Owner of COV HAIR Mosman and Darlinghurst, Yoav’s passion for community, colour and a classy-salon environment is affording him recognition as one of the industry’s most personable professionals. We spoke to Yoav about where he goes for inspiration and education.
How important do you think education is to your business and why?
Education is the core of our craft and is quintessential for any business to thrive. I love visiting other salons for education as much as I enjoy doing education internally with my team. It’s important to stay curious and share ideas with other salons.
Where do you look to find education inspiration?
Inspiration comes to me in little snippets throughout daily life—people watching, movies, fashion. You can be inspired by the smallest pop of colour or texture; that’s what I love about being creative.
What’s your favourite education in-salon?
Internal one-on-one workshops are where the magic happens. When either William [Webb, COV HAIR Director] or myself offer our focus to each team member, that’s when we see the best results and have a great time.
Where do you go for online education?
I use Sassoon’s online education when I want to refresh my classics. Otherwise, I shamelessly troll the internet and social media!
Who are your favourite educators to follow on Instagram?
Seung Hwan from Korea is really cool, Lyndal Salmon is up there, and I love Gradient for techy men’s cutting.
If you could have education with anyone in the industry, who would it be?
Howard McLaren. I have lots of questions, but even more to watch. He’s literally hair caviar.
Do you attend industry events?
I love the industry awards and events, especially when my associate William goes and fetches us a cheeky award at the AHFAs. I think it brings a lot of excitement to our industry, and all of the event partners work really hard to create great events.
MANE STAGE 2024 was amazing, and Antoinette Beenders’ show was the cherry on top! It’s so important to have events where there is something for everyone and the entire industry to come together, like Hair Festival as well.
What education gives you the best return on investment?
Definitely sending the team to workshops with other stylists. The Goldwell ones have been amazing in 2024 and we’re basically booking everyone on all of them for the year in 2025! As an ambassador for the new Goldwell clay lightener I’ve been loving sharing education techniques with salons that help to create the most loyal blonde clientele.
Do you find learning theory difficult to follow?
I don’t, as long as it’s well-structured. I actually love the technical and theoretical stuff as much as the visual learning and with so much innovation in our products, we need to stay on top of both.
What ways do you keep your team engaged?
I love sending them to events, bringing new products and brands in, and having very open
discussions about all of the above every day.
How would you describe your style aesthetic?
I was told my style was “undone, effortless, and sexy” recently, and I wouldn’t want to argue with that!
What is your top priority for your business in 2025?
Growing the team and upskilling everyone, including myself, are the battles to be fought in
2025.
For more information visit www.covhair.com
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