In this, the largest growing industry globally, there are many therapists who have entered “fly-by-night” courses, after which they have received a piece of paper or nothing at all. This leaves them with a non-certified certificate or none; but worse than that it leaves them with a waste of their time and money spent on studies of no value into the future.
25 years ago, BTI made the decision that Quality in our Educational offerings will not be compromised across any of our 16 campuses. We believe in giving our students a future and potential career forever.
In order for a hotel to have a 5* status, they have to have a Spa in the hotel. But what would it take to achieve a 7* status?
The criteria which are assessed:
- LOCATION – the 7* venue must be located inside an iconic structure of great value to the city.
- PRIVACY – the hotel must be big on privacy with more suites than rooms,24/7 security, a private chef and a butler.
- SERVICE – the guest makes the rules, their every need is carefully and accurately attended to.
Let’s bring this back to the Beauty Industry and ask the question of “how can we differentiate between a 5* Aesthetician and a 7* Aesthetician?”
I have had the honour and privilege to inspect Spas all around the world on behalf of World Spa and Wellness Organisation, as well as judge in South Africa salons and spas throughout our beautiful country on behalf of Professional Beauty.
I have hence experienced the absolute best of the best. Which has turned me into a very discerning guest and Aesthetician. Perhaps I am even one of those guests whom you may shudder to have in your spa because I have seen the ultimate in the good, the bad and yes … even the ugly!
It is undoubted that in order to become a 7* highest level Aesthetician, you need to start at the very beginning, with is: ‘Choosing the best learning institution for the education possible’.
- Use discernment when choosing the best quality possible in a training centre in your city to undertake your courses.
- Research the reputation of the training centre, search all the social media platforms of the college to observe the standards, the student ambience and be super critical of the reviews.
- Enquire about an International qualification, as this will take you to the higher stars immediately.
- Look for a college which has accreditation linked to it because it means that they have been checked on all aspects.
- Ensure the chosen college is approved by the required training authorities.
- Ask which products you would be using during training. This sets you up for quality education.
- Check out the facility of the training centre to ensure they have washable floors, plumbing in the practical classroom and an environment of professionalism.
- Evaluate the quality of the training material – i.e.: Theory books, online learning options, assessment methods.
- Establish if the college will assist with work placement for their graduates. Who do they choose to be associated with?
- The network that you establish during your training period will assist you to step up to the highest level to enable you to learn, and earn, what you so well deserve.
- Is the training you will receive current? Or is it 20th century old?
- Do the educators have the correct qualifications i.e.: Assessors/Facilitators/Moderators?
- Does the college offer a wide variety of courses? The full package will of course ensure you can service your guests at a 7* level.
- Client Relations Management is an absolute must, as this also focuses on Ethics and Professionalism.
- Are there opportunities to study the latest Sustainable Spa management course to ensure that you are able to work in a 7* Spa? Understanding sustainability and ethical employment is so important.
The 2nd step on becoming a 7* Aesthetician will come about when you open your Spa/Salon or choose to work in one which is at a 7* level:
- You will be trained on how to develop signature treatments, unique and exceptional journeys to create in the spa, which can only come about by fine education.
- How about offering personalised products for your guests?
- Welcome your guests with the best champagne, exotic fruits and sweet treats. Including a multitude of drink choices. What a luxurious treat for the senses!
- Send a driver to collect your guest and deliver them back home; have a concierge ready for when they arrive at your Spa door.
- Give them a Personal escort and therapist when they journey around the Spa, exclusive to them for that day.
- Ensure they have their choice of fragrance in the room, music of their selection, products of their choice, temperature set to their desire and pressure guidance discussed before they enter into their exclusive space.
- This space will include a dressing room, a full bathroom with all personalised amenities, the treatment room and even a relaxation area.
- Give your guest a gift when they leave the Spa. Something memorable which will entice her/him back again. This could be an aromatherapy oil you have blended exclusively for them with their choice oils to take home.
Choosing the right training centre as your 1st step will ensure that your journey catapults you into the 2nd step to a 7* level, thinking out of the box with unique and powerfully influential concepts and journeys.
Thereafter, you can be selective with where you want to work. Yes. You can create your future path, because you have the correct qualifications and knowledge to guarantee a beautiful career as a 7* therapist.
Go out there and do the best trade test you could ever perform for your potential employer. Showcase your skills to the best of your ability. And present yourself in the most professional, ethical and advanced way possible.
Remember that first impressions are lasting impressions. So, start off at the beginning with your best foot in front of you.
Don’t ever imagine that you have done enough and if you feel that you have, then do more.
Best of luck to all out there in this most wonderful industry of ours!