Business Research Leads to New Direction for Joan

Joan McCabe (63), from Newtownards is proof that you are never too old to learn something new, to change direction, or to add a new string to your bow.   Joan’s research and bid for knowledge whilst planning to extend her business took her on a new course.

Proprietor of the Bronzing Room, a tanning salon in Ashbury Avenue, Bangor, Joan said, “It was during lockdown that I decided that I needed to do something to keep my mind active, so I completed several Microsoft courses. I also enrolled on the NVQ Level 2 and then Level 3 in Beauty Therapy at SERC.  This was primarily to learn about the industry in order to expand our business to include beauty treatments."

She added, “I loved my experience at the College, interacting with the younger generation and learning all about anatomy and physiology – it was all new to me and it took me a while to get my head around it.   I loved the practical classes - both giving and receiving treatments – it was so therapeutic, and my Tutor, Lynn Hamill-Fitzpatrick was fantastic. She encouraged me all the time, even when I felt too old to be doing the subject."

Joan continued, “I have taken a small step back to allow my Manager to take more control, as I would like to retire in a year or so. I mainly look after the accounts, manage the staff, and I am responsible for all the beauty treatments. The best part of my job is seeing a client taking time to look after themselves, leaving the salon feeling relaxed and de-stressed following a lovely treatment."

She continued, "My business is primarily a tanning salon with a beauty room.   It is a competitive industry which depends on returning customers. Customer service is paramount in our industry, so it is important to research everything, check out the competition and be competitive.  We use top quality products and strive to ensure our customers have a great experience."

“When I enrolled for the Level 2 beauty course it was never my intention to be a beauty therapist, all I wanted was to have some knowledge about the industry and take on a therapist. I never imagined how much I would enjoy doing the treatments and learning about beauty until I came to SERC, particularly during the Level 3 course as I learned so much from Lynn. I looked forward to going into college each day. I loved every minute and was even a little lost when the course finished."

Joan concluded, “I learnt a lot at the College, but most importantly I learnt that you are never too old to learn new skills or to change career path. Just be open-minded and be prepared to learn.”

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