Celebrity colorist and President of Você Haircare, Kaz Amor, is known as a leader in the professional salon industry. He has become the go-to hair and color stylist in sought after celeb circles, with many beauty professionals turning to him for creative consult. Kaz has picked up invaluable experience during the time spent as an influencer at Redken, L’Oréal, Sebastian International and Vidal Sassoon.

We caught up with Kaz to chat about his inspirations. Here’s what he had to say:

Q: Who influenced you the most when learning your craft?

A: I was most influenced by John Cusenza, founder of Sebastian International, as well as the VP of Education for Redken, Christine Schuster.

Q: Where do you draw your inspiration from?

A: I am very involved in fashion – whether it is make-up, hair or clothes. I read many magazines and stay up to date with technology, trend predictions,  manufacturers and fashion. This way I’ll know what is coming and what is possible. New technology gives you more intense colors or softer colors.

Q: What would you say to new future professionals entering this industry?

A: Most hairdressers get into this business because it is a creative outlet. They are not aware that the compensation can be tremendous – there are people who earn 6 figure salaries for sure! So there is a huge potential to use your creativity to earn a lot of money. But at the end of the day, what you put in is what you will get out of it. Ask yourself: How am I going to stand out from the rest? There are so many hairstylists – are you willing to say “yes” 24 hours a day? If you want a 9-5 job, maybe this is not the industry for you.

Q: Where did you attend school?

A: I was an apprentice in London for three years where I learned how to sweep, shampoo, prepare hair treatments and clean the salon before actually doing hair.

Q: What was the turning point of your career?

A: My turning point was when I went to Tokoyo for Vidal Sassoon and there were 2000 people in the audience. I thought I did things well, but I did not take myself that seriously.

Q: What is the best advice you have received?

A: The best advice I received is: In this business you have to be available 24 hours a day. Be accommodating and available for the client when they need you.

Q: What are some of your biggest accomplishments?

A: Working as a Color Director for Vidal Sassoon, on the West Coast, is one of my biggest achievements. I also count being a Color Director for Sebastian International as an accomplishment along with the lead role I encompassed in Japan with the Japan Haircolor Association. I am also very proud of the work I’ve done with Redken as an educator and hair care consultant as well as time spent with Warren Tricomi Salon, John Cusenza and Christine Schuster.