Founder of Essie Nail Polish Says Drive, Commitment and Passion Are the Secrets to Building a Successful Company

Essie Weingarten says you have to live and breathe your brand and company mission.

learn more about Nina Zipkin

By Nina Zipkin

When Essie Weingarten founded her iconic brand, she was a former department store hosiery buyer with a love for nail polish. She got her company off the ground based on the strength of her product and sheer conviction that consumers would love it. She went to countless trade shows and if she was driving down the street and saw a salon that could feature the Essie polish, she would stop the car, go right in and introduce herself.

Weingarten says her unfailing belief in her business propelled her to success. You have to be committed, you have to be passionate. You have to love what you're doing. If you don't, go get a job.

To hear more advice from the beauty founder, check out the video above.

Related: The Founder of Essie Reflects on the Evolution of Her Iconic Nail Polish Brand

Nina Zipkin

Entrepreneur Staff

Staff Writer. Covers leadership, media, technology and culture.

Nina Zipkin is a staff writer at Entrepreneur.com. She frequently covers leadership, media, tech, startups, culture and workplace trends.

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