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In the lead up to International Women's Day, we're talking to influential women from our partner brands about celebrating women in business, as well as the challenges that are still to be overcome.
Today, we're talking to Tera Peterson. As the co-founder of microcurrent brand NuFACE, she has established a business that's been truly "founded by women, for women". Together with her mother, she has identified a gap in the skincare market to build up a global company in just ten short years. Here's what she had to say.
Tell us about a woman who has inspired you.
My mother Carol Cole, is the most inspirational woman I know. She was a single mother of two, who worked 7 days a week to put food on the table for my older sister and me. Throughout the 1980’s, she worked day and night traveling from San Diego to Los Angeles, lugging her large professional microcurrent “facial exercising” machine from home to home, treating 8-11 clients a day.
My mom was introduced to the technology, by an aesthetician from the UK. At the time, microcurrent was a technology few had heard of -- but instantly, my Mom knew this natural, non-invasive facelift was her calling. Carol believed her work could change women’s lives and was determined to put microcurrent in the hands of every woman, to look and feel beautiful. To this day, she continues to spread the word and educate woman on the amazing benefits of microcurrent technology.
Does being a female entrepreneur today come with extra challenges?
Unlike many other industries, that may still be male dominated and are susceptible to inequalities, there are more female entrepreneurs than ever, in the beauty industry. Women consumers want products that are made by other women, who understand the many challenges as moms, professionals, wives, etc. So for me, one of the greatest perks, is that I get an opportunity to understand and relate to our clients because at the end of the day, I am “her” and we are us!
What key advice did you receive early in your career that has stayed with you?
When I was 19, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to go back to work days after her mastectomy, I remember she told me “even when times are tough- surround yourself with good people… and people that believe in your vision… so collectively you can create great things”.
Your business is known for empowering women. How does this gender balance positively impact corporate culture?
NuFACE is founded by women, for women so it’s no surprise that our “family” here at NuFACE, is mostly comprised of women. Our employees are hard-working, supportive, professional and check their egos at the door. I see hard work in the office, I see creativity- and just as important I hear laughter, I hear collaboration – I hear people supporting one another.
What's the single biggest issue facing women in the workplace right now?
Pay inequality. Too many women are doing the same job as men but getting paid a fraction of their male counterparts.
