Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/637956
www.ascpskincare.com 57 Network, Network, and Then Network Some More You are going to need a network, so get your net working by joining a few professional organizations. The chances are good that your city or state has its own group that hosts networking events; the camaraderie will prove invaluable, and the friendships forged can last a lifetime. National organizations provide unique networking and educational opportunities. Beyond Associated Skin Care Professionals, here are a few others to consider: • National Aesthetic Spa Network www.nasnpro.com • National Coalition of Estheticians, Manufacturers/ Distributors & Associations (NCEA) www.ncea.tv • Professional Beauty Association (PBA) www.probeauty.org students remember good educators—and some may even become students at the advanced classes you will be teaching on your area of expertise (for a nice fee). Give back to your community. Have a heart for seniors? Contact local nursing homes or assisted- living residences and pitch the idea of spa days for those ladies and gents who cannot get out and who would love to have a mini facial. You can also offer no-cost treatment to the hardworking staff. Be an eternal student. If you are always taking classes, love to learn, and want to take your education to the next level, consider getting your international CIDESCO credential; it's like having a PhD in esthetics. Becoming a CIDESCO Diplomate is challenging, but so rewarding, and it will set you apart in the industry. You can also become certified by the National Coalition of Estheticians, Manufacturers/ Distributors & Associations, which is the highest skin care credential available in the United States. Attending trade shows and conferences is another way to get more education, network, and stay on top of trends and developments in our industry. I know it seems like a daunting task to build a business, plan marketing strategies to attract and keep customers, stay on top of the latest and greatest the world of esthetics has to offer, attend trade shows and conferences, and still have time to have or raise a family and pursue other interests, but I am confident that with a little planning and a lot of action, you can do it. So go ahead and get your plan on, remembering that a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.