20 Questions with Iris Smit, CEO of The Quick Flick

1. What inspired you to start your own business?

I was inspired to solve the problem around hard-to-use beauty applications. Having a design background I understood the power of good design and how this positively impacts someone’s life, even if it is something as simple as being able to achieve a winged eyeliner look.

2. What do you enjoy most about this industry?

I love the constant challenge and the fact that there is always without a doubt something to learn. This industry is always changing, evolving and being challenged so being a part of that is really exciting and keeps you on your toes.

3. What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be so many different things as I found I had a range of talents growing up and couldn’t really hone in on one thing, I think that’s why I love what I do so much now as I wear so many hats and pull on many different talents. At one stage I wanted to be an astronaut, then a lawyer, then an architect.

4. How do you define success?

Setting goals and achieving them though at the same time making sure those goals are delivering you with happiness.

5. Do you enjoy online shopping?
a. Why?

Absolutely I do – mainly for the convenience and the fact I can type in exactly what I want and find it in seconds.

6. What was the last thing you bought online?
a. Did you add express shipping?

I bought a pair of vintage 901 Levi’s jeans from the 90s. I’m obsessed with vintage fashion, in fact my first business was selling vintage clothing on Etsy when I was in highschool. And I add express shipping to everything (guilty!)

7. What are three words that best describe you?

Motivated, passionate and crazy (the good kind).

8. Did you have a childhood hero?

Not in particular, but in the movies and literature I consumed growing up I always gravitated to the strong, independent female character.

9. What’s your favourite joke?

I don’t have one!

10. What was your first job?

I worked at a fast-food chicken joint called Switch.

11. What has been the proudest moment in your career?

Appearing on Shark Tank – it really pushed me out of my comfort zone. Closely followed by launching my brand into Priceline, as it was my first major retailer and an absolute dream come true seeing my product on shelves.

12. As a CEO, what are the first three things you do when you wake up?

Try not to think about work – which means not reaching for my phone the moment I wake up. I like to leave the first hour for myself to get myself into the right mindset for the day ahead. This can range from meditating, going for a walk at the beach or journalling.

13. Are you binge-watching any TV shows right now?

I’m obsessed with Ted Lasso – it shows the challenges of being a leader and running a business. I love the character, Rebecca, who’s the owner of the football club, she’s just an absolute boss in a male-dominated industry.

14. Have you picked up any new hobbies in lockdown?

I re-discovered my love for vintage fashion. Does shopping count as a hobby haha?

15. Do you have any secret talents?

I’m obsessed with weight lifting and can deadlift 130 kg.

16. What is your most used App on your phone?

It’s a tie between Instagram and TikTok.

17. What is your favourite part about your job?

Overcoming a challenge when it’s thrown at me – which is often! I love problem-solving.

18. What’s your favourite ad on TV right now?

Did somebody say, MenuLog?

19. How do you unwind after a long day?

Going to the gym and lifting heavy weights is the best way for me to unplug.

20. Is there any advice you’d give your 16-year-old self?

This is a tough question, as when I was 16 I was subject to domestic violence, which didn’t end until I moved out of home when I was 17. I think I would remind myself that I was a powerful woman and not allow anyone to put out my flame. I would tell myself how capable I am and that I can achieve absolutely anything I put my mind to. I would remind 16-year-old Iris how great she is already and is going to be.

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