You love your work, but relationships among team members at your spa or massage practice have a real strain on you and the business. Unfortunately, that’s not an uncommon scenario. According to Van Moody, author of The People Factor (Thomas Nelson: January 2014), research indicates that as much as 60 to 80 percent of the difficulties at work have to do with strained relationships between employees and not from an employee’s lack of skills or motivation. Strained workplace relationships can have a serious impact on those involved, resulting in anxiety, burnout, clinical depression, and even illness, Van Moody says.
Maintain Boundaries
Considering all the time you spend at work, it’s not uncommon that work associates become close, sometimes like family. That’s why it’s essential that, as the owner or manager of your spa or massage practice, you set healthy boundaries in the relationships you establish with your team. In doing so, you set an example for others. Here are some suggested ways to set workplace boundaries in “7 Tips for Setting Boundaries at Work” on the PsychCentral blog.
Bring Up a Boundary or Violation Right Away
Make it clear verbally what you will and will not engage in, such as gossip about one team or complaining about clients. Should a situation arise that involves either one, be direct but polite in stating that you aren’t comfortable with the conversation, you don’t plan to participate. You also prefer that team members don’t either. Over time, your team will understand what you consider acceptable conduct.
Create Structure
The more structure, the less opportunity for misunderstandings that can lead to conflicts among your team. When you have a meeting, have an agenda and make sure to cover key topics. If there is a problem among team members, bring those involved together and provide an open forum for discussion and resolution.
Focus on Concrete Explanations
Try not to personalize situations. Talk about a conflict in your spa or massage practice regarding its effect on the business or providing clients with the best service. For example, point out that it’s hard to give your full attention to a client’s need for a stress-reducing massage when you are preoccupied about a dispute with someone else. Acknowledge the issue and talk about solutions; don’t dwell on the problem.
Above all, make sure that you are consistent in your dealings with your team. They need to know what you stand for, what they can expect from you. Let your actions speak volumes.