Offres beauty salon à Charlotte, North CarolinaCreate job alerts

Job Description Now Hiring at HC Beauty – Charlotte, NC! Join our hardworking team at HC Beauty! We're looking for reliable, motivated individuals to fill a warehouse logistics role. This position involves manual labor and requires physical strength. Competitive pay, opportunities for growth, and a great team! Role Overview: To assist HC Beauty's Warehouse & Inventory Manager by overseeing shipping, receiving, and select elements of warehouse administration. Weekdays 9am-4pm, we can somewhat be flexible around your schedule! Shipping Inventory: {60%} • Check, verify, and fill customer invoices, • Unpack all orders, • Verify receipt of all items, • Maintain accurate inventory counts, • Keep warehouse clean and organized, • Medical/dental/vision plan (80% of premium paid by company), • 401k, • Performance bonuses (Monthly) Thank you for your interest; however, we do not partner with staffing or recruitment agencies. Please refrain from reaching out regarding our open positions, as we manage all recruitment internally. Direct inquiries to anyone in our organization will be forwarded back to our HR department. We kindly ask that you remove us from your mailing lists. Thank you for your understanding. Company DescriptionAt HC Beauty, excellence implies an extreme attention to detail and a relentless pursuit of the ideals of elegance from the perspective of the salon guest. We are able to this because of our ability to put ourselves in the shoes of the salon owner in a way that is unmatched in the industry, enabling us to lead the way to excellence through excellence. Our Values: Contribution Integrity Excellence Family Knowledge Growth & DevelopmentAt HC Beauty, excellence implies an extreme attention to detail and a relentless pursuit of the ideals of elegance from the perspective of the salon guest. We are able to this because of our ability to put ourselves in the shoes of the salon owner in a way that is unmatched in the industry, enabling us to lead the way to excellence through excellence.\r\n\r\nOur Values:\r\nContribution\r\nIntegrity\r\nExcellence\r\nFamily\r\nKnowledge\r\nGrowth & Development

Job Description POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for answering and transferring incoming calls, including critical calls related to customer service, appointments, and sales. Maintains and projects a positive company image by receiving and greeting guests and visitors. Assists with administrative duties by maintaining schedules, appointments, records, and reports. Performs other clerical functions as needed. Provides clerical assistance and support to service providers and managers, as needed, and other related duties as required or requested. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Telephone Calls/ Customer Service * Answers incoming telephone calls promptly and in a courteous manner. * Makes appointments, assists customers, sells products and services, resolves challenges, and in other ways assists guests. * Responds to customer inquiries and service requests. Ensures requests are responded to courteously and quickly. Assists in handling complaints and sales inquiries. * Exercises good judgment in representing the company, taking ownership of a guests concern or request, and following through to resolution. * Promotes Modern Salon and Spa’s products, services, and locations when interacting with guests and potential guests. Front Desk/ Greeting (at Locations) * Greets guests, potential guests, vendors, applicants, and visitors and determines the nature of their visit. * Determines if visitors have an appointment. * Acts as greeter to ensure current and potential guests are given the high level of service in which Modern Salon and Spa prides itself. Communication * Interfaces in a positive manner with internal customers and external guests in performing critical public relations duties. * Responds to questions in a professional manner. * Maintains open communication with internal customers during the performance of duties in order to ensure guests receive the highest level of service and care. * Attends staff meetings and educational meetings, as scheduled or requested. * Provides suggestions and ideas to management related to procedures that impact telephone and guest/ visitor traffic and guest satisfaction and retention. Knowledge * High school diploma or equivalent, required. * Some college, preferred. * Two years experience in salon and spa, retail, communications, public relations, call center and/ or related field. * Experience in answering multi-line telephones and/ or in customer service position, a plus. * Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the salon and spa and/ or customer service field. Skills * Demonstrated familiarity with computer systems, in general. Acumen for using technology. * Excellent verbal communication skills. * Demonstrated attentiveness to details; basic mathematical skills and neat handwriting. * Good internal and external customer service skills related to interaction with guests, potential guests, managers, co-workers, vendors, and others. * Demonstrated ease in interacting and problem solving with guests/ the public. Abilities * Good use of eloquent language, grammar, and sentence structure in verbal communications, a requirement. * Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. * Friendly, courteous, warm and welcoming demeanor. * Ability to follow instructions and guidelines provided to perform job up to standards set by Modern Salon and Spa. * Ability to represent the company in a positive way through neat and professional appearance and behavior. * Ability to perform effectively in a multitasking environment, i.e. be able to complete tasks at hand completely and accurately following interruptions. Company DescriptionAbove all else, Modern Salon & Spa was created as a place of well-being. By catering to the mind, body and soul, we have created a retreat from the everyday haven of pure relaxation. Modern Salon & Spa invites you to experience every aspect of our unique environment and the services we offer. Whether it is your first time with us, or you are an old friend, we welcome you to Modern Salon & Spa a retreat that brings beauty, relaxation and well-being into perfect balance.Above all else, Modern Salon & Spa was created as a place of well-being. \r\nBy catering to the mind, body and soul, we have created a retreat from the everyday haven of pure relaxation. \r\nModern Salon & Spa invites you to experience every aspect of our unique environment and the services we offer. \r\n\r\nWhether it is your first time with us, or you are an old friend, we welcome you to Modern Salon & Spa a retreat that brings beauty, relaxation and well-being into perfect balance.

Join a locally owned Great Clips salon, the world's largest salon brand, and be one of the GREATS! Whether you're new to the industry or have years behind the chairgreat opportunities await!! Your Career with Longitude Great Clips- What Youll Gain Hair Stylist, Stylist, Beauty, Salon.

Are you a cosmetology or barber student who's ready to jump-start your career? Join a locally owned Great Clips salon team and they will help you develop your skills and gain essential salon experience. Calling all future stylists! - - - Ready Hair Stylist, Intern, Stylist, Salon, Beauty.

Join a locally owned Great Clips salon, the world's largest salon brand, and be one of the GREATS! Whether you're new to the industry or have years behind the chair great opportunities await!! Bring Your Skills and Your Local Great Clips Salon will P Hair Stylist, Part-Time, Stylist, Salon, Beauty.

Job Description Different By Design Hair Salon Hair Stylist Position Description Different by Design Hair Salon is a great salon with tremendous and limitless opportunities for licensed cosmetologists. Different by Design Hair Salon is looking for Driven, Determined, Motivated, Goal-Oriented Stylists to work at this salon. We are offering a variety of times available for you to come and service your clientele, at an optimal level! Our goal is to service all clients at a time that is most convenient for them, thus making it convenient for you to work a schedule that’s best for you. Our MISSION is to celebrate and affirm the unique beauty of women of every culture as a salon committed to PASSION, LOVE and EXCELLENCE. Our VISION is to be a haven of rejuvenation that celebrates the unique beauty, significance and value of women of every culture. Hair Stylist Job Overview Different By Design, located in Charlotte, NC is looking for a hair stylist to join our team. The successful candidate will need great communication and customer service skills. The successful candidate will also posses a wide variety of skills to meet the hair care needs of clients. Hair Stylist Job Responsibilities · Provide a range of services and hair styling techniques including hair cutting and layering, chemical and coloring services, deep conditioners and treatments hair extensions, natural hair care, etc · Perform hairstyle consultations and suggest hair care products · Maintain a consistent relationship with client base in order to ensure return clients · Proactively develop new customers through a variety of marketing techniques · Maintain technical knowledge and skills by engaging in continuing education and training in order to follow new trends and techniques · Maintain cleanliness of salon environment and personal work stations · Attend weekly salon meetings · Obtaining customer feedback Skills and Qualifications · Thorough knowledge of a variety of hair styles and techniques, hair care products and related procedures · Excellent interpersonal, communication and customer service skills · Able to stand for prolonged periods of time · Professional in appearance and demeanor · Must goal oriented and must be a team player and must be passionate about your craft Education North Carolina Cosmetology License How to Apply Submit resume to with 3 to 5 photos showing a variety of your work. If you have an Instagram page, please include your Instagram name and ensure your page is open for viewing. Company DescriptionDifferent by Design Hair Salon is a fast paced, upbeat, professional salon that aims to provide a relaxing comforting environment for all to enjoy while stylists create and innovate the best hair style for youDifferent by Design Hair Salon is a fast paced, upbeat, professional salon that aims to provide a relaxing comforting environment for all to enjoy while stylists create and innovate the best hair style for you

Job Description MUST HAVE VALID NC COSMETOLOGY LICENSE TO APPLY Assistant / Salon Support Specialist – Meraki Salon Charlotte, NC Meraki Salon is seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented Assistant / Salon Support Specialist to join our award-winning team. This is not your typical “just out of school” assistant role — we’re looking for someone who understands the value of exceptional service and thrives in a fast-paced, high-end salon environment. This is a key position in our salon — the person in this role will keep our operations running smoothly and help create the elevated experience our clients expect. While you won’t be training to become a stylist here, your work will be essential to the success of our entire team. What You’ll Do: • Provide exceptional shampooing services to clients, • Assist stylists with blow drying and finishing workMaintain salon cleanliness, including sweeping, laundry, and workstation resets, • Organize tools and products to keep services flowing efficiently, • Support the team with whatever is needed to ensure clients have an amazing experienceWhat We’re Looking For:, • Someone who enjoys the beauty industry and salon atmosphere, but doesn’t necessarily want their own chair, • Highly reliable, self-motivated, and team-focused, • Detail-oriented and able to anticipate needs before being asked, • Competitive pay — significantly higher than the typical assistant position, • Work in a beautiful, high-end salon with a fun team and clientele, • Be part of a supportive, drama-free team that values respect and professionalism, • Flexible schedule options for the right person If you take pride in your work, love supporting a talented team, and want to be part of a salon that values excellence at every level, we’d love to hear from you. Company DescriptionA beautiful, high end salon in the desirable neighborhood of Eastover/Myers Park. Enjoy a flexible schedule, a fun laid back atmosphere and welcoming friendly staff. Meraki Salon is a luxurious, upscale hair salon dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional service and a personalized experience. Our name, Meraki, reflects our commitment to artistry and passion in everything we do. We are looking for talented and creative hair stylists to join our team and share in our vision. merakiluxurysalon.com Check us out on Instagram @merakisaloncharlotteA beautiful, high end salon in the desirable neighborhood of Eastover/Myers Park. Enjoy a flexible schedule, a fun laid back atmosphere and welcoming friendly staff. Meraki Salon is a luxurious, upscale hair salon dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional service and a personalized experience. Our name, Meraki, reflects our commitment to artistry and passion in everything we do. We are looking for talented and creative hair stylists to join our team and share in our vision.\r\nmerakiluxurysalon.com\r\n\r\nCheck us out on Instagram @merakisaloncharlotte

Job Description Paul Mitchell The School Charlotte is seeking a qualified Clinic Floor Leader to join our family! With over one hundred schools nation-wide, Paul Mitchell Schools is growing faster than ever. Our "One Size Fits All" and "Be Nice" culture creates a uniquely wonderful learning environment that attracts the most qualified staff team members who always put our Future Professionals first. Not only do we offer an education second to none, we also make time for personal and communal growth through opportunities such as FUNraising monthly team trainings, student clubs and activities, fashion shows, photo shoots and much more. Clinic Classroom Learning Leader Learning Leaders educate, motivate, mentor, and coach all Future Professionals in their technical and guest service skills and create extraordinary learning experiences in the clinic classroom using objective-based education (O.B.E.), mini classes, and learning centers. What We Are Looking For The ideal candidate will have previous education and salon experience, as well as experience with Paul Mitchell products. He or she must have a passion for educating, motivating, mentoring, and coaching all Future Professionals and for inspiring and coaching Future Professionals in all clinic classroom systems. This position requires experience in positive and effective communication, soft skills, professional development skills, and teamwork. Skills/Competencies Required: • Experience instructing at a cosmetology school, • Current cosmetology and instructor license, • Excellent organization, coaching, and communication skills, • Skills in supervision, teamwork, documentation, and return on investment, • Solid work history with verifiable references, • Passion for the beauty industry, • Honesty and professionalism Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description An Aveda Luxury Salon seeking Hair Stylists with exceptional customer service, and a sophisticated approach to beauty.: Key Responsibilities and Duties: * Perform all hair services, including precision cutting, complex color work (such as balayage, foiling, color correction, and creative color), keratin/smoothing treatments, and formal styling (updos, event hair). Specialize in high-demand services such as premium extensions, or bridal hair, as required. 2. The Client Experience (Luxury Service) Maintain professionalism, discretion, and a polished appearance that reflects the salon's luxury brand. * Build and sustain a loyal, high-value clientele through relationship-building, exceptional service, and consistent rebooking. 3. Retail Sales and Education Serve as an expert advisor, educating clients on luxury hair care products, tools, and personalized at-home routines. • Meet and exceed retail sales goals by recommending premium, salon-exclusive products that complement the services performed. Effectively communicate the value and benefits of high-end services and treatments. 4. Salon Operations and Professional Development • Mentor and collaborate with junior staff, apprentices, or assistants, sharing knowledge and upholding salon protocols., • New graduates encouraged to apply (will train)

Job DescriptionBenefits: • Competitive salary, • Employee discounts, • Competitive Pay, • Career Growth Opportunities Qualifications • Successful completion of a cosmetology school and cosmetology license is required, • Proven experience as a stylist, hairdresser, or similar role is preferred, • In-depth knowledge of hair cutting techniques and best practices, • Skilled at hair coloring, straightening, and curling techniques, • Familiar with a variety of treatment products, • Up-to-date with trends in fashion and beauty

Job Description Are you ready to unleash your creativity and passion for style? Join Floyd's 99 in Charlotte, NC, as a Full-Time Stylist and dive into an exhilarating world of fashion. Experience the thrill of transforming lives through exceptional hair styling while being part of a dynamic team. Imagine earning up to $65,000 per year in total compensation as you connect with vibrant clients and make a lasting impact on their confidence. Your artistry will shine in a fast-paced environment where every day is an adventure. Step into a role where your skills and personality can truly stand out, and you'll love every moment of your journey with us! Your role as a Stylist Floyd's 99 As a Full-Time Stylist at Floyd's 99, you'll embrace the vibrant pulse of our retail environment. Expect to engage with clients daily, assessing their styling needs and providing expert consultations tailored to their unique personalities. Your day will be filled with exciting opportunities to showcase your creativity through haircuts, color treatments, and styling services. You will also maintain a welcoming, organized workspace while staying updated on the latest trends and techniques in the industry. Be prepared to collaborate with a passionate team and contribute to a lively atmosphere. Your schedule will include evenings and weekends, allowing you to connect with clients during peak hours and embrace the energy of our busy salon. Get ready to be part of an exhilarating daily routine that keeps you on your toes! What we're looking for in a Stylist Floyd's 99 To thrive as a Full-Time Stylist at Floyd's 99, a few essential skills and qualifications are necessary. First and foremost, you'll need a valid NC Cosmetology License, demonstrating your expertise and commitment to professional standards. Strong communication skills are crucial, as you'll engage with a diverse clientele to understand their styling needs and preferences. Creativity and a keen eye for detail will set you apart, enabling you to deliver personalized services that leave customers feeling fabulous. Proficiency with styling tools and techniques, as well as familiarity with industry products, is expected to ensure top-notch results. Additionally, a willingness to adapt and learn in a fast-paced environment will help you flourish as you keep up with the latest trends. If you have a passion for beauty and a drive for excellence, you'll find joy and success in this role! Knowledge and skills required for the position are: Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Job Description Support Salon Stylists: {45%} • Support assigned stylist with color applications, guest care, shampoos, and blowouts, • Greet guests for assigned stylist as well as others, • Attend all education requirements and classes Whether it is your first time with us, or you are an old friend, we welcome you to Modern Salon & Spa a retreat that brings beauty, relaxation and well-being into perfect balance.Above all else, Modern Salon & Spa was created as a place of well-being. \r\nBy catering to the mind, body and soul, we have created a retreat from the everyday haven of pure relaxation. \r\nModern Salon & Spa invites you to experience every aspect of our unique environment and the services we offer. \r\n\r\nWhether it is your first time with us, or you are an old friend, we welcome you to Modern Salon & Spa a retreat that brings beauty, relaxation and well-being into perfect balance.

BENEFITS Benefits of working with Sport Clips - Hardy Nation include: * Paid ongoing Training * Instant Clientele * Paid Time Off (for full-time AND part-time!) * Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance * Mental health support - provided by employer at no cost to you! * 401(k) retirement plan * Anti-fat

Brookdale Senior Living - 5326 Park Road [Medical Office Assistant] As a Receptionist at Brookdale Senior Living, you'll: Greet all visitors entering the community, answer questions, ensure visitors sign guest sheets, and answer/direct phone calls to the proper residents and staff; Sort, deliver and

Our salon in Park Towne - Charlotte, NC - (In Park Towne Village below Jason’s Deli) is looking for talented hair stylists who are passionate about cutting hair and making their clients look great! With an existing large client base, you will be joining an established team with lots of resources t

To greet and direct visitors, answer and forward telephone calls through console switchboard, maintain front office area, and handle other general office duties.Position Responsibilities and Duties:.Follow all Front Desk/Switchboard Procedures.Receive, greet and direct visitors.Operate console switc

BENEFITS Benefits of working with Sport Clips - Hardy Nation include: * Paid ongoing Training * Instant Clientele * Paid Time Off (for full-time AND part-time!) * Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance * Mental health support - provided by employer at no cost to you! * 401(k) retirement plan * Anti-fat

Senior Level Receptionist | Receptionist.ProSidian Seeks a Senior Level Receptionist for Program Support on a Contract Contingent located CONUS - Charlotte, NC Across The Mid Atlantic Region supporting strategic delivery of Government and Public Services Sector Human Capital Solutions through Tempor

Our salon in Park Towne - Charlotte, NC - (In Park Towne Village below Jason's Deli) is looking for talented hair stylists who are passionate about cutting hair and making their clients look great! With an existing large client base, you will be joining an established team with lots of resources to

Greets all visitors entering the community, answer questions, ensure visitors sign guest sheets, and answer/direct phone calls to the proper residents and staff.Sort, deliver and collect incoming/outgoing community and resident mail, and may be aske Receptionist, Administrative.

ProSidian is a Management and Operations Consulting Services Firm focusing on providing value to clients through tailored solutions based on industry leading practices.ProSidian services focus on the broad spectrum of Risk Management, Compliance, Business Process, IT Effectiveness, Energy & Sustaina

We are seeking a dedicated and professional Office Receptionist to join our team.As the first point of contact for our clients and visitors, the Office Receptionist will play a crucial role in creating a welcoming atmosphere and providing exceptional customer service.This position involves managing

Kitchen Tune-Up and Bath Tune-Up deliver innovative kitchen and bath remodels, transforming homes and client experiences nationwide.This position is for our Matthews, NC location.We are seeking a dynamic and client-focused Receptionist/Sales Support to be the welcoming face and voice for our prospec

America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retailers in the United States.The America's Best brand continues to grow, with 1000 stores and counting.Each location combines both parts of the optical equation - eyewear and eye care - into one excellent experience at a single

Kitchen Tune-Up and Bath Tune-Up deliver innovative kitchen and bath remodels, transforming homes and client experiences nationwide.This position is for our Matthews, NC location.We are seeking a dynamic and client-focused Receptionist/Sales Support to be the welcoming face and voice for our prospec

QualDerm Partners Float Prn Front Desk Receptionist.With 150+ locations in 17 states, QualDerm Partners is the largest multi-state female-founded and owned dermatology network in the U.At QualDerm we are united in our purpose: to educate, protect, and care for your skin.We are committed to bringing

Float Prn Front Desk Receptionist.With 150+ locations in 17 states, QualDerm Partners is the largest multi-state female-founded and owned dermatology network in the U.At QualDerm we are united in our purpose: to educate, protect, and care for your skin.We are committed to bringing you the very best

Maintains a clean and organized salon.

ABOUT THE ROLE As a Weekend Receptionist at our Barchester care home, youll provide the warm welcome that helps to make sure every resident and visitor feels at home with us.As the first point of contact for almost everyone who comes to the home, youll have a vitally important part to play in creati

Acts provides residents with a lifestyle that includes on-campus conveniences, services, and amenities such as casual and fine dining venues, beauty salons, fitness centers, security, healthcare, activity programs, and much more.

Kitchen Tune-Up and Bath Tune-Up deliver innovative kitchen and bath remodels, transforming homes and client experiences nationwide.This position is for our Matthews, NC location.We are seeking a dynamic and client-focused Receptionist/Sales Support to be the welcoming face and voice for our prospec

Job Title: Medical Receptionist.Our client is a reputable healthcare organization dedicated to providing innovative and compassionate care to patients with arthritis, osteoporosis, and related conditions.They are recognized for their commitment to excellence and have a team of world-renowned physici

CoreLife has created an organized, convenient, and low cost multidisciplinary platform of care for those who so often fall through the cracks of todays highly fragmented healthcare delivery system.We enhance total health by providing a multifaceted approach to obesity, chronic illnesses, the root ca

Great small business work environment.Paid time off, health insurance, dental insurance, retirement benefit, and more!.American Family Care (AFC) is one of the largest primary and urgent care companies in the U.Our state-of-the-art centers focus on the episodic treatment of acute illnesses and injur

To greet and direct visitors, answer and forward telephone calls through console switchboard, maintain front office area, and handle other general office duties.Position Responsibilities and Duties:.Follow all Front Desk/Switchboard Procedures.Receive, greet and direct visitors.Operate console switc

The Concierge-Receptionist will be responsible for enhancing the living experience for our senior residents by providing exceptional concierge and reception services.The Concierge will be the first point of contact for residents and visitors, offering personalized assistance and ensuring a welcoming

We are seeking a dedicated and professional Office Receptionist to join our team.As the first point of contact for our clients and visitors, the Office Receptionist will play a crucial role in creating a welcoming atmosphere and providing exceptional customer service.This position involves managing

Kitchen Tune-Up and Bath Tune-Up deliver innovative kitchen and bath remodels, transforming homes and client experiences nationwide.This position is for our Matthews, NC location.We are seeking a dynamic and client-focused Receptionist/Sales Support to be the welcoming face and voice for our prospec

Assistant salon managers can earn on average $13. Assist The Salon Manager With:. Maintaining salon staff by recruiting, selecting, and orienting employees.

Milan Laser Hair Removal Sales Receptionist.Milan Laser Hair Removal is one of the nation's premier laser hair removal providers.That's because we only use top of the line lasers, and all our treatments are performed by licensed medical professionals.Additionally, we guarantee our clients results fo

At Dermatologists of Central States (DOCS), we are not just one of the largest dermatology practices in the nation; we are a dedicated community passionate about skin health! With more than 200 providers across 20 practice brands and 100+ locations in 10 states, we've been transforming the lives of

Hair Stylist / Barber (Mens Grooming) Charlotte, NCCompany: Scissors & Scotch CharlotteJob Type: Full-time (Part-time available)Location: On-site in Charlotte, NCCategory: Salon / Barber / CosmetologyAbout the RoleScissors & Scotch is expanding in Charlotte and seeking experienced Hair Stylists

Recognized by Newsweek in 2024 and 2025 as one of America's Greatest Workplaces for Diversity Make Lives Better Including Your Own.If you want to work in an environment where you can become your best possible self, join us! You'll earn more than a paycheck; you can find opportunities to grow your c

Our salon in Park Towne - Charlotte, NC - (In Park Towne Village below Jason's Deli) is looking for talented hair stylists who are passionate about cutting hair and making their clients look great! With an existing large client base, you will be joining an established team with lots of resources to

Join a locally owned Great Clips salon, the world's largest salon brand, and be one of the GREATS! Whether you're new to the industry or have years behind the chair great opportunities await!! Bring Your Skills and Your Local Great Clips Salon will Provide*: * A steady flow of customers - no curre

Job Description What would you do? - The Specifics * Ensures high quality customer service while following all safety protocols.Ensures a smooth flow of customers through the store.Answers, screens, and forwards incoming phone calls in accordance with National Vision protocol.Processes and underst

Join a locally owned Great Clips salon, the world's largest salon brand, and be one of the GREATS! Whether you're new to the industry or have years behind the chairgreat opportunities await!! Your Career with Longitude Great Clips- What Youll Gain Hair Stylist, Stylist, Beauty, Salon.

We're seeking a professional, organized, and personable.This role is essential in ensuring the smooth daily operations of our office while creating a positive and professional experience for visitors, partners, and team members.Greet and assist visitors, staff, and nonprofit partners in a friendly a