Skin care professionals spend roughly one third of their lives at work, so it goes without saying – employees want to be happy at their workplace. Moreover, people are looking for a stimulating, friendly, and creative environment that allows for growth. When that is met, it allows individuals to have a healthy work-life balance.

HAPPY EMPLOYEES EQUAL A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS

Employers creating workplaces that encourage staff retention begins with strong leadership and a cohesive team – this is vital to the heart of one’s business. Having the right staff in place also plays a key role in a business’s success. This begins with thorough interviews to make sure the potential employee is the right fit for a spa.

The main objective for an employer should be to build a healthy work environment. One way to achieve this is to ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, so it is imperative to provide clear and concise directions. Having an employee handbook for each staff member to read and sign will document they understand all the polices. Also, when a spa owner shares their vision, it allows every employee to see how they fit into the big picture. Employers should strive to build a culture where employees feel valued and heard. This will help to reduce staff turnover.

Employees should have the ability to contribute to the team and receive positive encouragement from their employer. When constructive feedback is provided, it fosters an environment where the staff feels empowered. Satisfied employees give 150% to every task assigned. Additionally, high-quality work and dedication starts top to down. It is critical to be a mentor and display the work ethic desired. This will ultimately create strong work production.

Another thing to consider is that strong companies are built on strong relationships. Positive employee relations begin by building a good rapport with staff members. Be as personable as possible because working well with others makes things run more smoothly. Positivity and laughter are contagious so try to make interactions meaningful. Staff will mimic the employer’s enthusiasm and provide clients with the same respect.

However, we are human, and humans come with flaws. Sometimes those flaws present themselves in conflict with a supervisor or another employee. Therefore, open communication between the staff and employer is paramount for resolution. Also, encourage staff members to resolve issues between themselves when possible. When an employer must intervene, a private location should be provided to discuss any issues. Private conversation should not happen in front of other employees. The same goes for an employee who wishes to discuss an issue with their employer.

Difficult conversations can be hard to have because most people do not like confrontation. It is important to remember the goal for every tough conversation is a positive outcome. This can be achieved by changing the mindset of the employer. The situation can be controlled by taking a few deep breaths and deciding the meeting will be constructive.

Key ideas to remember when addressing a conflict:

• Never get emotional
• Nip issue in the bud quickly
• Be direct and specific – state the facts clearly
• Be empathetic
• Listen to their side (if the conflict is between co-workers hear both sides)
• Consider their point of view
• Allow for questions
• Come to a mutual understanding
• Document meetings
• Create a detailed plan for a resolution

Even the best staff members can fall short occasionally; some situations may require a sit-down meeting. Here are some critical points for providing constructive feedback:

• Be human.
• Don’t sugarcoat issues as it robs an employee of their growth.
• State the facts observed and how it has impacted their work performance.
• Inform them every error is an opportunity for improvement. Have a two-way conversation and ask them how they think they can improve.
• Encourage all staff to ask for help, this leads to less mistakes in the future.
• Document and develop a follow-up plan to ensure it has been corrected.

Conversations are crucial to the fluidity of business. And the most significant take away is that strong employee relations are essential to a healthy work atmosphere. The above tips are useful for both employers and employees to follow. Always remember to be professional, stay calm, and treat each other with respect. When a meeting does not go as planned, take some time to reflect on how to improve for future conversations. 

Carlee Clark is licensed aesthetician and graduate of The Aesthetic Science Institute. She oversees all student enrollment processes, as well as Aesthetic Science Institute policies and procedures. Clark has over 20 years of sales, marketing, and management experience — all of which are incorporated into her daily practice as the institute director. She works closely with student and staff on preparation for job placement, interview skills, and professional etiquette. Clark’s dedication to the profession, both educationally and practically, is the foundation for her essential role in helping others create promising futures.