Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/142672
help you attain your goals. If you are simply converting a massage practice into a sole-practitioner spa, the expense of hiring a consultant or private trainer is probably not warranted. If, however, you are hiring employees, constructing a new facility, or purchasing a significant amount of equipment, you may be in need of your own private expert. Often, therapists only realize this when they are in the middle of their spa project, and the consultant is called at the last minute to help save a failing venture. Consultants can be of service at every stage of spa development; however, I encourage you to explore the various consulting options available as early as possible if you think your project might benefit from this kind of expertise. Consultants are not cheap. Some work on a monthly-retainer basis, and others charge by the day or by the project, but in any case you should be prepared to spend thousands of dollars. There are three main categories of spa consultants: trainers, full-service consultants, and vendors/suppliers. Trainers. Often, the very same people who teach workshops and offer trainings are also consultants. These individuals are often the most reasonably priced and most willing to work with individual therapists and small business owners. Their primary expertise is often hands-on training, but they can also offer advice on layout, design, purchasing, hiring, and more. Full-Service Consultants. These consultants work primarily with large developers who are building multimillion dollar spas. They offer management training, architectural services, hiring and training services, purchasing, and more. Often, these consultants have worked for years at major spa properties and now help others launch their own larger projects. To discover many of the professionals in this category, visit the International Spa Association (ISPA) website at www.experienceispa.com and look in the Education & Resources section. You'll find more than 100 spa consultants listed. Vendors/Suppliers. You can also take advantage of the consulting services provided by vendors and suppliers of spa equipment and products. These services are often billed as free, but don't let that fool you. What it really means is free for people who are spending thousands of dollars on products and equipment. Still, this can be an economical option. If you are going to be spending the money on products and equipment anyway, why not get some consulting with the deal? One word of advice: the consulting you receive from vendors and suppliers will always be prejudiced in favor of the particular products and equipment being offered. Try to make your decisions about your products and equipment before you engage this type of service so you will not be unduly swayed by your consultant's opinion. Vendor/