Huffington Post had an interesting interview with Birch Box founders Hayley Barna and Katia Beauchamp. It's interesting to see behind the curtain some of the experiences that helped shape the company.
On how life experiences have made them the leaders they are today?
Katia: I was really raised by my mother. She always encouraged me to talk about how I felt, and to realize it's not about what other people do to you; it's how you interpret things. Both as a leader and on a personal level, I learned how to take ownership of my emotions; it was in my control to be happy and to own my career path.
Hayley: I was a science geek in high school and doing independent science research was a helpful skill. It gave me the confidence to know that I could not only ask questions but I could also test things and find answers. It gave me confidence that I could be 17-years-old and contribute to science. My family was also an influence. My family has a family business and I was exposed to business conversations at the dinner table my whole life.
On highlights and challenges at Birchbox?
Katia: One of our biggest milestones happened just recently with the announcement of the opening of the first physical Birchbox retail store. It is such an exciting time as we are breaking away from the traditional brick-and-mortar-lite formula of developing a showroom for our online platform and instead creating a full-blown shopping and lifestyle "experience." On the other end, hiring and building a great team is the most challenging aspect but also the most rewarding. Looking up every day and seeing the incredible group at Birchbox inspires me to work harder and do justice to the idea and the team.
Hayley: One of the biggest challenges we faced early on was being able to see the bigger picture; it took us quite a while to realize that building a business is a marathon and not a sprint. In the early days, the intensity and stress level of our work was through the roof -- very little sleep, not much personal time. By building a team of talented people we have been able to find more balance and focus on the issues that matter most. Katia and I both agree that one of the greatest rewards in this journey has been building the Birchbox team and providing them a challenging and exciting environment to put their skills to work.
On Birchbox shaking up the beauty industry?
Katia: Birchbox has changed the way women and men shop for beauty, grooming and lifestyle products. We inspire new demand for products by making the shopping process both delightful and efficient. We do this by sending consumers customized boxes of samples while pairing it with personalized information on the site.
Hayley: Birchbox's discovery retail model introduced a new way for consumers to shop and discover new products online. This has enabled less-confident consumers to learn about products on their own time in the privacy of their own home. It has also allowed brands, both big and small, to connect with engaged and interested customers. We're growing the size of the beauty market by creating these connections.
On advice for those want to start their own business?
Katia: If you work hard, ask questions, and learn from every opportunity, you are going to have a fulfilling journey in your career. Be thoughtful of the people you work for including your manger. Find someone who is open and respects you. It makes work more enjoyable and gives you the opportunity to learn. Choose your manager over your industry. It is also highly important to remember to enjoy building your career. And yes, go to happy hour!
Hayley: In an early stage business, the most valuable thing you can do is learn. Always know what your top three priorities are and focus your limited resources on making progress in those areas. Any investment of time or money that doesn't help you get closer to an answer for your top questions or focus areas shouldn't be made. Do things yourself, whenever possible, and that way you'll learn more. Focus is key, and it should be directed at your customers and the product you're building to serve them.
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