2004 ALUMNI RECIPIENTS

Frank Saab, 35

Biggest achievement: The recent expansion and ongoing success of the business. In 2002, we grew from 850 square feet and five employees to 4,000 square feet and 27 employees.

Best skill: My ability to listen has been a key to my business success. Listening to the client allows me to visualize what they are requesting and give them the attention they deserve. My ability to listen and respond appropriately to employee concerns and suggestions has helped with staff retention.

Most admired businessperson: Anthony Mascolo, international artistic director of Toni & Guy, has been a role model for me. Mascolo is world renowned for being a visionary. While he is supremely successful, he remains approachable and down-to-earth.

Biggest business lesson learned: Building a relationship with clients creates staying power. Our business is built on repeat client visits and word-of-mouth advertising. With the flick of the scissors, you can alter someone's mood, self-esteem and confidence. Beyond the professional services we offer, we offer clients a time-out from hectic lives. Sometimes the client comes in and she wants a complete change and having an established relationship built up over the several visits allows me to talk them through the process and sometimes it's not a change they want at all. This relationship allows me to make a difference to the client and exceed their expectations.

Favourite charity: HOPE Volleyball Beachfest.

Professional recognition that would mean the most: To be recognized by my Ottawa industry peers as a contender to help unite our local industry, to develop a stronger local association comprised of a network of peers who co-exist as friendly competitors.