Ask Felicia: Adding Services

Q: I'm considering adding some new services to the menu of my mini-spa. I've seen a few technique classes that look interesting, but I am leaning toward purchasing an infrared sauna or mat to make money without taxing my hands. Any suggestions?

A: Adding new services is an exciting opportunity to appeal to more clients and enhance what you already do. That said, you may want to do some market research before you invest in education or equipment:

1. Do a survey of your existing clients, asking which of the items you are considering they would most likely try or use. This is also a good way to get a little early buzz about new things coming and line up some "testers" as you incorporate the new service.

   
   

2. Evaluate the options based on your desire to do them and not just market appeal. Think about what you would most enjoy doing, what fits with your company culture, environment, and clientele. It's no fun to add a popular service that you hate doing!

   
   

3. Consider where the new services will be done and any potential impact of a new item in that location. For example, if you have a single treatment room and want to add a sauna to it, this could displace some of your current clients and result in you needing to allocate more time to your schedule.

A word to the wise, product and equipment manufacturers will entice you with "best case scenario" revenue numbers, which may not line up with actual results. No matter what new services you add, it will most likely take time for them to be noticed. Be patient and consistent in your marketing efforts.