Matthew Dower
Illustrating the Way in the Workplace
August 14, 2012
As a leader, all eyes are on you. Here are some simple ways great business leaders indirectly encourage positive behavior in their team. Instead of mandates and new rules, which are often met with resistance, see how far you can get by merely setting a good example: Read a business, motivational or self-improvement book. Bring it to work with you, talk about it, and leave it in the break room. Take it a step further and establish a shared-book shelf...
Avoiding the Revolving Door Begins with Leadership
July 3, 2012
Employees quit leaders not companies. A good leader must know and accept that people often quit not because they don’t like their jobs, but because of actions, inaction or behavior on the part of the spa’s leadership . It’s a tough thing to do, but taking ownership in a employee relationship gone bad is part of being a leader. The question is, will you learn from your past mistakes? Here are some strategies to make sure employees don’t quit you:...
The Search for New Guests Lies Right Outside Your Door.
May 8, 2012
Going to the spa is so much more than just getting a massage or facial. It's a chance to relax, hang out in a cool environment, and catch up with a friend. A spa treatment is as much a social experience as it is a service. Atmosphere and personality are what separate one spa from another, and for this reason, a person's spa choice can be based as much on these attributes as on intended treatment. A great way to...
5 Tips For Successful Spa Desk Training
April 24, 2012
Well-trained spa desk associates are the gatekeepers to your business’ success. Studies have shown the most successful, productive employees are those who have received thorough training. Moreover, they tend to be more committed to their jobs and have the strongest stake in the company’s future. By that token, a company must make a cultural commitment to training. Not only does instruction arm your spa desk with needed professional and technical skills, but it also shows that you are invested in...
Profiting From Your Product Lines
April 3, 2012
Effective inventory management is a function of having good and timely information, forecasting and planning. I have found there are five key factors when it comes to inventory management. 1. Less is more: About 80% of a spa’s product sales come from 20% of the products available on a daily basis. Keep a good “cushion” of inventory on top sellers. The majority of guests do not visit the spa on a regular basis. So, if you are out of stock...
Spring sales slump-buster
March 13, 2012
March and April can be two of the slowest months of the year. It’s well past the holidays and not quite summer, so would-be guests have little reason to indulge. Incenting them to book a treatment can be a challenge. Have some fun with your guests this spring and launch a “Spring Cleaning” event! Encourage guests to rid themselves of old, expired products and refresh their skin care routines with personal product consultations. Book appointments or hold an event where...
Turning the ordinary into something extraordinary
February 28, 2012
As unique as some treatment menus can be, nearly all spas offer treatment staples the vast majority of guests choose to enjoy. These standards can be found from the high-rise hotels of New York City, to the desert resorts of the Southwest. They are the spa industry’s bread and butter, but they don’t have to be boring. Present guests with an “enhancement menu” at check-in so they can upgrade their booked treatment for an additional charge. Menu items may include...
Matthew Dower