With over 30 years in the beauty industry, Andrea Clark specializes in Trichology, the science of hair and scalp, helping those who suffer from hair loss.
What’s your story?
I have been in the hair and beauty industry for over 30 years. Originally from Melbourne Australia, I am a stylist, educator, and now a Trichologist. Trichology is a profession that has been around for over 100 years and I was inspired by the late, renowned Trichologist Philip Kingsley. Trichology? It is the science of hair and scalp. Having had hair shedding problems myself for many years, I am very empathetic of anyone suffering from hair loss due to many different things. With a holistic approach, I provide support reassurance. I delve into the root cause, pardon the pun and offer advice and possible solutions. True empathy is what clients benefit from when visiting me.
What excites you most about your industry?
How diverse my industry is. I work in an industry within an industry. Hairstyling and Trichology within a spa within a 5-star hotel environment. I meet the most incredible people and hear the most wonderful tales. Keep secrets and calm even the most stressed clients and in this busy city as we know…it is hard to remain balanced.
What’s your connection to Asia?
First port of travel for most Australians is Asia for obvious reasons. It was the Mandarin Oriental Hotel group who brought me here as a hairstylist in 2007, then promoted me to the manager of a whole department, the salon, within their iconic flagship hotel. They also allowed me to go off and study Trichology. A comprehensive 2-year course with The International Association of Trichologists.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
It is Hong Kong. I was embraced by her and feel that in a short time I have established myself, grown and set a path to a new exciting chapter in my career through the support of a network of fellow amazing motivated people here.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Don’t wake up today and wish you started to follow your dreams a year ago. Don’t procrastinate, act.
Who inspires you?
My mother. The most gentle, kind person I know but strong and still working as a nurse at 82. Still encouraging everything I do she is not just my inspiration. She is admired and inspires many.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
I have learnt how to use my instincts, how to strengthen my intuition. I have an amazing friend and mentor who was my life coach for a few years. Intuitive counselling we called or sessions. I use it a lot… of course, I always draw upon my common sense and life experience too … whilst asking the universe to lend a helping hand.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I wouldn’t spend as long on ‘dead wood’ or no-win situations. That could mean relationships, both business and personal.
How do you unwind?
I have a nice meal and wine with friends. A massage is my favourite as my work is very tactile so I need this…. particularly my feet. Recently I took up yoga and have done weight training to strengthen my mind body and core for years.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Most recently Cambodia, Siem Riep. When I relax, I like to have good food and have interesting places to explore as well. Warm weather and the especially warm people of this city made for a wonderful experience -a new must go again destination for me.
Everyone in business should read this book:
What they don’t teach you at Harvard Business school By Mark H McCormack
Shameless plug for your business:
The most passionate explorer of Hair loss solutions in this city.
How can people connect with you?
By contacting the Mandarin Salon at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Hong Kong +852 28254800
Or
[email protected]
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This interview is part of the ‘Callum Connect’ series of more than 500 interviews
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder of The Marketing Group PLC. He is the author two best selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’ and ‘Agglomerate’.
Connect with Callum here: twitter.com/laingcallum linkedin.com/in/callumlaing Download free copies of his books here: www.callumlaing.com
