TALENT TOPICS
BY JESSICA SHEA
A Tactical Approach to Spa Leadership
WE SIT IN THE MIDST OF THE MOST CHALLENGING TIME the spa industry has ever faced . Although many spas have reopened to significant demand , spa teams are dealing with the previously unimaginable challenges of operating in a pandemic , within a tide of openings , closures , sanctions and quarantines . Even for those of us who rely on mindfulness practices to navigate these times , the present moment does not often feel particularly good . The personal stress and the professional healing expectations that have been laid upon spa teams is significant — and the empathetic leadership required to lift them up will be a driving factor in future success .
But without darkness , there is no light . And when we take pause to pick our heads up out of the daily gloom , we can see an incredibly bright future . Wellness , travel , selfcare and social connection are all waiting quietly in the wings for safety to prevail , and when unleashed , spas will be busier than ever . There is huge pent-up desire to experience something new , with someone you love , while improving your health and well-being .
The biggest challenge for spas in this moment is finding a balance — between managing the grit of today ’ s operations while preparing for the brilliant opportunities of tomorrow .
46 PULSE ■ MARCH 2021