It's tough sometimes because you have to be on top of everything at once, but becoming light-hearted makes you walk lighter through life.
Q & A With Founder, CEO & Phi Grand Master at Soft Touch Studio, Taiyaba Saleem
How did you come up with the idea to start Soft Touch Studio, and what purpose did you intend to serve with the concept?
I got an honours degree in Fine Arts and had a background in medical aesthetics, so when I immigrated to Canada, I saw the industry opportunities; I had also got to meet Branko (beauty innovator and founder of Phiacademy) at this time. I decided to take a risk and worked very hard, because I dreamt of owning my own place and helping others become their best versions.
Which milestones have marked meeting benchmarks towards the fulfillment of your personal goals/ the company's vision and goals?
I worked my way up through the Phi Academy's ranks and Artist Titles until I earned the highest one; I have recently earned rank as Canada’s first Phi Grand Master. In addition, I have been honoured in winning the Top Choice Award for best Beauty Clinique, twice.
Which steps have you taken for the company to achieve the level of consumer trust that has been nationally recognized?
The steps I have taken foremost include offering great attention to customers and giving great services, as well as communicating efficiently with each client to achieve their desired results. I ensure executed procedures are of high quality and that they deliver gorgeous results! I have also expanded my social media brand-presence and name, while collaborating with great team players and artists. Now, I have started to teach my techniques, as well.
What part of your education or other experiences do you feel was the most helpful in preparing you for success?
I specialized in many techniques by studying a lot, getting a bunch of certifications, doing a lot of trainings, and graduating from the Micropigmentation Centre; I did this to perfect my craft until I mastered it in all of those techniques. To master a wide range of techniques, I broadened my skills in eyebrows, lips, skin, scalp, eyes and lashes.
Which strategies have you found the most effective in growing your audience/ bringing awareness of your service to a larger consumer group?
Social media (especially, Instagram and Facebook) is one of the best tools. Traveling to impart live workshops and collaborating with others is another good strategy. In addition, assisting for events, while networking and doing a little bit of everything, has been useful, too.
IG: @phibrows_taiyaba_master
FB: Soft Touch Studio - Taiyaba Saleem
YT: Soft Touch Studio
TW: @TaiyabaSaleem
Pinterest: pmubusinesscoach
Are there any challenges that made it difficult to continue operation and that you managed to overcome? What was your approach to get past these?
Immigration was the first one. Everything was new; I felt like an outsider. However, I met amazing people, and made Canada my home - so much so that I stayed on with my family.
How do you balance work, passions/hobbies, and relationships?
It's tough sometimes because you have to be on top of everything at once, but becoming light-hearted makes you walk lighter through life.
What are your future plans to build on your personal/ company achievements and fulfill your vision for success/ what developments can your audience or clientele look forward to expecting next?
I will be working on new courses and workshops, being more focused on my own projects, and growing my own brands like my phi shop and my phi academy.
What advice would you like to give readers that hope to achieve success in your field?
Invest in your education, study a lot and practice even more! Showcase your work, honestly and boldly, pay attention to what your audience is asking for and what it needs, and use social media smartly.
We thank Taiyaba for sharing these insights and experiences with Winner Magazine's readers. If you are looking for permanent makeup services in the Toronto Area, we would recommend reaching out to Taiyaba at Soft Touch Studio!