Tara Cohen Stewart

Founder

MIXST BEAUTY

Why is CEW membership important to you?

I have been a member of CEW for years.  I think the membership is really important for individuals who want to stay informed and up to date on what is happening in the industry.  There are many features that are offered with the membership that can help people feel connected.  I like reading all the reports and going to the events when I can.

What do you love most about working in the beauty Industry?

I love the creative process.  I think it is very exciting to be able to conceptualize an idea and turn it into a tangible product.  I also love the collaborative process, when you get to work with different people, groups or teams that share the same passion for creation. I think products is a quick fix in making you feel good.  It is satisfying to create new products and it is rewarding when people enjoy them.

What do you feel is the most important quality for someone to possess in order you have a successful career?

There isn’t one quality.  I think you need several.  What has served me well is having an open attitude to new ideas and experiences.  You also have to love what you do. You have to have passion for it. Another important trait is to keep your cool and relax.  Too many times I have felt myself really under pressure, stressed or feeling overwhelmed.  You need to step back, take a breather, or a break.   You also need to listen and observe.  You don’t have to have all the answers, but you should be willing to find them out.  You should try to prepare in advance if you can.  Don’t be afraid to say no and do not take on too much if you feel like you cannot handle it.  In turn, if you need to be challenged let people know that you want more work and more opportunities.

Resilience, strength of character and an in-depth knowledge and drive has made me successful in anything that I have pursued.

How important has mentorship been in your career journey?

I have had the opportunity to work with some incredible people and big personalities.  I wish I had more mentorship to help me navigate through many situations that I faced in my career.  I found often times I was always alone or felt alone.  I was afraid to ask for help and I didn’t know who I could trust. One of my biggest mentors turned out to be my boss who I now also consider my friend.  I think mentorship is very important.  Frankly, mentoring should not be for the young only.  Everyone can benefit from mentoring.  There has to be trust, directness, and openness in order for mentorship to work.