You’re a Beautician, Not a Mathematician. Well, Not Anymore.
Jill Krahn is a dynamic force in the beauty industry, wearing multiple hats with grace and expertise. As a cosmetologist, salon owner, school operator, and industry advocate, Jill's dedication and passion shine through in every role she undertakes. Her journey in the beauty world has been marked by innovation, community focus, and a commitment to education and financial literacy.
A Unique Approach to Salon Operations
Jill owns a hybrid salon and day spa in Fargo, North Dakota, which offers diverse services including a med spa. What sets her salon apart is its innovative compensation structure designed to accommodate the varied needs of her staff. Recognizing that beauty professionals are at different life stages with unique requirements, she offers four types of pay structures:
Hourly Pay: For new graduates to ensure financial stability as they build their clientele.
Commission Structure: For those ready to move beyond hourly pay, offering growth based on performance.
Flexible Program for Young Moms: Tailored for single mothers needing flexible hours to balance work and family.
Independent Stylists: Operating under one roof with centralized services to streamline operations and ensure compliance with tax laws.
This flexibility ensures that all employees, regardless of their personal circumstances, have the opportunity to thrive.
The Celebration Center: A Community Hub
Jill's salon also features a unique celebration center called The Grotto, complete with a martini bar and connections to a local restaurant. This event center has hosted numerous celebrations, including weddings and graduation parties, making it a vibrant part of the community. During the challenging times of 2020, it became a popular venue for smaller, intimate weddings, showcasing Jill's adaptability and commitment to providing memorable experiences.
The Power of Education: Opening a Beauty School
Faced with recruitment challenges, Jill decided to open her own beauty school in Fargo. Her goal was to provide a comprehensive education that went beyond the basics, ensuring students were well-prepared for their careers. This led to the creation of a new plan, which she presented to Pat Perennial at Redken, resulting in the launch of franchise beauty schools sponsored by Redken and L’Oréal. This initiative has significantly improved the quality of beauty education and provided a steady stream of well-trained professionals for her salon.
Integrating Financial Literacy into the Curriculum
One of Jill's key passions is financial literacy. Understanding the industry's gap in this area, she has integrated financial education into her school's curriculum. Utilizing tools like Qnity’s community and money programs, Jill ensures her students and staff understand the financial aspects of their careers. This education includes managing income, understanding the importance of work-life balance, and planning for financial goals such as buying a car or a home.
Balancing Culture and Operations
Jill's approach to managing her salon and school emphasizes a strong culture of support and growth. By combining her expertise with the operational insights of her twin sister and business partner, she has created an environment where staff and students can thrive. The duo's complementary skills—Jill's focus on culture and her sister's on data and operations—ensure a balanced, well-rounded approach to running their business.
Empowering Single Mothers in the Industry
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by single mothers, Jill has developed specific programs to support them. This includes flexible work schedules and tailored financial education, helping single mothers balance their careers and family responsibilities. Her efforts highlight the importance of providing a supportive work environment that accommodates the diverse needs of beauty professionals.
A Legacy of Passion and Innovation
Jill Krahn's contributions to the beauty industry extend far beyond her roles as a salon owner and school operator. Her commitment to financial literacy, innovative salon management, and community engagement has made a lasting impact. By continually striving to "better our best," Jill exemplifies the spirit of innovation and dedication that drives the beauty industry forward.
