Editor’s note: If you’ve cracked open your December issue, you’ve probably seen the latest installment of questions and answers from “The Manicurist.” In her real life, this tough-talker is Bulls Gap, Tenn.-based salon owner Rebecca Seals. We asked her to introduce herself to our readers in her own words.

Hi, I’m The Manicurist, a salon owner/operator and current writer for NAILS. You may have read some of my articles in the April, September, or December issues of NAILS in the business section. Some people think that my attitude is a bit sharp and unforgiving, and some have said my responses can feel almost rude when I am referring to your clients’ faux-pas. Their summations would be 100% correct. I’m in this for the nail tech and I am determined to seek the respect that all nail techs deserve.

Twenty years ago, I only intended to do nails until I got a license to do hair. By the time I obtained my cosmetology license, my appointment book was filled with nail appointments. So not only did I think it’d be rather stupid of me not to stick with it, I’d fallen in love with nails!

I’ve spent countless hours in this business holding hands with martyrs, teachers, leaders, followers, movers, shakers, bores, bigots, snoots, coots, and friends. You get the picture. When you have a problem with a client, contact me, and I’ll tell you exactly how to handle any situation with grace, panache, and authority. Sometimes, the only way to handle a selfish and overbearing client is with candor, and that’s where my help comes in.

I hope to extend my insight and expertise to help you with situations in the salon pertaining to employees and employers. When it comes to employers, I’ve seen them all, and when it comes to employees, I’ve fired them all. So don’t be afraid to let my experiences help you to gain perspective and conquer problems inside the salon, even before a worrisome client arrives. Feel free to send The Manicurist any of your questions dealing with any salon issues.

Don’t ever forget, you are a licensed, professional, caring, and successful business person who is worthy of respect from every patron that walks through the door. There are many charming, gracious, and engaging clients who respect our profession and make our workday pleasurable, but when you’ve been mistreated by the other type, let me know. I’ll teach you how to handle them.