Provided below is my interview with Ash, a nail tech from East Van:

The Interview

Question 1:  Can you explain your roles and responsibilities with your current position?

Response 1: Of course! So in my current position, I am completely self-employed and run my own business in my basement. This is very beneficial to me as I am able to make up my own schedule around appointments that I get. I really depend on my clients to be punctual as this aspect became somewhat worrisome to me however it’s been alright as I charge a late cancellation fee. As far as my responsibilities, I always sustain a certain quality control and make sure that when clients come into my space everything is sanitized and a safe and inviting space.

Question 2: What obstacles have you faced to get you where you are today?

Response 2: One of the most challenging obstacles I faced was actually purchasing all my equipment to make everything happen. This took me quite a while to acquire all the money with only a little help from my parents. it’s something that I’m very passionate about and for that, I put my mind to it and raised enough money.

Question 3: What advice would you pass on to someone interested in what you are doing?

Response 3: One piece of advice that I would lend to someone interested in nail art is to take different courses and perfect your practice as it would be much easier to sell your product. Everyone starts somewhere and you’ll be bad in the beginning, it’s inevitable. However, staying invested in your craft enhances your final product to another level.

Question 4: Why are you passionate about your job or role?

Response 4: Its something I’ve always been interested in especially since my mom shared some of her old memories of being a nail tech as well. My mom really inspired me but also another part is about my love for having nails on myself. I feel it really adds to my character and builds confidence and if I can offer that service to other people I equally feel accomplished in myself.

Question 5: Do you see yourself in the future still pursuing nail artistry?

Response 5: A loaded question. In the future, I don’t see myself pursuing this full time however as a side gig is more reasonable. As for my full-time job I haven’t given it much thought as currently, I’m in a good position however I see myself pursuing something in the cooking industry.

Question 6: Final question, what is your biggest accomplishment in your job?

Response 6: One of my biggest accomplishments was the first client I ever had which was someone from my high school who was interested in my skills and was the first time I had earned money from doing something that I love. My first client still comes to me to this day every 3 weeks and i feel connected to her in a special way. Being able to be comfortable in my own space was such a big accomplishment for me.

I learned that pursuing something that you enjoy doing is more effective and more ethical as you become invested in learning more and perfecting your practice. In conclusion i believe that i also want to pursue something I enjoy even though i enjoy the artistry around nail art i might not like doing it which is completely fine.