Meet Nicole C.

Since joining her franchised location team five years ago, Nicole C. has grown a lot in her career. She started as a Front Desk Associate and a couple titles later is now a Lead Esthetician and Manager Assistant. She's passionate about expanding her knowledge in the skin care field. Nicole attended Massage Envy's Annual Franchise Conference in Orlando, Florida, as the Connecticut region's Esthetician of the Year, for three days of workshops, hands-on training with Massage Envy's skin care brand partners, and leadership training.

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.

When did you decide to pursue a career in skin care? 
My interest in skin care started during high school while I was struggling with acne. I was interested in trying new products in hopes of finding a solution for my skin. I realized I was spending a lot of time researching skin conditions, product ingredients in all things beauty related, and what was best for each skin type. That is when I decided a career in skin care would benefit me both professionally and personally.

Describe your experience at skin care school. What did you like about it?
The hands-on approach to learning is what I enjoyed most about school. Being able to perform services on classmates while learning was unlike any previous educational experience I'd had.

What excites you most about working at your Massage Envy franchised location?
The constant change excites me most. When I first joined my franchised location team five years ago, we offered only four different types of facials. Since then, our team has been able to expand our knowledge in the skin care industry and our location offers advanced services such as chemical peels and Microderm Infusion™ treatments. These new services have made a huge difference in my ability to help my clients reach their skin care goals. Client happiness means everything!

When was the last time you felt especially proud about the work that you do?
At Christmas time last year, one of my clients sent me a beautiful card wishing me well for the holidays and explaining to me the difference I have made in her life with not only her skin, but how I helped her get through a terrible loss in her family. Knowing that I have made an impact in her life and helped her through a hard time makes me feel extremely grateful to be able to do what I do.

"In the next few years, I hope to still be with the Massage Envy brand and to continue learning as much as I can to excel in my position. I hope to continue seeing the same clients and acquiring new ones, while helping everyone achieve their skin care goals."

What excites you about the next couple of years in your career?
In the next few years, I hope to still be with the Massage Envy brand and to continue learning as much as I can to excel in my position. I hope to continue seeing the same clients and acquiring new ones, while helping everyone achieve their skin care goals. 

When are you happiest at work?
I am happiest when I'm in the treatment room with my clients. Whether they are there to relax that day or want to chat and catch up during their service, I am glad that they've chosen to spend that time with me and trust me to help them achieve their skin care goals.

What's the best part about what you do? 
The best thing about what I do is building the relationships I have with my clients.

"A Massage Envy franchised location makes it possible to start a stable and consistent career in skin care."

Why should somebody consider working at a Massage Envy franchised location and building their career there?
A Massage Envy franchised location makes it possible to start a stable and consistent career in skin care. It doesn't just stop in the treatment room either! There is so much room for growth within this ever-changing company.

How did you find out you won the Esthetician of the Year award and what was it like going to conference? 
My franchisee surprised me in the lobby at the end of my shift with balloons and a congratulatory banner. She wrote a beautiful letter detailing our time at work together, as well as testimonials from a few of my clients. The experience at conference was more than I ever expected. Everything was grand and thoroughly executed. The attention that was given to honor massage therapists and estheticians by conference attendees and corporate employees was uplifting and gave me a sense accomplishment.

What's the best part about living in Rhode Island? Tell us something about it that others outside the state might not know.
The best part about living in Rhode Island is the summer. We are surrounded by the ocean and spoiled with beautiful beaches and seafood! We may be the smallest state, but we have so much to offer. The state capital, Providence, is well known to "foodies" and is overflowing with incredible restaurants.

What are your favorite hobbies and interests outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy doing my part to make the world a better place! I like to encourage my family to "go green" by reducing their carbon footprint and recycling. I enjoy building relationships and effectively communicating with others. I like to be outside whenever the weather is nice with my golden retriever, Enzo.