FAQs for Employers interested in participating in ‘Beauty Links’

How does it work?

Beauty Links is an integrated program that combines Career Development, Technical Training, and Work Experience. Participants complete the program in sixteen (16) weeks.

This program connects salons, spas, and beauty clinics with individuals who are eager to learn and grow. Participants begin with volunteer experience and transition into a 10-week paid work placement, where they receive mentorship, hands-on training, and real-world experience.

Participants are expected to complete 144 hours of work experience in total.

Do I get to keep my participant after the Work Experience is over?

Yes, the goal is long-term employment for the participant.

How can my participant help me around my facility?

Well, besides industry certification in the technical areas, your participant will also be trained in Canadian Industry Spa Standards, Customer Service, Self-Marketing, Conflict Management, and Spa Tech duties.

What if my participant misses hours of work?

Like all other employees, missed shifts/hours are not paid to the participant. Though this is not expected, should this happen ESG can only help resolve issues if we are made aware of issues in a timely manner.

How does the Wage Subsidy work?

The wage subsidy is an incentive for employers to participate in the program. The new employee’s wages are subsidized by the program for a 10 week period. If eligible, the wage subsidy available is $15 per hour.

Are all employers eligible for the Wage Subsidy?

To be eligible for the wage subsidy, you must:

• Be a registered business with a legal business name and business number
• Be a legal entity either incorporated or registered within a province or territory in Canada and is providing services to Albertans.
• Have been in business for at least six months or can demonstrate financial stability
• Offer the likelihood of long-term employment
• Pay reasonable, competitive wages

You are not eligible for a wage subsidy IF participants fill a position that:

• Was left vacant due to an industrial dispute in your workplace
• Was left vacant due to a lay-off waiting to be recalled
• Was terminated to instead employ a participant

Who pays the participant?

• You will issue regular paycheques on paydays; ESG will reimburse the negotiated amount on a monthly basis
• You will be required to submit monthly reports to ESG regarding the employee’s hours and wages.
• Once a participant starts their work experience with you, they officially become your employee. Therefore, please ensure that your business insurance covers all employee-related liability.
• You are responsible to deduct Canada Pension Plan, Employment Insurance and Income Tax will from participant wages and remit to the Canada Revenue Agency, just like your other employees.

Interested in participating as an employer?

Complete online questionnaire to participate in this program.