Life and Work with Suzy Noren

Today we’d like to introduce you to Suzy Noren.

Suzy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My background is nursing and medical sales. After the birth of my second child, I thought I would stay home. My husband thought it would be fun to buy a business for me to run. He thought a car wash, sandwich shop to which I said no and no. Then, he found a salon for sale. I thought it sounded like fun since I loved going to salons. So, we bought Salon Surreal (14.5 years ago). It was definitely not the same as just going to a salon. The first two years were very hard (I had a 7-month-old and a four-year-old). Fast forward and I couldn’t be happier with our decision. We have created a culture of positive, talented and caring stylists, estheticians and front desk staff. We are always continuing our education through in and out of salon classes and strive to stay up to date on trends and techniques. I sincerely believe we have the best staff and customers ever!

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not always been smooth sailing. We have a large staff (40) and it is always a challenge to keep the drama at bay. Through the years we have celebrated and grieved together. This has been fun and hard but very bonding. The most important thing I have learned is to keep yourself available to everyone and make sure they are comfortable coming to you with all questions. Always try to listen and not judge. I have learned that open communications are what makes for a happy and healthy workplace. The negativity will weed itself out (sometimes with help). Another important lesson I have learned is you can’t take things personally (very hard) and leave your ego at the door.

Please tell us about Salon Surreal.
We are a full-service salon. We specialize in hair and skin. We do color, cuts, straightening and smoothing for all types of clients. We also specialize in special occasion hair, from wedding to prom. I would say our highlights and color are our hair specialties. We do waxing, facials and peels. Our spa specialty is definitely facials and peels. The most important thing to a great service is a greater consultation. We are constantly perfecting this process. We are known for great scalp massages with the shampooing process. A friendly staff is, of course, a huge plus.

Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
The biggest barrier can be yourself. It is important to have confidence balanced with friendliness. Always ask for what you need and want. Be fair and don’t show favoritism. Lead by example, you can break through a lot of barriers by demonstrating this to everyone.

Contact Info:

• Address: Salon Surreal
  7000 N. 16th Street Ste. 144
  Phoenix, AZ 85020
• Website: www.salonsurreal.com
• Phone: 602.870.9190
• Email: suzynoren@salonsurreal.com
• Instagram: @SalonSurrealPHX
• Facebook: @SalonSurrealPHX
• Twitter: @SalonSurrealPHX

Image Credit:
Tim Noren

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