As we all know, September and October are very important months for those of us in the tan biz. It’s a time when salon operators should be busy preparing budgets, training staff, finalizing decisions on upgrading equipment and if they’ve chosen to open new facilities, should be in the final phases of getting them ready to open. Lotion makers are introducing their new product lineups, and holding distributor and salon council meetings to provide their customers with knowledge about the products for the upcoming season. Then, the manufacturers and distributors send out their product trainers, host regional symposiums and expos, all to educate salon operators on how to be product experts. Each year, both manufacturers and distributors spend enormous amounts of money educating salon pros about the features and benefits of the products they sell, which is an important element in professionalizing our business; but now more than ever, salons must go beyond product training and do more.
It’s time for us to change our view of our industry, and education is the key. We must view the business of providing tans as a trade and communicate a new level of professionalism in the marketplace. This can be achieved by committing to complete the Sun is Life® program (see pg. 24). Sun is Life Trade School is the industry’s only licensed trade school, offer- ing both salon operator certification and a 25-module online program that’s available 24/7. Look for opportunities to receive SIL Training and Certification this fall and throughout 2014 at many distributor events across the country.
Not to diminish the importance of product training… in our “Industry Close-up” spot is New Sunshine’s Senior Sales Trainer, Susan Carlton, a super lady known and loved by many salon professionals. What a great story! These features continue to be such a reader favorite, and Ribby writes them so well. Our “Cover Story” offers the expertise of a group of industry veterans, as we provide ideas for holiday promotions – don’t blink, it will be here before we know it and now is the time for planning to make the most of the season. As always, we’ve got your back, helping you prepare for success in 2014.
Salon operators who want to succeed must attend the highest quality trade events offered by our industry – one of these, and the first for this season, is the FS Expo in St. Louis, MO (see back cover). Remember, this will be THE SHOW where product makers will introduce their new line-ups for the season. And, it’s a perfect time for you to get your team educated and ready to take your business to the next level with Sun is Life Training and Certification. See you there! And if you should miss it, look for exclusive coverage in our November issue.
