Cape Town Tourism talks 2010 Staff Writer
What exactly does it take to prepare a city for the biggest and most high profile international sporting event? A few weeks ago Sky Grove, PR and Communication Manager for Cape Town Tourism chatted to us about getting the Mother City geared up for the WC.
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Education is key to technology’s success in the health & spa industry
Lydia Sarfati November 27 2006
First, I would like to say that change is a good thing. Our industry has come far and we have learned much in these recent years. I would also like to say that when it comes to new technology, that it is our responsibility as aestheticians to educate ourselves and our clients. Certainly, new technology can and does enhance the services we provide, but we cannot as an industry rely on technology to replace a solid foundation in aesthetics education.
The newest piece of equipment may be the latest and greatest thing to hit the market, but we will fail as an industry if we don’t heed the building blocks of aesthetics-anatomy, chemistry, biology, and even psychology. An equipment manufacturer may teach you how to use a new machine, but as an aesthetician, it is critical to your professional integrity that you understand why and how a machine works with the body. Do not learn just how to use a machine to exfoliate, apply this instruction to your knowledge of skincare to understand how and why it exfoliates.
Equipment and product manufacturers alike offer all kinds of training opportunities from conferences to travelling seminars. They may provide in-salon training or they might have their own training academy. I urge you to seek out as much training and licensing available that apply for every and all products and equipment that you bring into your salon. Likewise, insist that every member of the staff be given the opportunity to receive the same education. Education is the key to maintaining your professional integrity.
However, realise that a product knowledge class, no matter how in depth, can never replace aesthetics education. Therefore, insist that the kinds of continuing education that you and your staff seek include good-old fashioned aesthetics. Perhaps, take an anatomy or nutrition class at the local community college or seek out aesthetics classes specialising in specific skin types or conditions. Our profession touches so many aspects of our client’s wellness that the educational opportunities out there that will enhance our careers are endless.
Fortunately, educating yourself and your team does not need to be expensive. This year, as you create your budget, I encourage you to allocate funds for education. If you know that you will be bringing in new equipment or a new product line, set aside the resources to properly educate your team.
A subscription to industry trade journals, such as Les Nouvelles Esthetiques, will allow your team to share a wealth of knowledge without breaking the bank. If you earn education from a distributor or manufacturer, make sure that you cash in. Some offer free or reduced price trainings when you bring in a new line. Be sure to research all educational opportunities that are out there.
Plan educational "road trips" to conferences and other destination training seminars. Make education fun. For example, attend a conference, such as the Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Conference, on the 24 & 25 June 2007, in Johannesburg and while enjoying the conference, also take in a day at a popular spa so that you can see what our other colleagues are doing right (or wrong) in other parts of the country.
At the end of the day, our industry is changing very quickly. It is our responsibility to be inquisitive and explore what technology offers us. However, it also our professional responsibility to the clients that we treat that we make a point to receive the best education available.
It is easy to get caught up in fads and gimmicks. Some will stay and make lasting impressions in our industry while others will be a flash in the pan. Remember, technology, in what ever form it may take, cannot supplement a strong foundation in aesthetics. Encourage aesthetics and beauty schools to improve the quantity and quality of education we give our new aestheticians. And as a seasoned aesthetician, set an example by making continuing education a cornerstone of your career, most importantly learn everyday, knowledge is a true power.
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