Name: Carmindy
Age: 46
Job Title and Description: Beauty Enabler
College Name/Major: Life
Website: carmindy.com
Twitter Handle: CarmindyBeauty
Instagram Handle: CarmindyBeauty
What does your current job entail?
C: Is there such a thing as a typical day? I’ve never had a typical day. Each day is totally different. If I’m working on a photo shoot in a studio or on location somewhere exotic I’m able to co-create the story, ad or catalog with everyone. It’s a wonderful collaboration. If I’m doing television, I’m either selling my favorite products or talking about tips and trends. I am currently building a new cosmetic company, so the days I’m not working in fashion, I’m product developing and building my brand. On the weekends, I do private consultations.
What is the best part of your job?
C: Making women feel empowered and self confident.
What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?
C: I was an assistant, and I got the job by walking into an agency in LA and telling them I would work for free just to learn the craft. You must be willing to do anything for nothing when it comes to going after your dream job.
What words of wisdom (well-known quotes, an anecdote from your boss) do you find most valuable?
C: I made my own up at a young age, which was “Create Your Own Destiny” because I didn’t want anyone telling me what I could or could not do. I knew it would be up to me to go after my dreams. Nobody is going to hand it to you.
What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?
C: Once, when I was assisting, I got a little ahead of myself and gave the photographer we were working with my card. The makeup artist I was working for didn’t like that very much. I learned that patience is key and letting things evolve instead of forcing things too quickly is the best way to move forward.
What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?
C: Too many to count. I’m very blessed to have a job that has given me so many moments that have taken my breath away.
What do you look for when considering hiring someone?
C: A serious can-do attitude, willing to take direct directions without having to be coddled and someone who is quick to help make things easier without direction.
What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?
C: You must pay your dues. There are no short-cuts. It takes time to master your craft before you succeed. Success that comes to people fast who are not prepared will go away as quickly.
What’s the one thing that’s stood out to you the most in a resume?
C: The cover letter of why a girl wanted to work with me was 100 times better than her resume, and I hired her based on that, then trained her. She is still with me to this day.