Dear Readers,
By the time you read this letter, we’ll be getting ready to put away our summer toys and the University of Michigan will have played their first football game – the summer really flew by! We were all so busy trying to escape the heat… hope your “back to school” season is starting to heat up, as well.
As you prepare for busy season, now is a great time to get your team ready to be their very best. Training is more important than ever, as our industry continues to be scrutinized from many angles. Our online Sun is Life® Training & Certification program can be accessed anytime, and offers you a customized learning plan that will enhance the skills and professionalism of any member of your staff. And, it’s so affordable – it was created to offer every salon owner a way to take their business to the next level with top-notch training in operations, sales, management and much more. Take a minute to check out a free preview at sunislifetraining.com.
There are abundant product training opportunities available – be sure to read our Cover Story, “Meet the Trainers!” I’m sure many of you have attended a symposium and met one or more of the people in this group. So many have been in the industry for a long time and they have amazing knowledge to share. You can’t underestimate the importance of skilled salespeople behind your counter! Many product manufacturers invest significant resources into helping salon owners like you be better at what you do. Most well-trained salons have a minimum goal of 25% + in product sales… are you doing as well or better than your competitors?
Speaking of products and manufacturers, I can’t believe it’s been nine years since our inaugural Industry Choice Awards – the ONLY recognition of excellence in the tanning business. The recipients are determined by you, the salon operators, so be sure to vote in the 9th Annual Industry Choice Awards. It’s a very easy, online ballot; you can find a link at istmagazine.com. Vote for your favorite product manufacturers and dedicated industry members! These companies spend millions of dollars every year developing new UV, sunless, lamp and lotion technologies, as well as other products and services that play important roles in your success. Show them your appreciation – your votes count!
One such dedicated industry provider is Insurtec, Inc., the subject of our Company Profile. The family business has been a supporter of the ITA since 2000, and a supporter of ist Magazine since our humble beginnings! In the Industry Close-up spot is Wolff Systems’ Cheri Mullenix, whom I’ve known for many years and whose sunlamp expertise is truly impressive. Her story is very interesting – be sure to check it out.
On a final note, some of you may know that our longtime head writer, John P. Ribner, has become a novelist! I’m very proud of John and his dedication to pursuing a dream… well done, Ribby.
Thanks for reading!
