MENU
SEARCHA Credit to Her Profession: Nail tech Samantha Bassett also works as a debt collector for a credit union.
“There are two types of people: those who can’t pay and those who won’t pay,” says Samantha Bassett. And she should know. In addition to owning a home-based nail salon called Tekhe (the Cornish word for “beautify”), Bassett works as a debt collector for First Credit Union in Hamilton, New Zealand. She stumbled on the job a few years ago after spotting an online want ad. “I thought it sounded extremely interesting, so I applied that night. A week later, I got a call to go in for an interview,” she says. “They were very impressed with my CV and skills. The fact that I had no knowledge of debt collection work did not seem bother them.”
Samantha Bassett
As it turns out, she likes the work. “I enjoy the variety of things I get to do. Not only do I follow up on the current loans that are overdue, I also try to locate and contact old ones that were forgotten about years ago,” she says.
Bassett is aware that most people see debt collection as a bad thing — having to do with repossessions or court actions. And for people who are able to pay but don’t, that may be true. “But for the people who are unable to pay, we are more than happy to try and help them handle their financial burdens by looking at their finances and seeing where they can decrease or increase payments to make it a little bit easier for them,” she says. “We may also ring their other creditors and see if they are able to extend the term to lower their payments.
“A lot of people are embarrassed when it comes to admitting they are facing financial strife. We try to build a good rapport with our members as that leads to trust, then when it comes to asking for help, they find it easier to contact us and admit they are stuck.”
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
