As personal stylists look to get their services online, a common misconception holds many back: the belief that you need a sophisticated setup, complete with advanced business management tools and software, to truly make it and earn a steady income. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. The reality? If you can write an email and attend a Zoom call, you already possess the tech skills needed to succeed.

The Myth of Complexity
Many personal stylists and small business owners feel intimidated by the perceived complexity of digital tools. This belief often stems from a misunderstanding of what these tools are designed to do: simplify operations, not complicate them. The fear that one needs to be tech-savvy to use these tools can prevent talented individuals from taking the steps necessary to grow their business in today's digital age.

Helen's Journey: A Case Study in Simplicity
Take, for instance, the story of Helen, the owner of Colours by Ell, a niche shoe business that catered to clients across the UK and Ireland. Helen's business model relied heavily on traveling to events across the UK and Ireland to showcase her range of colourful shoes. But when COVID-19 struck, the cancellation of all events threatened her business’s very survival.

Initially overwhelmed by the idea of shifting her business online, Helen was just like any other stylist out there—wary of the technological demands such a shift would entail. Her story, however, illustrates a vital lesson: the transition to digital need not be daunting.

Discovery and Transformation
During this crisis, Helen came across me (Aileen Lane), and my weekly free live trainings in my Savvy Personal Stylists & Image Consultants Online Network. These sessions provided Helen not only with a routine but also with accessible building blocks to refocus her business. Aileen’s emphasis on identifying and catering to an ideal client resonated with Helen, prompting her to reach out for a more personalized consultation.

In their discovery call, Aileen suggested simple yet effective strategies that could be implemented with minimal technical know-how. Inspired by these suggestions, Helen signed up for further coaching. The focus was clear: identify the ideal client, solve their problems, and do so in a way that benefits them directly.

Innovating with Basic Tech Skills
With Aileen’s guidance, Helen developed a new service—shoe wardrobe reviews—which she could manage entirely online. This service didn’t require sophisticated software; basic tools like email for communication and Zoom for virtual consultations sufficed. This approach not only helped Helen keep her business afloat during the pandemic but also set a foundation for sustainable growth in the future.

The launch of her online program was a testament to the power of simplicity. Helen managed to sign up several consultants and clients on her first launch, proving that one doesn’t need complex systems to expand a personal styling business into the digital realm. Helen is a brilliant example of running a face to face business along side an online business.

I had the privilege to interview Helen about her journey online a while back. Watch out our full interview here. 

Helen's story debunks the false belief that high tech equals high success. Instead, it highlights a truth many overlook: effective digital transformation can be achieved with the most basic tech skills. Here are a few takeaways from Helen’s experience:

Focus on Needs:

✔️Understanding and focusing on the client's needs is more critical than the sophistication of the tools used.

✔️Simplify, Don’t Complicate: Use technology to simplify processes, not to add unnecessary complexity.

✔️Leverage Available Tools: Utilize commonly available tools like emails and video calling platforms to maintain and grow client relationships.


If you're holding back from taking your personal styling business online due to fears of technological complexity, let Helen's story inspire you. The digital tools needed to enhance your business are not only accessible but also user-friendly. In today's world, embracing these tools can significantly broaden your reach and impact, all without requiring you to become a tech expert.

​Remember, the essence of technology in business is to facilitate operations and enhance connectivity—not to serve as a barrier. With just the basic skills of navigating emails and participating in Zoom calls, you have what it takes to transform your business and achieve new heights of success. Don't let the myth of complexity hold you back. Embrace simplicity, and watch your business thrive.