Modern Barber sat down with Natalie Cresswell, our 2023 Business Leader of the Year, to ask what it takes to run a business…
In the world of barbering, where competition is fierce, Natalie Cresswell’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable, and winning Best Business Leader at the Modern Barber Awards 2023 marked a personal triumph: “I really didn’t think I was going to win it. There are so many amazing barbers and business owners in this industry. Winning was surreal, and it still doesn’t feel real now. That’s the imposter syndrome kicking in.” She remains grounded when it comes to being successful, “We’re small but we’re mighty and I’ve always said that you don’t have to have loads of shops to be a success – sometimes even I forget that.”
When it comes to leadership, Natalie’s approach is shaped by a commitment to creating a positive and respectful work environment. She has built a business where the team and clients enjoy a positive atmosphere and energy. “I wanted to be someone that people could appreciate and respect, and I wanted to do it while appreciating and respecting myself,” she says. When asked what she thinks makes a good business leader, Natalie tells us: “The best tip I can give is try to stay human, keep looking for things to keep you motivated, and never get too comfortable. It all depends on what you’re trying to put across to your team and your clients – what do you want them to think about your brand and more importantly yourself,” she says, adding that it’s important to have fun.
“When it comes to my team they’re very diverse. Everyone comes from different types of backgrounds, different financial settings, different family settings. Some have children, some don’t,” she tells us, adding that an important part of her role is to try and be a peacemaker: “It’s difficult being a boss because you feel like you’re in the middle all the time. My guys bicker constantly, as I imagine every team does when they’re in each other’s space all the time. You’re spending more time with these people than you are your own family.”
For Natalie it’s about giving people your time and showing that you genuinely care. “I think being a good business leader is just showing love. I like to think that my clients and my team know how much I love them and how much I care about them and how much I appreciate their dedication and hard work, and their loyalty to my shop and my brand. Because without them it would be nothing.”
Any tips for aspiring business leaders? “If you’re going to open your own place make sure it’s definitely what you want. I went into it naively, I just thought sod it, I’m going to open a shop. I’m going to wing it,” Natalie reveals, adding that although she feels she’s been winging it for a long time she wouldn’t stop anyone from doing it ‘on a whim’ but understanding the hard work and money required is important. “If you open a shop, you need to recognise that you’re opening a shop to run a business, so you want it to succeed.” What this means for Natalie is understanding when to step away from the chair. “I was working six days a week when I first opened, and now I work three days behind the chair and three days at home.”
Understanding the art of delegation has been essential to not only maintaining her business but also her mental health, “With growth comes delegating some of the work. I don’t have a business partner and being frightened to let go of control is a big one for a lot of people running their own business, but it will help you further your career.”
Looking to the future, Natalie aims to continue her involvement in charitable initiatives, as well as a fresh brand identity. With a new online store on the horizon and plans for franchising, Natalie’s journey is a testament to her adaptability, and passion that defines a successful business leader.