come before the summer ends.
How are you spending the holiday?
I might catch a flight.
