Pulse November / December 2022 | Page 66

“ A rising tide raises all ships — and we need more ships ”

HAS THE STAFFING SHUFFLE STARTED TO FEEL like a game of Pick-up sticks ? The ISPA database reminds me of a New York Times Wordle these days — a constant brain challenge to get it right . The spa industry is not alone in this era of rapid change that has now spread to most industries around the globe , but that doesn ’ t make it any easier as we all do our best to be an employer of choice .
The ISPA Team continues to work creatively to close the gap on talent challenges the spa industry has been facing since long before the pandemic . Two of our recent ISPA Town Hall sessions focused on “ The Great Attraction ” and provided great takeaways for members shared by their colleagues .
ISPA is raising awareness of opportunities within the hospitality / spa industry to prospective talent pools at both the high school and collegiate level . We have participated in dozens of job fairs in partnership with Beauty Cast Network to connect with thousands of high school students across the country . In addition , ISPA has
created the Collaborative on Higher Education via a partnership with the CORE Unlimited team .
The Collaborative will help to raise awareness and assist hundreds of colleges and universities that are adding self-care centers on campus with little or no knowledge on how to manage them or what products to entertain .
A shortage of licensed professionals continues to be a challenge . The Interstate Compact we ’ ve discussed at length will be a game changer as it removes barriers to entry and increases mobility . Helping schools increase enrollment and career pathing is critical . Recently a network of industry leaders formed the Unite as One campaign to embark on a media blitz to raise awareness around spa , hospitality and beauty .
In order to meet increased demand and serve the ever-changing spa-goer , we must continue to share the tremendous opportunities within our beloved industries and collaborate on creative ideas . Dare we say , a rising tide raises all ships — and we need more ships ! n
— LYNNE MCNEES , ISPA PRESIDENT
CONNECT WITH ME ON FACEBOOK OR LINKEDIN : LYNNE WALKER MCNEES
64 PULSE n NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2022