Massage Therapy Business Start-Up
Tips For New Bodyworkers to Get a Good Start
A new massage therapist faces many challenges as they begin their business: gaining new clients, generating massage income, and learning to market themselves.
Here are some general tips for massage therapists just starting out their new massage therapy business. These guidelines apply whether doing bodywork in a medical setting, large day-spa or independently.
Don't apologize for being new.
Everyone started out new at one point in their career, and there is no need to apologize for being a massage therapist who “just graduated” or “doesn't know much yet”. Clients want to feel their massage therapist is confident in their ability, which will set them at ease. Completing a massage therapy education, certification or licensing program, more than qualifies someone to give a good, basic massage, which is what most clients want. As they continue their education with specialty classes, massage therapists can increase their menu of bodywork offerings.
Speak to everyone!
Some of the best clients have come from grocery store lines and church potlucks. Strike up conversations with people, be friendly and presentable, and interest is sure to be generated, creating new massage therapy clients. Have business cards ready to give out at all times that discuss massage therapy and give accurate contact information. This simple little tool of speaking up and being friendly is sometimes called "network marketing".
Have professional looking business cards.
Having said that, be sure that all business cards look professional. Massage therapists need to present themselves well to the general public because our clients trust us with their care. Professional massage business cards do not have to be expensive; however; companies like Vista have promotional offers that make cards very affordable.
Work with other businesses in your area.
Create some nice fliers or brochures with information about massage therapy and what you are offering to place at some local businesses in your area. Gyms, fitness centers, health food stores, chiropractors, hair salons and other health, wellness and beauty businesses are great places to place massage brochures.
Check the laws in your area!
Some cities or counties have laws separate from the state laws, so be sure you check what massage therapists need to do in your area. One local city in Oklahoma does not allow massages to be given from a private residence; other areas require therapists to file a special permit. Be sure to include insurance requirements in the search as well, since many massage therapists must carry their own professional insurance policies. Massage therapists need to be sure they are legal to protect their reputations.
Join a professional massage association.
Several professional massage and bodywork associations exist that can provide many benefits to a fledgling massage therapist. Some of these organizations include:
- ABMP – Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals
- AMTA – American Massage Therapy Association
- IMA – International Massage Association
- NAMASTA – North American Studio Alliance (Geared not only towards massage and bodywork professionals, but also yoga, pilates and other mind/body activities)
