be transparent and invite conversation . Second , be sure the new structure is well defined , with clearly stated goals and objectives . Remember , a compensation model — no matter what type — should feel like an opportunity , not a life sentence .
Goals , Processes and Communication
The importance of communication , of course , goes well beyond the issue of compensation . In fact , I would argue that , along with clear goals and processes , communication is the most important element of a successful business . A big reason for that is that communication is essential to establishing a “ we-first ” ( rather than an “ I-first ”) culture . If the “ great pause ” forced upon us by the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything , it is the importance of building personal connections , showing people that we value them and creating an environment where people can thrive . Goals and communication are key to accomplishing all three .
If you have not created clear , measurable goals for yourself , for each team member and for the business as a whole , I encourage you to spend some time developing those . Just as a ship captain relies on a chart to navigate , spa and resource partner leaders need goals that can help point the entire business in the right direction and sets them up for success .
Once you have defined those goals , create a roadmap highlighting the goals that are important to you and breaks them down into team goals that are communicated to everyone . Inviting team members to offer feedback on these goals can also create added buy-in and open leaders ’ eyes to goals they might not have otherwise considered .
Once those goals are established . I encourage you to do daily stand-up meetings with the team where you not only communicate the goals of the day but where you also celebrate the team , talk about the daily forecast and rally the team for success .
I also suggest not waiting to communicate with your team about their performance on an annual basis but to set up quarterly one-on-one meetings , taking at least 30 minutes to really connect with every member of the team and what their own personal
SIDE NOTES : goals and aspirations are so that you can help advance their professional development . In turn , you can discuss their performance , their challenges and how you can support them so that they are successful in reaching the goals you set for them as their leader . Then , the annual performance review is a breeze because you have maintained an open line of communication throughout the year .
This “ great pause ” of 2020 and 2021 has given many of us in the spa industry a fresh new perspective . We have had the opportunity to look at our businesses and our lives with new purpose . If you are fortunate enough to be reading this , you are fortunate to have the opportunity to begin again in a way that will not only benefit your business and your life but also the community that you serve . I can ’ t wait to see what the people in this magnificent industry make of it . ■
● An agile business adapts to changing consumer trends and is better positioned for recovery in 2021 and beyond .
● An agile business helps employees flourish and when they flourish , they bring more value to your business .
● Creating a good company culture is oftentimes more important than salary for overall job satisfaction
● Creating a win-win compensation model is critical to the success of your business . Motivate your employees with a solid compensation structure that is good for the business and helps to create employee loyalty .
● Invest in your people , and they will invest in you and your brand .
JULIE PANKEY is an internationally recognized spa director , consultant and wellness tourism expert . With over 28 years of experience , she has contributed to the development of multiple brands within the health , wellness , spa and tourism sectors . Over her vast career , Julie has cultivated an extensive network of trusted relationships with some of the most well-known , distinguished spas and resorts in the world . As a thought leader and innovator , Julie created the SpaHive Community to connect spa and wellness professionals through a private online community , education sessions , pop-up boutiques and special events . Julie serves as the Spa and Wellness Tourism Consultant for The B & B Team ® and Professional Services Commissioner by NACCAS . www . jmpankey . com
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