Stop the Revolving Door: How to Hire Front Desk Stars Who Stay, Sell, and Shine

Stop the Revolving Door: How to Hire Front Desk Stars Who Stay, Sell, and Shine

If you’re a spa, salon, or wellness business owner, chances are you’ve felt like you’re stuck on a hamster wheel—constantly hiring, firing, and training front desk staff. It’s exhausting, not to mention expensive. Every time you onboard a new hire who doesn’t work out, you’re not just losing time—you’re bleeding money that could go toward new equipment, a fresh remodel, or even better: bonuses and raises for the real rock stars already on your team. Imagine rewarding reliability instead of constantly managing chaos.

The truth is, your front desk isn’t just your first impression—it’s your sales team. When your business relies on monthly memberships, you need people who aren’t just friendly—they need to be consistent, accountable, and motivated to sell. So how do you break the cycle and start building a reliable, high-performing front desk team? It starts with hiring differently.

After managing high-performing spas, I learned the hard way who not to hire. But I also began to recognize key traits that set successful employees apart. My top four? A sense of humor, a stable home life, a happy, bubbly personality, and active listening skills. These aren’t just “nice to haves.” They’re signs of someone who can create a positive client experience, handle stress without cracking, and stay grounded even when business is booming (or slow).

But there’s another side to hiring that’s often overlooked: personal accountability. The best team members aren’t just charming—they’re driven. Look for applicants who have clear financial goals, not just a vague interest in wellness. Ask them how they spend downtime. Do they look for ways to help out? Are they curious and eager to learn how to close a sale? During interviews, get real. Ask, “Tell me about a time you had a slow shift. What did you do?” or “What’s a personal goal you’re working toward right now?” Their answers will tell you everything about their motivation and mindset.

Finding people who want to grow with your business means being more intentional during the hiring process. Prioritize personality over just experience. Watch how they interact with your team and even your clients if you bring them in for a working interview. And remember: you’re not just hiring a receptionist—you’re hiring someone who could become the face of your brand and a key player in your growth.

If this resonates with you, take a moment to reflect on your current hiring approach. What changes could you make to attract people who not only fit your culture but elevate it? A few small shifts can lead to bigger wins—for your team, your business, and your bottom line.