About 70% of our students have long term goals of self-employment.  We offer the following advice to our students: Choose your start-up location in a neighbourhood where you see yourself in the long run.  Clients will follow if you move nearby 😉

In this article, we review different rental options for budding beauty industry entrepreneurs.

RENTING SPACE IN A SPA or SALON

Renting a room (or chair) in a spa or salon is a good way to get your toes wet in the world of commerce. This option allows a certain amount of independence, it’s like renting a room  in a house where a family lives. For example, you may be able to set your own hours, but will be limited to their hours of operation.

A benefit of this arrangement is cross-promotion.  Renting space from an existing beauty business could give you access to a pool of existing clients. People who rent space in a spa/salon usually do so with the hopes that their business will also be visited by that spa/salon’s regular clients.  Cross promotion is mutually convenient ONLY when you rent from an establishment that offers different services than you.

Be prepared for conflict if you offer the same services as your landlord!

What can I expect my rental fee to be?

Your rental fee will depend on multiple factors.  The location of the establishment and the size of the room you will be renting are primary factors. The best way to conduct your research is to inquire about other places renting nearby (even if you are not interested in those locations).  

Also ask what is included in the fee. Things to consider are:

• How will your clients pay? Will you be getting your own pos or will you be using theirs? 

• Will their receptionist be greeting your clients? 

• Will you be using their washer/dryer?

• Who will clean the common areas?

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RENTING SPACE IN A COMMUNITY

Renting space in a community such as My Lofts or Citizen Salon Studios is a new concept worth exploring! This option is good for service providers with a small-medium client base. It allows for more independence and is an excellent choice for service providers whose goal is to earn a comfortable income.

Renting space in a community is like living in a furnished condo with utilities and amenities included. Rent is understandably higher as it can include equipment, furniture, and services such as online booking and marketing. It also includes maintenance of common areas.

Another pro of renting space in a community is the love and support from your neighbours. You all have something in common- an entrepreneurial spirit and your love for the beauty industry!

On the other side of that coin, your neighbours are also your competitors. There’s nothing wrong with a little competition! We advise our students to see competition in a positive light- it keeps us on our toes and reminds us daily to treat our clients like important guests J

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RENTING SPACE ALONE

Renting a store front space is a goal for service providers who want to run an entire operation. This option requires a larger financial investment and an existing client base.

This option is like renting an entire house for yourself and your family (staff). It is maximum commitment for maximum independence. You are responsible for every aspect of your business.

We do not recommend renting an entire spa/salon in hopes to rent out rooms/chairs while you build your clientele.  Do not overextend yourself! What if you aren’t able to rent ‘that chair’ or ‘that room’ in time?

Making sound financial decisions during the start-up phase is what will take your business into year 2. Try not to rely on credit and keep your overhead as low as possible for as long as possible.

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Are you interested in self employment? ESG offers short training courses to help you reach your goals one step at a time.

With ESG, you can custom-design your beauty career by taking the courses you are interested in. If you are joining the beauty industry, we recommend starting off with esthetics basics like Manicures and Pedicures or Waxing and Tinting.

EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP

Beauty Industry Resource Centre

Indispensable Behaviours of an Ace Employee

A guide to job security and being the employee they can’t live without.

As we send yet another class off to do their work experience, we hope they recall all the lessons learned in class, in particular, how to be an “ace” employer.

What is it that makes an “ace” employee – and how can you be one?

An “ace” employee is an outstanding, superstar, and most importantly, indispensable employee. If you’re a job hopper, have seen more termination notices than pay checks, or simply can’t seem to get the promotion you want, this article may be worth the read.

What do employers look for in an “ace” employee?

1. Time Management

A massive struggle with most “problem employees” is their time management. Being late every day- even if only 5 minutes, calling in sick constantly, or lack of reliable childcare are huge factors in your employer forming their opinion about you. The mismanagement of your own time has negative consequences for your pay check and your team. Team resentment about your unreliability could create a hostile work environment over your workmate’s resentment.

When you are being conscious of your time and priorities, your employer will notice your reliability and trustworthiness. Key holder responsibilities are given to those who earn trust. These responsibilities sometimes come with a pay increase, but are always a step in the right direction to growing your career. Having control of your time management is a MUST, especially in the workplace.

So how can you improve your time management skills? Here are some tips from an “ace” employee:
Analyze why you’re always running late. Is it due to lack of planning?

• Organizing yourself the night before will better prepare you for the next day.
• Getting enough rest and taking care of your body will generally help you wake up without six alarms in the morning.
• Plan for the road conditions – if you see it’s about to snow in the weather forecast, think about leaving earlier the next morning.
• Tell yourself that your shift starts a half hour earlier than it does. Wouldn’t you rather have time to prepare for your day at work instead of rushing in and feeling overwhelmed? Vince Lombardi famously said, “If you are five minutes early, you are already ten minutes late”

2. Initiative

When you see something that needs to be done at work, do you automatically do it?

If not, you may not be taking enough initiative in the workplace. Managers love employees that do necessary tasks without being asked.

“It’s not in my job description” should absolutely be eliminated from your vocabulary, unless it puts your personal health or safety at risk. Superstar employees go above and beyond when they think no one is watching. However, a good employer is always watching and taking notice of their value. Unlike employees who only go above and beyond when they think they may benefit from the situation, these superstars have higher job security during slow times.

3. Intuition

Anticipating needs is an incredible form of intuition that makes the whole day more productive. An ace employee will foresee a future event and prepare for it. This could be setting out tools that you know you’ll use, or having the coffee ready when you know there’s an early meeting. Your preparation and your willingness to see your team’s needs before they do is going to make the day run smooth and make you stand out from the crowd.

So how can you improve your intuition? Here are some tips from an “ace” employee:

Challenge yourself when you start getting bored.

People quit their jobs because they get tired of the same routine. An easy way to create a fun and dynamic workplace is to create a job for yourself when you feel things are stagnant.

• See a void in the system? Think up a way you can increase efficiency
• Ask someone if you can help with their project
• Always get clearance from your manager before starting any additional projects, and make sure you can handle your regular obligations as well as your new responsibility

Knowledge is power!

A challenge most managers face is not having enough dynamic employees to be able to delegate tasks to. An employee that has experience in different areas is extremely valuable. A superstar staff is made of different people with different strengths – and there are ways to diversify your skillset.

• Check to see if there is a product knowledge course you can take to better familiarize yourself with the stock at your workplace. If not, a quick Google search could reveal lots of information you didn’t know- just make sure the source is credible
• Additional courses in your spare time can increase your skillset. Talk to your manager about furthering your education – you’d be surprised at the support some employers offer to employees that take the initiative to learn more about their industry. With that being said, take every course offered to you for free by the company (especially if it’s optional!). Some courses can seem boring or not related to your day-to-day, but you never know when that additional information can become useful
• Ask a colleague if they can show you how they perform a task. There is more than one way to do things. Although your way may work for you, you may learn something new.

Work ethic doesn’t come automatically. It has to be learned and developed through self-discipline. Following these tips will demonstrate to employer your strong work ethic and make your work day more enjoyable. Most importantly, it will show your employer how indispensable you are!

Executive Spa Group
(780) 604 2772
info@executivespagroup.com

Cosmetology Choices: Understanding Options For Your Hairstyling License

Looking for the perfect career? If you:

• Are fueled by creativity
• Love the idea of socializing at work
• Want to help people feel better about themselves
• Like the idea of flexible hours and fun working environments

the Hairstylist occupation could be the right path for you! The Alberta Learning Information System has a great breakdown of this exciting career. Before you jump right in, you have two primary options to consider. In Alberta, Hairdressing is considered a Red Seal Journeyman Trade. This means higher standards in Alberta for Hairstylists. Certification is based on education and hours worked in the salon.

Option One: The Apprenticeship Program

The Apprenticeship path will take you two years to complete. This includes a minimum of 1400 hours of on-the-job training and 10 weeks of technical training each year (20 weeks total). The benefit of this route is the cost effectiveness and the real life, hands on training.

Steps to obtaining your apprenticeship

1. Secure a job in a salon. This could be getting hired as a salon technician, receptionist, or retail specialist. Your supervisor should be a Journeyman Hairstylist to train you and confirm your hours worked. 2. After securing employment, you may apply to be a Registered Apprentice in Alberta. Once you have completed your application and pay the $35 registration fee, you may be issued an Apprenticeship Card and Blue Book (this is the record log in which your worked hours are tracked). As an Apprentice Hairstylist, you are able to buy product (no chemicals!) from salon distribution centers, and you are legally able to handle the tools of the trade. 3. Your on-the-job hours are divided into two twelve-month periods. During each period, you are expected to complete 1450 hours (this is 40 weeks based on 35 hours a week). 4. Technical training is arranged by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training and is currently offered at DelMar College in Calgary and MC College in Edmonton.

• Your technical training is divided into Period One and Period Two. Both are 10 weeks in length (700 hours total). You may be eligible for financial benefits while in technical training. The average cost of tuition for both periods generally doesn’t exceed $2500. Tool kits would be available for learning purposes only, and it would be your responsibility to invest in your kit for your work experience.

5. Once your on-the-job training, technical training, and corresponding examinations (theory and technical exams for Period One and Two) are successfully completed, you are eligible to take the theory and technical exam for your Interprovincial Red Seal.

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Don’t forget about grants and loans available!

• Alberta Student Aid provides loans and grants to apprentices registered in the Alberta apprenticeship program with Apprenticeship and Industry Training who are attending an approved technical training program as a full-time student.
• The Canada Apprentice Loan is an initiative of the Government of Canada to help complete your apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade. You can apply for up to $4,000 in interest-free loans per period of technical training. The money would be available to help with tuition, tools, equipment and living expenses, to cover forgone wages and to help support your family.
• The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant (AIG) is a taxable cash grant of $1,000 per year, to a maximum of $2,000. This Grant helps registered apprentices get started in the designated Red Seal trades.
• The Apprenticeship Completion Grant (ACG) is a taxable cash grant of $2,000. This Grant helps registered apprentices who have completed their training to become certified journeypersons in the designated Red Seal trades.
• Canada Revenue offers a tax benefit for Tradespersons’ Tools Deduction . Apprentices may be able to deduct the cost of eligible tools bought to earn employment income as a skilled tradesperson.

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Option Two: Full Time Cosmetology Program

Although it is not necessary to attend a full-time program to enter the beauty industry, many cosmetology programs are available for you to enroll in in Alberta before you get a job in a salon. The advantage of this is that you have a wide selection of schools to choose from to ensure you receive the education you require. Full time programs are beneficial to those who feel they need to be trained before they enter the industry. Career training facilities, like full-time cosmetology schools, are independent, private institutions that are regulated by the Private Vocational Training Act. The cost of a full-time cosmetology program in Alberta ranges from $11,000 to $20,000, and generally includes a starter toolkit. These programs can take anywhere from 9 months to 1 year to complete, depending on the facility’s required hours – this is, on average, 1400 hours. The Alberta Apprenticeship Board, however, only requires 1,050 hours from an approved institution. An advantage of some cosmetology programs is the length of time spent in a learning environment as opposed to a working environment. Some participants find this beneficial as they feel they may need more time learning to feel comfortable before they start taking clients. The facility may also teach advanced techniques, outside of what the Apprenticeship Program deems necessary for licensing. Alberta Advanced Education has a great page on what to know before enrolling in a Private Vocational Training School.

Barbering is not a separate license in Alberta.

It is very important to know that Barbering is not a separate license in Alberta. Although there are training facilities specifically for barbering, you should be aware that a full Hairstylist Apprenticeship (including technical training) needs to be completed for licensing. There has been an important change to note regarding technical trade schools. Previously, on-the-job training hours were credited for completing a full-time hairstyling program at an approved school. As of September 1st 2018, on-the-job work experience credit will only be given on a case-by-case basis. This means that you are no longer granted 1400 hours from your training provider that can be used to lessen your time as an apprentice. Once technical schooling has completed, you still must register as an apprentice and complete 2800 on-the-job hours. Knowing your options will help you make an informed decision regarding your education. For more information on Hairstyling careers contact (780) 604 2772 #103. EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP Career and Employment Centre Alberta Beauty Industry

Welcome to the beauty industry!

It’s an amazing thing when a career and passion come together! Here, we provide a brief description of different occupations in the beauty industry

Remember, beauty professionals almost always work weekends! That is one thing in this industry that stays the same. All occupations should also expect to put in some evening shifts as these are usually the most popular appointment times.

Visit Work and Pay of Beauty Careers for information on wages and compensation.

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COSMETIC SALES

This occupation is not based on personal care and therefore is not regulated. Specific education not necessary, however, in-depth knowledge about products an asset and necessary. Ability to communicate information and merchandising knowledge are assets. Must be willing to meet targets/goals.

EDUCATOR

Beauty Educators (instructors) can teach in a school or for a product line. Experience in the industry is key. Licensing may be necessary. Ability to publicly speak and communicate knowledge to small or large groups is essential.

ESTHETICIAN

In Alberta, this is an unregulated occupation.Full time school is useful for learning all aspects of the industry, however, it is up to the employer to determine their hiring standard.

Specialized courses are available as a alternate way to join the industry and take training specific to your career goals. Entry level estheticians usually start with Waxing and Manicures and Pedicures- 2 staple services in spas.

HAIRSTYLIST

This occupation is regulated by Alberta’s Apprenticeship and Industry Training Act Hairstylist Trade Regulation.

Two ways of becoming a Hairstylist: Full time school or Apprenticeship. Barbering is not a separate trade and requires the same amount of education in order to receive a license.

LASH TECHNICIAN

Lash Techs are not regulated in Alberta. Spas dedicated to Lash extensions is common industry-practice. These spas offer all types of Lash Extension services. Courses range from weekend (2-3 days) to several weeks. Certification enables you to buy product from specific distributors.

MAKEUP ARTIST

This occupation is not regulated in Alberta. Freelance Makeup Artists are common in the Beauty industry. Classes range from a few days to several weeks. Online certification is available.

MASSAGE THERAPIST

Unlike other provinces, Massage Therapy is a self-regulated industry in Alberta, meaning that Alberta has not regulated Massage Therapy and therefore schools are not required by law to include standard practices in their curriculums.

It is professional associations that dictate the future of massage therapy in Alberta for now, and currently, they are stating 2200 hours is the requirement for insurance billing. Courses range from 6 months to 20 months.

MEDICAL ESTHETICIAN

Medical Esthetics is an extension of esthetics. A medical esthetician should know all the basics of esthetics, especially skincare.

Because this is an unregulated occupation in Alberta, IPL and Laser equipment manufacturers offer short training courses when you purchase equipment, however, best practice is to have an esthetics background in order to understand the complexities of both, the equipment and the human body, and how these will intertwine when you administer a treatment.

NAIL TECHNICIAN

In Alberta, this is an unregulated occupation. Spas dedicated to Nail services is common industry-practice. These spas offer manicures and pedicures and potentially a range in specialties (gel, acrylic, specialty nail art). Courses range from weekend (2-3 days) to several weeks. Certification is required to purchase product from suppliers.

SALON/ SPA TECHNICIAN

Responsible for the day-to-day functions in the salon/spa. Ability to anticipate needs is an asset. Cleanliness and organization are crucial to this position.

Salon assistants can bridge into a Hairstyling Apprenticeship program.

SALON/SPA MANAGER

No certification is required, although having a occupational skill is an asset. Good leadership, organizational, and communication skills are required.

Managers may be responsible for payroll. Responsible for dealing with dissatisfied clients.

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EXECUTIVE SPA GROUP

Beauty Industry Resource Centre
(780) 604 2772
info@executivespagroup.com

Esthetics Schools in Edmonton

Your career route is flexible, there are Esthetics schools in Edmonton that offer full time programs or module courses. Choosing a Full time Esthetics program will help you be well rounded Service Provider. Completing module courses can help you achieve your career goals as time and funds permit. Here are a few examples of what you can do with your beauty career:

Where Can Your Esthetics Career Take You?

Esthetician, Medical Esthetician, Make-Up Artist, Skin Care Specialist, Lash Technician, Nail Technician…these are just a few of examples of where a beauty career can take you.

In today’s fast paced world with ever changing trends and constant growth of the beauty industry, this is a career that will always be in demand. An Esthetics career offers versatility as a person and as an artist, and gives you the choice to pick your area of expertise.

Start Your Beauty Career Today!

What’s not to love about having a beauty career with so many avenues of growth?! The ability to customize and focus on the services that interest you and build on your strengths is empowering, the opportunity for advanced growth and education is endless. The beauty industry is one that will always be growing, always in style, and will always provide you with the opportunity to make a living loving what you do.

Talk to Executive Spa Group about esthetics schools in Edmonton, other training options, paying for your education, plus more!

Check out some of our online resources

Find beauty jobs in our job bank. In addition, find beauty educators in our TRAINING 411 Beauty Educator directory!

Executive Spa Group
Beauty Industry Career and Employment Centre
(780) 604 2772
executivespagroup.com