Since I have been working as a consultant, I have gotten a number of calls and emails from a number of spa owners and professionals wanting advice on how to do what I do.  Below is a letter I just received about this very issue and my response to the author. I hope both will be of help to other aspiring consultants out there!

Dear Felicia -

I have just been presented with a consulting opportunity for a 5 star resort. I've been an esthetician for 10 years, licensed through the cosmetology association of British Columbia. I run my own company and have now done various contract positions. What is the best way for me to create a consulting fee? How do I know how much to charge?

Thank you

Michelle
Soulful Indulgence - a mobile spa\wellness company  (and potential spa development consulting firm)
thestudio@shaw.ca
 

Hi Michelle -

 

Thanks for your email and question. Congratulations on your potential consulting assignment.

 

It is hard for me to suggest a fee for you to charge as I am not sure what you will be doing and what your experience level is outside of esthetics. Fees and packages for spa consultants vary greatly from one firm to another and can range from $100 to $500 an hour (on average) depending on the type of work and industry. My guess is the firm you are talking with has a budget greater than some smaller spas out there but may still have a cap on what they plan to pay. In this economy, many consultants have reduced their prices or created value-added packages just like we often advise our clients to do.

 

What I would suggest is to be flexible on your fee since this is your first consulting assignment and will no doubt learn a tremendous amount as you work with this company and/or put together a proposal for them. I would also recommend that you consider some assistance from others in the field (as sub-contractors) to help increase your knowledge base,  scope of work and value to the client. This keeps you from trying to be a jack-of-all-trades and trying to do it all yourself. Payment for these fees will need to be figured into any bid or agreement you enter into so it is worthwhile to do some research on this in advance. If I can be of any help or offer referrals in any particular area (design, management, finance, marketing, training, etc.) please let me know.

 

Thanks!

 

Felicia Brown, LMBT

Owner & Spa Consultant ~ Spalutions!

Certified Guerrilla Marketing Coach

336.508.0790 ~ Direct

www.Spalutions.com

http://blog.spalutions.com

 

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