Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/142672
tools for opening a spa Assessing Your Level of Commitment Many therapists have considered opening a spa, or at least expanding their massage services to include spa offerings. The idea, while initially exciting, soon becomes quite daunting. When it becomes apparent how much work is involved, a large number of therapists back away from the challenge, but not before already spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on training or equipment they did not really need. In order to save time and money, it is important to assess your level of commitment. Take this brief Commitment Level Assessment Test to find out where you stand. 1. Have you put on paper the amount you are capable of spending on your spa plans? Yes ___ No ___ 2. Have you researched your local marketplace, determined how many other spa businesses are in operation, and gotten an idea how successful they are? Yes ___ No ___ 3. Have you visited other spas in your area to determine what customers are looking for and what level of service is provided? Yes ___ No ___ 4. ave you asked other professionals about the challenges of opening a spa business in your area? H Yes ___ No ___ 5. Have you checked with your local zoning and licensing authorities to determine what, if any, new paperwork you will have to fill out in order to open a spa business? Yes ___ No ___ 6. Have you asked about the average pay for therapists and other employees in local spas? Yes ___ No ___ 7. Have you begun researching spa retail products and private labeling options, knowing most spas rely on retail sales for a crucial percentage of their income? Yes ___ No ___ 8. Have you determined how much square footage you will need and if you can afford it? Yes ___ No ___ 9. Have you researched compensation options and determined whether you should pay employees a flat hourly fee or a commission? Yes ___ No ___ 10. Do you have a marketing strategy in mind that will emphasize your unique strengths and set you apart from your competition? Yes ___ No ___ You will notice none of the 10 points listed here requires you to spend any money. If you are not willing to address these points, or at least a majority of them, then you need to reassess your level of commitment. Once you are in the midst of opening a spa or expanding your practice into spa modalities, problems will inevitably arise, and it is best to determine, at an early stage, your willingness to confront them.