We speak with Brenda Gillen, Waxing Specialist, about her 15 years tenure at OFF & ON
We speak with Brenda Gillen, Waxing Specialist, about her 15 years tenure at OFF & ON.
Name: Brenda Gillen
Role: Waxing Specialist
Tenure: 15 years
1. Can you briefly introduce yourself and your role at OFF & ON? How long have you been with the company?
I’m Brenda, I’ve been at OFF & ON for 15 years since the beginning! In my time I’ve worn various hats from Waxer Trainer to Branch Manager and currently working directly with clients as a Waxing Specialist – and I love it.
2. What initially attracted you to work for OFF & ON, and what has kept you here for over years?
I was contacted by the previous owner at the time while I was working for a beauty school as a teacher. I really liked the concept of specialisation. OFF & ON sounded like a great company to work for with the culture and the service and making people feel good.
I was brought on to put the waxing training in place. I trained the team at the time. We were very quiet to begin with, it started in 2008 in the financial crisis. We’ve lasted the last 15 years as we made and make people feel special.
I’ve been here for the past 15 years for the people, the culture and the flexibility. It doesn’t feel like work and it just gets into your blood. I feel super loyal to the company and brand. It’s a part of me.
3. What significant changes or milestones have you witnessed during your time at OFF & ON?
There was a positive change with Skin Institute purchasing OFF & ON but to be honest, we just get on with our day to day as usual. There’s always something new happening and I don’t take it as a disruption and just enjoy going with the flow. I quite enjoy the variety.
4. What do you think sets OFF & ON apart from other companies in the industry, and how has that contributed to its success?
Whether you’re at OFF & ON for injectables or for waxing maintenance, everyone is equal and feel welcome straight away. We know that it can be a luxury getting a wax and so when clients do come to us, we want to make sure that clients receive the best customer experience.
5. As a long time employee, what advice would you give to new hires or those considering a long-term career at OFF & ON?
Come in with an open heart and open mind. Be prepared to learn. Treat people how you want to be treated. We’re not the norm in the beauty industry so come and enjoy our style which means music, casual banter but the best client experience.
6. What do you personally find most rewarding about working at OFF & ON?
It’s the little things.
I’ve enjoyed seeing the growth in my peers who have been working with me since the early days. It’s been amazing watching the team develop in their roles. Some of the team in management roles now were trained on the floor with me and it’s such a celebration to see them going after their goals.
I also feel proud when I read our feedback messages and comments. It’s nice to know our clients are consistently feeling self confident and satisfied after leaving OFF & ON. We are a diverse bunch without any judgement and we also often see diversity within our client base. Everybody is welcome.
7. Lastly, what are you most looking forward to in OFF & ON's future?
Keeping the OFF & ON soul alive!