Finding your dream job
With the next generation of therapists embarking on exciting careers within the spa and beauty industries, we turn to spa manager of multi award-winning Galgorm Resort & Spa and Professional Beauty Brand Ambassador Tara Moore to find out how you can stand out from the competition.
Build your experience
Train as much as you can on families and friends to progress your skills, also look for employers who offer alternative roles in spas or salons that will give you an insight into the working environment. An assistant role is perfect to get your foot in the door!
Like most industries, it can be a competitive market, so take time to complete your CV; although you may not have a wealth of experience, you will have hobbies and interests which can really help you stand out by giving the employer an understanding of what you enjoy outside of work.
Do your homework
The biggest mistake applicants make is not doing their research on the spa/salon they are interviewing for. In the digital age information is available at our fingertips. Use it to see what your employer has to offer, any accolades they have achieved and what products and treatments they carry out.
Listen to the questions being asked and answer as honestly as possible. It’s human nature to want to keep our weaknesses to ourselves, but remember we are not all good at everything, we all have something to learn.
Make a good impression
Arrive early and ensure your uniform is immaculate, it says a lot for your character when you take pride in your appearance and also arrive early to prepare for the day ahead. Take any training that is offered and learn everything inside out as this will help you as much as your employers.
Communication and empathy are key skills for any therapist
As a Therapist speaking to guests and building a rapport is important when it comes to the client experience. This means they can fully relax and enjoy the treatment, safe in the knowledge that they are in great hands. A lot of guests also like to tell you their life story and can possibly be there for lots of different reasons, having empathy and understating for others is essential.
Think about your progression
Self progression is always good as it shows you are interested in therapy as a career, however employers should offer training and progression in certain areas that perhaps you can’t always do easily. Training plans if offered are a great way to progress and learn new skills; this can be stock take procedure/completion of rosters/cross training in other departments.
Once you've settled into your new role don’t be afraid to ask your manager for feedback, and ask him/her how they feel you are getting on. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions yourself and broach the subject of progression and if there is a payscale in place.
Tara Moore is the Spa Manager of the Galgorm Resort and Spa, and a Brand Ambassador for Professional Beauty, providing feedback and insights of the beauty and spa industry.
