Pulse May 2017 | Page 65

caption “The energy of a fresh approach helped us elevate our service.” — Chris Bird Director of Operations, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort & Spa Farmington, Pennsylvania Developing New Leaders Not only did the partnership between Kolb and Nemacolin Woodlands Resort & Spa improve spa processes and practices, it also promoted leadership growth and sustainability for the spa industry by taking a new leader and providing her the tools she needed to be successful. “I am so thankful to Chris Bird, Managing Director Monte Hansen and owner Maggie Hardy Magerko as they chose to invest in me rather than searching for a more experienced outsider to bring in. They saw potential in me and chose to invest in that by bringing Jean in. Jean has also inspired me to become more involved with ISPA and the industry overall, which I see is extremely beneficial for career growth and education.” Kolb agrees with Hatcher’s sentiments, saying: “I cannot think of a greater need in the spa industry for the long-term sustainability of our businesses. If we do not have strong leaders with a high business and leadership acumen, we will not have profitable businesses. The spa industry does not have an excess of seasoned leaders. We must grow them organically by identifying leaders within other areas of hospitality or within the spa therapist teams.” Kolb continues: “At this point in my career, I feel an obligation to give back to an industry that has been so good to me. I am sure there are others who want to share their knowledge as well. It is rewarding to work with someone and watch them blossom into an incredibly strong and successful leader. They are our future. We owe it to them to invest wisely. Our leaders of today and tomorrow are our most valuable asset. It gives me goosebumps thinking about all the potential we have…together!” n Should You Hire a Coach? It doesn’t matter the size of the spa or the amount of resources, there are always opportunities to improve and ways to achieve the goals within a specific budget. “Coaching opportunities are customized for the needs of the business. This includes taking into consideration what one can spend for an outside professional service,” Kolb says. “When one considers what the cost of recruiting and training a new executive is versus the investment of a coach to ensure an employee’s success, the long-term return on the investment of our most valuable resource, our people, is high. Just like any other service, you must get your money’s worth. Do your homework when hiring a leadership coach to ensure their message of leadership is consistent with your organization.” May 2017 ■ PULSE 63