Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/556136
32 ASCP Skin Deep September/October 2015 Working with independent contractors and renters will be the norm the minute you open your doors, so make sure you are fully prepared for the ins and outs of running this type of business; one mistake can lead to costly fines, penalties, and back taxes that could ultimately put your business in the red. And, if you've been an independent contractor, you've likely experienced the woes of working with poor spa management and will want to be sure your contractors and renters are happy and productive. By following this checklist, you can start—and build—your business with less worry and less debt. Management Your business should have written procedures and policies in place for all employees. But when it comes to working with independent contractors or renters, make sure you and your management team are aware that the rules are much different than employee protocols. 1. Hiring and acquiring: Hire thoughtfully, hire deliberately, and hire based on entrepreneurialism. Fostering an entrepreneurial culture will lead to success for not only your spa, but also for your employees and contractors. 2. Communication: Honest communication is key when working with contractors. While you cannot dictate when, how, or who your contractors work with, having open lines of communication will keep expectations clear. 3. Training: Are you training your independent contractors? Are you paying them for the time spent training? If so, you've stepped into an employer/employee relationship. For example, requiring your contractors to attend your spa's training sessions is strong evidence of control and will hurt you in the event of an audit. Any in-house training should be required for employees only. 4. Classification: Separate worker functions by worker classifications. For example, your employee job functions should not cross over into a contractor's functions. Job functions should be clearly defined and never blurred. An exciting trend is fueling the booming beauty industry— skin care experts, estheticians, and dermatologists are becoming spa owners. In fact, the US spa industry has seen some of the most exciting growth: the market currently generates $16 billion in annual sales, while employment is projected to grow 40 percent within the next decade. 1 This growth may inspire you to hang out your own shingle, but be warned: many risks lie hidden beneath the excitement of opening your own spa. Without the proper education, training, and resources, you could find yourself in a world of confusion. Opening your own spa is an exciting endeavor. Knowing the risks is the best way to avoid them. Open for By Amy Washle