Why Hiring Seasoned Professionals Could Be Your Spa’s Secret Weapon
I didn’t enter the Spa industry until I was in my 40’s, and I’m grateful for all those owners and managers who spent a little extra time with me learning their scheduling software and all the other technical computer stuff for which I wasn’t familiar.
Fortunately, after my initial slowness in learning and adapting to new systems I had never worked with, I quickly adapted to the scheduling software and understood the “inner workings” of operating in a Spa and all the thought that went into pairing the correct service provider with specific customers. My age and experience with understanding people - as well as my extensive use as a customer - for specific products and services led new customers and members to appreciate that I knew what I was talking about and I wasn’t just trying to get a sale! My age worked to my advantage in attaining retail and membership sales as well as building trust in my recommendations for upgrades and services they may want to try for future appointments!
Also, because I was raised in the era of “the customer is always right” - even though we now understand in these days of the “Karen” that that’s not necessarily true anymore, I always gave exceptional customer service. Everyone who walked through the door was properly greeted with a smile and an enthusiasm for seeing their faces, and I used their name and said it correctly too! I absolutely loved showing them how what we offered was made just for them and what they were looking to achieve. And because every customer and member felt valued, I never had to deal with complaints - which is usually at the root of many problems - people who don’t feel valued and sometimes will resort to “bad attention” if they didn’t get enough caring attention. SO……………………………………
What’s the secret to growing a profitable spa business?
It’s not just about offering the latest wellness trends or top-notch services. It’s about the people who deliver those experiences. Yet, many spa owners overlook one of the most valuable talent pools available: seasoned professionals with years of experience under their belt - even if they’ve never worked in a Spa or similar business before.
Why Experience is Your Spa’s Superpower: The Benefits of Hiring Seasoned Pros
1. Proven Reliability
Experienced professionals show up on time, every time.
Their consistency keeps the business running like clockwork, providing customers with a smooth, dependable experience.
VIP treatment becomes the norm, ensuring every client feels valued.
2. Grace Under Pressure
They’ve handled every type of customer scenario imaginable—late arrivals, cancellations, and difficult conversations.
Their calm, professional demeanor helps de-escalate conflicts and keeps clients coming back.
3. In-Depth Product Knowledge
They often know your products and services inside out—and might even be your customers themselves!
From skincare solutions to the benefits of Red Light therapy, CBD oil, Salt Stone therapy, or Cold Plunge they’re confident in making recommendations.
They easily upsell treatments and services, helping boost retail and membership sales.
4. Stability and Loyalty
For seasoned employees, job satisfaction is often tied more to purpose than paycheck.
They value being part of something meaningful and focus on adding value to your business.
However, don’t forget to show them appreciation with raises and promotions—they bring value far beyond their salary.
5. Initiative and Problem-Solving
Once they master your scheduling software and processes, they work proactively to solve problems before they arise.
Their experience helps them anticipate needs, creating a calm, stress-free environment for everyone on the team.
6. Customer Connection & Revenue Growth
These pros have a natural ability to connect with clients from all walks of life.
Their warm and personal approach makes customers feel valued, which drives memberships and retail sales effortlessly.
In many ways, they become your best marketing tool—promoting loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals without even trying.
Age and Experience: The Secret Weapon You’ve Been Overlooking
When you’re sifting through resumes, it’s tempting to focus on younger candidates, because let’s face it, working as Front Desk or Sales Associate pays just a little bit above minimum wage. But the truth is, employees with a few more life experiences offer a treasure trove of benefits. They bring reliability, depth of knowledge, and unmatched professionalism. And, if you listen closely, they might even offer insightful pointers on how to improve your business and drive more revenue, because many of them have worked in management before and now just want a part-time job to take care of things they’re retirement income doesn’t cover or a fancy vacation they’re for which they’re saving. Just because they’ve chosen to work part-time doesn’t mean they’re worthless. It just means they now have different priorities. They’re wisdom didn’t go away when they walked away from “corporate America”. In fact, it may have increased a bit due to having more time to concentrate on learning new things instead of being at work 40 - 60 hours a week.
The Big Question
So, the next time you’re hiring, will you take a chance on someone with a bit more experience and wisdom? The rewards—both for your business and your clients—might surprise you.
