Skin care professionals share a common goal: to achieve business success. That goal, while admirable and necessary, can be far more elusive than many professionals realize. Many may have the required licenses and skills, even the experience useful in opening a spa, but business success Skin care professionals share a common goal: to achieve business success. That goal, while admirable and necessary, can be far more elusive than many professionals realize. Many may have the required licenses and skills, even the experience useful in opening a spa, but business success depends on a longer list of capabilities. A number of the more important competencies are: cost control and an understanding of profit margins; marketing and social media communication; customer service excellence; employee recruitment and leadership; service and retail sales skills; and organization and time management.

In addition to the above, there is motivation and inspiration to consider. Business ownership can be a tough, emotionally-draining experience, especially when expectations are not realized. One can feel scared, isolated, and confused, not knowing what decisions to make or the next steps to take in problem solving. A skilled mentor can be of great help in these moments. 

Sometimes, overwhelmed spa managers hesitate to reveal their career weaknesses to others. Many feel that, because they voluntarily took on the role they are in, they should also know how to execute it well. Others fear the potential cost of employing a business expert or worry they will be required to perform tasks they dislike. This leads to more delay, stress, and opportunity losses that can far exceed whatever mentoring or consulting fees one might pay. Spas can lose money and even face closure. In this situation, spas can hire a business mentor or consultant who can walk them through adjusting service prices, changing their retail collection, and training employees to boost sales. Spas can even see revenue growth within the first year of implementing changes. 

There are several factors to consider when deciding to hire the services of a business mentor. First, admit help is needed. Next, be open to change. Most mentors will uncover mistakes, large and small, when reviewing the spa; they will recommend changes to current methods. Prepare to hear this and take positive action. Find someone who understands. Similar to selecting a psychotherapist, professionals want a mentor they trust, feel understands them, and has their best interests in mind. Know outcome expectations in advance of contracting with a business mentor. An open-ended relationship may feel good but could end up being expensive and having little impact on the spa. Be patient. Change takes time and results may come gradually.

Whatever the choice, know there is no shame in being underprepared for the job of business owner. However, putting off a cure for the ills of a spa or skin care practice, large or small, may spell the end of it. So, do not let embarrassment or pride get in the way of being prudent!