TAKING STEPS TOWARD INCLUSIVITY
Changes to policies and procedures are key to the ongoing work of making spas more inclusive for trans and non-binary guests and staff . But you don ’ t have to rewrite the entire company handbook to make a meaningful difference . In most cases , the guidance below can help make your spa more inclusive right away !
Consider your Pronouns
Even if you don ’ t currently employ transgender or non-binary team members , include your pronouns on business cards , email signatures and social media profiles ( yes , even if you are cisgender ). This normalizes the actions that trans and non-binary people take every day and indicates to guests and potential employees that your spa is a safe place for those individuals . Also , instead of assuming someone ’ s pronouns , offer your own and ask theirs .
Examine Your Language
Eliminate gendered language to make your spa ’ s offerings inclusive of all genders . Ask guests how they would like to be addressed on the day of their service rather than assuming . Instead of asking guests if they prefer a male or female provider , ask “ Do you have a preference in provider today ?” Guests can share any preference for a provider ’ s gender in response . Gendered language can also be excised from forms and paperwork , as well as promotional materials — after all , a scrub , day package or facial can be enjoyed by people of any gender .
Challenge Your Physical Space
Imagine walking through your space or experiencing the guest journey at your spa as a trans or non-binary person and ask yourself : what barriers to inclusion do I face ? Commonly , locker rooms and changing areas put trans and non-binary individuals in difficult positions . Is there an available treatment room or washroom that you can utilize as an all-gender changing area ? Is it possible to eliminate gender-specific signage and areas altogether ?
Create Emotional Safety
In a caring way , provide trans and non-binary guests with realistic expectations for their experience in your spa . Consider the following : “ We have a private area for you to change and shower , however the entrance to our jacuzzi and sauna is through a gendered space . Are you comfortable with this ?” Or , alternately : “ We cannot provide a separate space to shower and change , but please let me know if you are comfortable changing in the treatment room prior to your service ”
KÍRS JAY is an experience coordinator at a luxury spa and hotel in Vancouver , British Columbia . Using their expertise and lived experience as a transgender and non-binary person , they engage industry professionals in conversations regarding gender inclusivity with a focus in hospitality .
32 PULSE ■ MARCH 2021