Salon & Spa Management Training Curriculum

What does a salon or spa manager do?
A salon or spa manager oversees the day-to-day operations of the salon/spa. Day-to-day operations include hiring and training employees and delegating tasks amongst them, ordering and selling supplies, paying the bills, handling public relations and advertising, and making sure everyone works well together so the business runs as smoothly as possible.

What do I need to become a salon or spa manager?
Excellent people skills are a must when it comes to managing a salon or spa. Managers must be able to work with many different individuals, all with varying personalities. These include customers, coworkers, vendors, etc. Managers must be able to understand the needs and behaviors of both their customers and employees.

Communication and training skills are also important. The beauty industry is constantly changing and evolving: trends come and go, breakthroughs and innovations are made, new products are created, etc. Staying up-to-date is crucial to the success of any salon or spa. Managers must stay abreast of the changes in their field and be able to train and retrain employees as necessary.

Requirements for becoming a salon or spa manager differ by establishment. Some salon or spa owners may not require their managers to have any licenses or certifications, while others may expect managers to have formal training in salon or spa management. Some may even require managers to have a certificate or diploma in cosmetology, aesthetics or business management. For most, knowledge and experience of small business operations is a must. Also important (but not always necessary) is a background in the beauty industry. Many salon and spa managers started out as receptionists, hairdressers, massage therapists, nail technicians, etc., and worked their way up.

What will I learn in salon and spa management training?
Salon and spa management training may include courses in leadership, customer care and satisfaction, effective salesmanship, advertising, health and safety compliance, business operations, business building, and money management. Training and certification workshops are usually offered as well.

How much money will I earn as a salon or spa manager?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics places the annual salary of a salon manager at $30,000 to $50,000. However, a salon or spa manager's salary often depends on the location and size of the salon/spa. Managers also make a commission on products sold and services rendered.

Do I have what it takes to become a salon or spa manager?
A good salon or spa manager should definitely enjoy their work. They should be interested in and familiar with all salon and spa procedures, products, services and technologies, and be able to keep up with the ever-changing trends in their field. Good managers also know how to create a fun and relaxed environment for their customers and employees. They know how to handle problems and complaints while remaining professional and maintaining an even temperament. Salon or spa managers are familiar with all roles within their workplace and are able to make sure all roles are filled effectively. They are able to recognize room for improvement and distribute tasks accordingly. Good salon or spa managers understand the needs of their customers. They make sure these needs are met to establish and ensure a steady, loyal and ever-growing clientele.

This page should have answered the following questions:

What does a salon and spa manager do?

What skills are required to become a salon or spa manager?

How much will I earn as a salon and spa manager?