Since I was a little girl, I have always dreamed of becoming a nurse. My childhood was even spent playing with crutches and medical equipment - I know, pretty weird! A decade later, that dream became a reality when I was accepted into the University of Iowa’s Nursing Program. After four years of learning, I became a Registered Nurse and started my career in the Emergency Room. A few years in, I transitioned to managing Urgent Cares while also helping to build a mobile vaccine business. Along the way, I realized that I enjoy the business side of healthcare as much as I enjoy patient care. Through all my different nursing paths, aesthetics had always been in the back of my mind, finally leading me to my current role as Lab Coordinator at The Confidence Lab. Throughout my career, I’ve explored various areas of nursing, but I finally found where I know I am meant to be. I’m excited to help you explore new educational opportunities that will lead you to success & grow your aesthetics confidence. I learned one of my favorite qualities from my mother — the desire to help others. Whether it’s solving a problem, offering encouragement, or celebrating someone’s success; I feel fulfilled when I can make a difference for you. Watching our attendees gain confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of my role. I am truly dedicated to helping you! I believe that to succeed, we must always be learning. As Lab Coordinator, I’m your go-to person for all things training. It’s my job to help you find the right training for you. Whether it’s identifying your next skillset or guiding you toward the best-suited training, I’m here to support your growth and confidence. I'm especially excited to help organize Confidence Circles and get to celebrate our community with all of you. Can't wait to meet all of you!

Meet our upcoming Confidence Circles Speakers Our Confidence Circles are complimentary gatherings held every 4-6 weeks, designed to bring our aesthetic community together. These events are a chance to learn from guest speakers, share openly, and enjoy a relaxed evening with nibbles and bubbles. We warmly welcome everyone, hoping you’ll find a new home here—a place to connect, collaborate, and build friendships with fellow practitioners seeking a supportive, uplifting network! In 2025, our second year of Confidence Circles promises to bring even more empowerment and encouragement that we all deserve. The speakers we have invited are all insightful and motivated - things we all aspire to be. Bringing together their expertise and celebrating our community here will make this a wonderful year. Preview all our events below and add them to your calendar today! January 16th: Oxidative Stress, Authenticity, & Abundance Mindset with Olivia Kirkpatrick Olivia will educate us on the transformative power of authenticity and abundance mindset - both in our careers and our lives. Get ready to embrace your true self to further your personal and professional journey. She will dive into strategy and her personal journey in cultivating a healthy mindset and overcoming limiting beliefs. Reserve your seat here February 6th: Elevating the Patient Journey with Laura Benarosch We'll delve into the nuances of the patient journey. How we can enhance patient satisfaction through attention to every detail of their journey. You can expect a comprehensive exploration of effective strategies for the patent experience, enriched by Laura's extensive industry knowledge and practical insights. Reserve your seat here February 20th: Weight Loss with Kate Reed Learn from Kate's years of experience as a medical weight loss practitioner. She will cover: patient consultation intake forms and labwork, common medications and their mechanisms of action, adjunct therapies for success, safety issues, staying up to date on practices, and more. Reserve your seat here March 6th: Harmony and Symmetry with Lisa Rivero Lisa has perfected the art of assessing the dominant and non-dominant sides of the face and identifying how external influences contribute to facial aging. Learn practical tips for evaluating asymmetry, understanding the impact of aging on each side of the face, and creating natural, beautiful results through precise, one-sided treatments. Reserve your seat here April 3rd: Event Planning Business with Little Luxuries Need help with your grand opening? Looking to plan a Botox & Bubbles party? We love supporting local, small business and are very excited to connect you with Little Luxuries, a Chicago-based Event Planning Business. Sara, Sarah, and Jacie know that attention to the finer details makes all the difference when hosting an event. Small intentional touches aren't out of reach and can elevate the ambiance to cultivate an event unique to you. Reserve your seat here May 15th: IV Therapy & Concierge Aesthetics with Jectology Danielle Hirtz and Maya Bass bring their expertise in luxury concierge treatments to our Confidence Circles. They will dive into the benefits of IV hydration treatments, which offer a wide range of health benefits, such as boosting energy levels, enhancing skin health, supporting immune function, and promoting overall wellness. They will also touch on the pros and challenges of offering concierge services based on their experiences. Reserve your seat here More information about Confidence Circles and upcoming Confidence Lab Trainings available here.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Lisa Pena Introducing Lisa Pena the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Lisa took part in multiple trainings at The Confidence Lab in 2024, with her latest training being a 1-1 Customized Day with Lamija! What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I started my career in nursing in 2014 as a pediatric nurse at Loyola Medical Center. Over my five years of working there, I completed my masters to become a FNP in 2018. What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? Truthfully, my own personal interest and a push from a very respected NP in the aesthetic industry inspired me to pursue a career in aesthetics. In 2019, Brittany Crosadell was injecting my lips, and she said to me something like, “Why aren’t you injecting?! You’re a nurse practitioner!” At the time, I was so focused on the family medicine side of my practice that it never dawned on me to purse aesthetics as well. Shortly after, I took a basics training course and the rest is history. Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I chose The Confidence Lab’s training program because of their welcoming energy, strong sense of community over competition, as well as their experience and expertise in training hundreds and hundreds of injectors. I have trained at The Confidence Lab on three different occasions. At each training, I have felt welcomed, empowered to ask questions, and comfortable sharing concerns or a lack of understanding on certain topics. The ability to customize my training sessions to my needs leaves me feeling fulfilled and more confident to deliver improved results to my patients. All trainings at The Confidence Lab have provided me with significant hands on opportunities, which is amazing! The Confidence Lab injectors also align with my ideology of providing natural enhancements. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? My favorite aspects of working in aesthetics are helping people to feel more confident in their own skin. I’ve learned that small changes make a big impact. To see a patient with a beaming smile after seeing their results gives me immense affirmation. I also enjoy connecting with my patients and getting to know them over the long term. I try to take time with them, and jot down things about them unrelated to aesthetics. Personal touches and genuine connection go a long way. What are you doing now? Right now, I am practicing family and aesthetic medicine, and I work at two different practices. I work full time at Peña Clinic, our family-owned family medicine office where I work with my dad. He has been a family physician for 37 years and allowed me to bring aesthetics into our practice 5 years ago. From managing patients with diabetes and high blood pressure, to giving joint injections and performing all things aesthetics, I am thankful that I am maximizing the scope of my practice as a nurse practitioner. I also work part time at Kiss Aesthetics by Kim Burke. In 2021, I took one of Kim’s trainings and she offered me a position to join the team part time. It was the opportunity of a lifetime for me. Having been a solo injector at Peña Clinic, it was very scary for me at times seeing patients on my own without a consistent mentor to turn to. My skillset improved dramatically once I joined the Kiss team in 2021, and I am forever grateful to Kim for giving me this opportunity. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? 1. Try not to let the industry intimidate you. Educate yourself, invest in trainings, and stay focused as everyone has their own unique path to success. Stay focused and you will get there! 2. Use social media as a tool, but don’t let it consume you. Your interactions with your current patients are more valuable than how many likes a post has or how many followers you have. 3. Make friends in the aesthetic community and be sure to have a mentor/friend who you can call with questions. We all need to remember to support each other and lift each other up!

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Joelle Hoffman Introducing Joelle Hoffman, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Joelle took part in a Customized 1-1 Training with Lamija this past December. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I started my nursing career as an LPN in 2014. I have worked in multiple areas of nursing over the last 10 years, always seeking my niche. My last position prior to working in aesthetics was in the Progressive Care Unit. I really enjoyed the fast-paced atmosphere and caring for patients from all walks of life. I became a Nurse Practitioner in 2023--it's been a whirlwind!  What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I've always dreamt of having my own business, I just didn't know what to pursue. My constant yearning for finding my "place" in nursing really led me to aesthetics. I loved the idea of learning about cosmetic injecting, empowering my patients and being part of enhancing their confidence. I started off by going to esthetics school in 2020 and opened my spa in November that year. I grew my business slowly, offering skincare services and learning as much as I could. When I became an NP in 2023, I hit the ground running. My esthetics salon blossomed into a medical spa and I brought in new services as I was comfortable with them. I am very conscientious about safety and good outcomes, so I never do something that I feel uncomfortable with. After injecting for 11 months, I knew it was time to expand my education by attending a training at The Confidence Lab. It is truly a blessing to have a job that I love and help my patients feel beautiful.  Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I have had a subscription with Rana's Patreon for two years and I came across her work several years ago. I started following other providers on instagram from The Confidence Lab as well because I found the content to be so informative--and sometimes gave me a giggle because this team doesn't forget to have fun. This training program was something that I have wanted to attend for quite some time. I began incorporating techniques from The Confidence Lab into my aesthetics approach when I began injecting. I really appreciate the conservative and thoughtful treatment plans, safety-driven education, and details that Rana and her team provide when sharing their knowledge.   What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? My favorite aspect of working in this field is the artistry behind what we do. I love natural looking outcomes and providing education to my patients. Watching a patient's response to their own reflection after we have made minor enhancements is the best feeling in the world!  What are you doing now? Since taking my training with Lamija, I am more comfortable in my practice and utilizing different techniques for injecting. I have had such a great response from my patients and I'm so excited for the future.  What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? This industry can be difficult to navigate through. Providers have different approaches and techniques, so it can be overwhelming to decipher what is "best practice." My best advice is to invest in education over and over again. Find providers that resonate with you and your aesthetic eye. Seek small training sessions that allow you to inject as much as possible. Grow slowly. Never do something that you're uncomfortable with. Last but not least, if you want to work in this field, don't give up! It's a long trek and you need to allow yourself time to absorb education, reinvest in your knowledge, and take your time building your clientele.

Laura Wood's is a Nurse Practitioner based in Louisiana and the proud owner of The Lafayette Injector . Recently, Laura flew in to join our Confidence Circle with Mary Brennan on Skin Health. With a wealth of knowledge herself, Laura generously shared some of her own skin health secrets. Read about Laura Woods, FNP-C skin health secrets with these handy cheat sheets.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Laura Harlan Introducing Laura Harlan, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Laura has taken multiple trainings, been a model, and received treatment at The Confidence Lab & Bar over the past few years! What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? I originally trained in Internal Medicine and after a few years in private practice with a small group, I was offered an opportunity to work in the Emergency Room.  I was a dedicated night shift attending in the ER for over 20 years.  When I realized I wasn't bouncing back from the overnights as quickly, I moved on to a vascular clinic for about 4 years.  It was during those 4 years that I was approached by a friend and former colleague from the ER to start up an aesthetic practice.  I liked the idea, but knew there would be a lot of training  to be done in all areas of Aesthetics, so I set out to do just that.  Our business journey began.  Eventually we went our separate ways and I had a choice to make- go ahead and retire, or take my knowledge and training, re brand, and continue.  I chose the latter.   Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? When my journey began about 5 years ago in Aesthetics, I put a lot of research into how and where to train.  I am definitely a "hands on" person.  When I came across Rana and The Confidence Lab, I knew that would be a good place to go- I had an amazing experience (on more than one occasion) training there.  I was made to feel comfortable, could ask anything without judgement, could customize training for my needs, and at the end of the day left there feeling more confident to take what I learned back to my practice. What are you doing now? I currently keep my practice small and absolutely love being available for my clients any day of the week- most just text me when they want to come in.  I enjoy really getting to know them, hearing about their lives and building relationships (this satisfaction is something you usually don't get working in the ER). I still work in the ER 1-2 shifts/month as they are short staffed and I still like the fast pace there in small bites so to speak. What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? For anyone thinking of a career in Aesthetics, my advice is to train several times a year as the industry/products/techniques are constantly changing; speak to someone who has been there from the ground up (I personally have met with several nurses and nurse practitioners in my area and shared what I did right, what I did wrong, how to source supplies, how to deal with Reps, etc).  Also, read, read, research, and read some more.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Jennifer Fonseca Introducing Jennifer Fonseca , the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Jennifer has traveled from Florida to attend multiple trainings at The Confidence Lab in 2024. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? Although I had worked in general medicine as a medical provider for 15 years, most of my initial exposure and affinity developed for aesthetics came from undergoing treatments myself over the last 5 years. I knew from the client and Nurse Practitioner standpoint what it took to be a great aesthetics provider. The Confidence Bar exceeded my expectations and took vested interest in the strategies and tools taught to help me reach my provider goals. Small class size, interactive educational techniques, varying topics from aesthetics to business roles- recipe for greatness! What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I have a genuine joy and passion for helping others build and maintain confidence while also attending to health optimization strategies. Helping others help themselves is underrated! Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? It was important for me to choose and focus on a facility that shared my passion and desire for aesthetics. Although I was eager to train somewhere, I searched for 2 months before finding a center that focused on quality over quantity in terms of class sizes and learning techniques. I wanted to assure myself I had a strong foundation to start and a stronger platform to return to for expected individualized trainings. Sitting in my 1st didactic course at the Confidence Bar with 12 other students from across the nation, I confirmed then I made solid educational choice. What is your favorite aspect of working in the field of aesthetics? My favorite aspect of working as an aesthetics provider is certainly the instant filler results a client sees in the mirror that often brings them to tears from desirable outcomes :) What are you doing now? Since my initial group training course in March 2024, I was able to secure lead NP position a prominent aesthetics center in my area. Fun fact, the interview came down between myself and a (5 year) experienced aesthetics provider and I was hired based off the skill set I made reference to learning at the Confidence Bar. I was told "confidence and passion exuded from me", and my warm personality made the decision easy. The Confidence Bar lives up to its name!  What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? Slow and steady wins the race. Money comes and goes but a skill set is forever so invest in yourself and pay it forward whenever possible. Look for people and places that match or exceed your own dedication, focus and energy!

At The Confidence Lab, we believe in empowering healthcare professionals to elevate their careers through hands-on, comprehensive training in aesthetics. Our most recent Introduction to Aesthetics Two-Day Workshop was a testament to this mission, and we couldn't be more happy to share the heartfelt experiences of our attendees. Watch the Highlights This video captures the authentic voices of those who joined us for two action-packed days of learning, networking, and skill-building. From discovering the fundamentals of facial anatomy to mastering injection techniques, attendees walked away with more than just knowledge—they gained confidence in their ability to excel in aesthetics. A Special Thank You We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing attendees featured in this video. Be sure to follow them on Instagram and support their inspiring work in the aesthetics field: Melissa Deister : @melissadeister Bridget Casey : @aestheticallyb_np Heather Pullen : @heatherbrookep Alicia Kobe : @alicia.kobe Amanda Skouti : @skoutiamanda Abby Blank : @abby.blankk Thank you for trusting us to guide you in this exciting new chapter of your careers! Why Choose The Confidence Lab? Our workshop stands out because of its unique approach: Hands-On Training : Our participants practice skills in a supervised setting to build both competence and confidence. Expert Educators : Our instructors are seasoned professionals who guide participants every step of the way. Supportive Environment : We foster an atmosphere of encouragement and collaboration, ensuring everyone feels valued and supported. What Attendees Are Saying Here are some key takeaways from the workshop, as shared in the testimonials: “The instructors were so patient and knowledgeable. I felt supported the entire time.” “This experience has given me the confidence to start my aesthetics practice immediately.” “I didn’t just learn the techniques; I learned how to approach aesthetics with a patient-first mindset.” Your Journey Starts Here Our Introduction to Aesthetics Two-Day Workshop is perfect for medical professionals looking to enter the field of aesthetics or expand their current practice. With our guidance, you'll leave with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. If you’ve been considering a career in aesthetics, let this video be your inspiration to take the first step. At The Confidence Lab, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Upcoming Workshops Don’t miss the opportunity to join us at one of our Introduction to Aesthetics Two-Day Workshops . These sessions are perfect for medical professionals who want to begin or expand their aesthetics careers. Below are some of our upcoming dates: Spots are limited, so we encourage you to reserve your place as soon as possible. Each workshop is designed to provide hands-on training, practical experience, and all the tools you need to thrive in this growing field.

When it comes to aesthetic training, practitioners across the nation are choosing The Confidence Lab for its reputation of excellence, personalized approach, and empowering environment. Here’s what some of our attendees had to say about why they chose us: A Commitment to Excellence and Safety “I chose The Confidence Lab because I’ve followed Rana’s Patreon for some time and have always appreciated how safely she practices and how approachable she seems. After training with Lamija, I left feeling more confident and prepared as an injector.” — Emily Dambrin A Personalized and Empowering Experience “The small class sizes, extensive training, and quality of education were exactly what I was looking for. The team answered questions before I even asked and taught in a way that fit any personality type. I left The Confidence Lab feeling supported and empowered.” — Sarah Marsh Building a Community Over Competition “The Confidence Lab’s philosophy of positivity, empowerment, and community over competition resonated deeply with me. It’s not just about learning; it’s about building lasting relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.” — Jackie Rabaya Hands-On, Customized Learning “The Confidence Lab stands out because of their commitment to individualized training. Before my session, they reached out to discuss my goals and even arranged specific models for me. It was a game-changer for my confidence and skills.” — Becky Berkan & Genea Grossen Exceptional Hands-On Training “I was drawn to their emphasis on quality over quantity, especially in class sizes. The online didactic portion provided a solid foundation, and the hands-on clinical training exceeded my expectations. The Confidence Lab gave me the tools and confidence to grow in this industry.” — Mindy Choi An Inspiring and Knowledgeable Team “Rana and her team are second to none. Their passion for aesthetics, commitment to safety, and genuine mentorship make The Confidence Lab an unparalleled choice. I felt like family the moment I walked in.” — Justin Jacobson A Reputation That Speaks for Itself “When I researched training options, The Confidence Lab kept coming up in conversations with industry leaders I admire. Their philosophy of natural aesthetic treatments and their welcoming vibe solidified my decision. I’ve already returned for additional training!” — Rebecca Kaechele A Foundation for Long-Term Success “I was searching for a place where I could learn in-depth techniques and build lasting relationships. The Confidence Lab delivered exactly that. The team’s dedication to safety and education sets them apart, and I know I’ll continue to return for more advanced training.” — Angela Anderson A Home for Learning and Growth “The Confidence Lab provides an atmosphere where even the most nervous of learners can thrive. I found the curriculum thorough, the instructors patient, and the entire experience transformative. I can’t recommend this training center enough.” — Kelly Pfeiffer Empowering New Careers “Transitioning to aesthetics was daunting, but The Confidence Lab made it seamless. Their philosophy of safety, education, and community gave me the tools and confidence to launch a new chapter in my career with enthusiasm and assurance.” — Rachel Dewar At The Confidence Lab, we’re more than just a training facility—we’re a community committed to your growth and success. Whether you’re new to aesthetics or looking to advance your skills, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Are you ready to start your journey with The Confidence Lab? Let us help you build confidence in your craft while transforming your future in aesthetics.

Welcome to "Where Are They Now?", a series that follows the journey of individuals who have attended one of our courses and how they have applied the skills and knowledge gained with us in their professional and personal lives. We believe that learning is a lifelong journey, and we take pride in knowing that our program has had a positive impact on the lives of our attendees. Emily Dambrin Introducing Emily Dambrin, the newest addition to our "Where Are They Now?" series brings us great excitement. Emily took part in a Customized 1-1 Training with Lamija in July, 2024. What were you doing before you got into aesthetics? Before working in aesthetics as a NP, my background was in women's health. I spent several years at the bedside as a Mother Baby nurse and in outpatient Reproductive Endocrinology. I love that I still get to spend the majority of my days surrounded by women (but also love my male patients)! What inspired you to pursue a career in aesthetics? I pursued a career in aesthetics for a multitude of reasons: better work/life balance, (mostly) less stress as a medical specialty, highly procedural, continuity of care and spending time with my patients, and the fact that there is always something new to learn.  I currently work at a medspa called Muse Atlanta Skin Health & Aesthetics.  Our space is stunning, it's in a fun area of town, and our clientele is amazing. Most of our patients are referrals which I think speaks volumes about the work we do and the trust our patients place in us. I do mostly injectables (neurotoxin, dermal fillers, Sculptra, PRF) but also a lot of skin health consultations. I love good skincare! Why did you choose The Confidence Lab's training program? I chose the Confidence Lab because I've followed Rana's Patreon for some time and have always appreciated how s afely she practices and how approachable she seems.  I reached out to several people I admire in the industry to see if they could pick one training, who did they recommend, and Confidence Lab kept coming up!  All of Rana's injectors appeared approachable and super knowledgeable. I was so pleased with the training I had with Lamija. She was kind, supportive and her expertise in facial anatomy and the overall patient experience was top notch. I left feeling more confident and prepared as an injector.  What advice would you give to those considering a career in this field? For those looking to get into aesthetics I recommend shadowing an injector first to see if it's something you will like.  Try finding a practice that is willing to train you and provide you with a mentor so you have someone to bounce ideas off of and review your treatment plans.  You do not want to be alone in this space, especially if you're new. If they're willing to hire you without any experience and are not clear about training and expectations I would consider this a red flag!  If you're a newbie and having trouble getting your foot in the door, find a practice where you can get some experience as an MA first. The more exposure and practice in aesthetics, the better!  I never turn down an opportunity for training and maintain a good relationship with my drug reps so they always think of me if anything comes up!  I also love following other well known injectors on social media and subscribe to several Patreon accounts.

At The Confidence Lab, we take pride in fostering not just skill, but success. Our training programs are designed to empower professionals to thrive in the aesthetics industry—and we love hearing about the journeys our attendees embark on after they leave our training sessions. That’s why we created the “ Where Are They Now ” blog series: a dedicated space to celebrate their achievements, growth, and ongoing impact in the field. What Is “Where Are They Now”? This special section of our blog is a collection of inspiring stories written by our past attendees. These entries give you a glimpse into the incredible transformations that take place after completing our training programs. From launching thriving practices to achieving significant career milestones, these stories shine a light on their dedication and success. Why We Highlight Attendee Stories Our mission extends beyond teaching technical skills; we’re here to build a supportive community that celebrates every step of your journey. By sharing these stories, we aim to: Inspire Others : See what’s possible through the words of those who’ve been there. Celebrate Success : Acknowledge the hard work and passion of our alumni. Stay Connected : Strengthen our network and provide ongoing support for our community. Get Inspired Whether you're a prospective student considering a course or a fellow practitioner seeking motivation, the “Where Are They Now” series offers invaluable insights. These blog posts are proof that the knowledge and confidence gained at The Confidence Lab  can open doors to incredible opportunities. Share Your Story! If you’re a past attendee of our training programs, we’d love to hear from you! Writing your “Where Are They Now” entry is not just a way to celebrate your journey—it’s a chance to inspire others who are just starting theirs. Contact us at info@theconfidencelab.com if you are ready to share your story. Ready to dive into the success stories? Explore the series here , and let these real-life journeys fuel your ambition. We’re proud to be part of our attendees’ journeys and look forward to watching their continued success. Let’s grow and shine together! 🌟

Bringing a new injector onto an established team is exciting but delicate. Team reactions can range from enthusiasm to a hint of jealousy. Creating a cohesive, supportive environment is crucial for getting everyone on board with a new hire and maintaining morale. When I add a new injector, I start planning months in advance— i think about six months, in this case. I once interviewed a candidate for nine months but lost her in the end, which still stings me!!! . Moving too slowly can sometimes backfire. A retired friend, a self-made zillionaire, always tells me to hire fast and fire faster if it doesn’t work out. I get where he’s coming from; people can interview well and fall short in the workplace, while hidden gems might not interview strongly but shine on the job. But I prefer a slower, more thorough process, even if my friend Brian, who’s all business and no emotional strings, would handle it differently and shakes his head at me. I’m fortunate that we receive resumes through our website portal 'join our team '. IF you are a business owner and dont have this on your website, add it today! I disregard the AI-generated applications or the ones where candidates clearly haven’t researched us. Kristin , our new injector, approached me personally and applied online. I did a phone interview and got straight down to business - she was very honest. I brought her in for an interview with the two of us first and a working interview, where she offered to bring her own model and product, which saved me some work and showed she had initiative. During the working interview, she handled her model’s constant praise—"I only trust Kristin with my face"—with grace, even though her face was going red with a gushing model.Next was introducing her to the team as an “assistant” during two different training sessions to see how she interacted. The team immediately responded, saying things like, “I love her,” and “She’s really good and helpful.” By then, she was scoring real points and my important feedback was from our administration team is equally as important. I also put Kristin on the spot and asked her how we could improve in trainings and she was very professional and had great suggestions. Any new hire should be able to contribute to improving and they are a great assets with a fresh perspective. In another one-on-one interview, (yes another) going late into the night, Kristin opened up about some personal matters, and when I asked her why she shared those in an interview she said “I feel safe here.” I respected that she felt she could trust me—like every patient, I am a vault. The goal in interviews is not just to gauge skills and personality but to get them really bloody comfortable to see if they align with our mission and values and if they are a real human with kindness. The last step was the offer. It was a sunny day out of the office and she made me cry (and people I don't cry during an interview process) saying why the day was significant due to a personal matter. The stars had really aligned and it felt right. My friend Brian would be shaking his head at me at this point. Once a new injector joins, team dynamics shift. Many team members are excited about learning from someone new, but others, understandably, feel protective of their space. We have a team member who is our team “guard dog,” she doesn’t let anyone get close to the team without vetting them first with all her sniffing! Shes very protective and very funny. Its one of her many positive attributes. Naturally, new additions spark feelings of comparison, particularly when the skill level is high. I let those feelings play out but also organize team-building activities, like spa days, to foster collaboration.  When you hire right, the team notices the value themselves quickly or eventually. My role is to do constant check in with the new hire and the existing team are doing their own vetting and check ins with each other. Remember as a business owner you are the LAST to find out the whispers and most likely you will never hear even hear them. But at the end of the day you know you made the right decision for not you, but with your team in mind and the business values. You can welcome Kristin here: IG @confidencebykristin