Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/556136
Create your free business website! www.ascpskincare.com 23 One of the major challenges associated with working at a luxury spa is that most have few repeat guests, so practitioners miss having ongoing relationships with clients over time. You also don't have as much creative freedom as you may have in other settings. Typically, protocols are in place and you are expected to follow them. Product lines are often chosen for you. You will also probably have to wear a uniform and stick to rather strict grooming standards. This loss of personal freedom is not for everyone. Days can be long: 8–12 hours a day, with limited breaks and the expectation of performing 6–8 treatments. And, most luxury resort spas are the busiest on weekends and holidays; you need to be willing to work during those times. What Spa Directors Want How do you get your foot in the door? What are the skills spa directors look for? When it comes to hard skills, it's pretty straightforward. • Understand and be able to distinguish between different types of skin conditions. • Have a good understanding of major ingredients in the market today and be able to separate the hype from the promise. • Know how to effectively wax— everything from Brazilians to manscaping. • Be an expert at gentle, yet effective extractions. • Know the steps to a full European- style facial, including hand and foot treatments. • Be able to apply different makeup looks for a wide variety of guest types. And have excellent massage skills. In other words, multiple licenses are highly coveted. On the softer side, directors are looking for people who have the ability to listen—to guests, to management, and to each other. Along that vein, divas need not apply. Spas are made of teams. Resort Spa Trends Brazilian bikini waxing (male and female) Educated guests A willingness to spend to see results Longer, more luxurious services Resistance to nickel and diming (and hard upselling) Most luxury resort spas are the busiest on weekends and holidays; you need to be willing to work during those times.