Are your employees invested in your spa or massage business? Investing means more than showing up on time and doing a competent job. Investing means going the distance – taking on more responsibilities, learning new skills, bringing in new clients, and recommending cost-cutting measures. That kind of dedication generally is inspired from the top. To that end, how you communicate goes a long way in making your team feel they can make a difference in your business and want to.
Consider the following qualities that make an effective communicator.
Make it two-way
The goal of communication is to learn from each other’s point of view. That’s why effective communication starts with listening. Giving someone lots of information and sharing your insights is not communicating unless you take time for questions and feedback. If you find yourself talking to someone, stop and start listening.
Ask questions
If a question can be answered with a yes or no, you aren’t having a conversation. Ask your team open-ended questions if you truly are looking to have a give-and-take conversation. What do you think about this new massage lubricant? What are clients saying about our new facial massage? Do you think our retail offerings are broad enough? What can we do to get more male clients? When you ask questions like this, you are saying, “I value your professional opinion in making the right decisions for the business.”
Let everyone be heard.
Give everyone a chance to express their opinion, especially if you want your team to contribute to moving your spa or massage business ahead. It doesn’t matter how many people work for you. Each has something to offer; let them share it. Whether the situation is an impromptu conversation or a team meeting, give everyone a chance to talk and be open about what they say.
Wait before asking questions
Some people get so enthusiastic about a conversation; they can’t wait to start asking questions. Remember, effective listening is two way. Hold your questions until the other person has finished talking. You may find they answer your question anyway.
Don’t make it a contest
Don’t start shaping your answer while the other person is still talking; it will divert your attention from listening. The conversation shouldn’t be a contest. If you haven’t learned something or better understand the other person, no one comes out ahead.
Communicating is the cornerstone of every successful business. Everyone can become a better communicator. As the head of your spa or massage business, you can set an example for everyone to follow.