Question: Inappropriate Clients

I am new to the massage world, graduating last year and am practicing in my own shop in a small town.  Before opening my shop, a handful of local "massage parlors" were shut down on the grounds of prositution. 

 

Im my information I make it clear I do professional massages, I am a certified practioner, am in professional memberships, etc.  Unfortunately I am still attracting some negative behavior from some of my male clients (whom are never repeats).  I'm just looking for some tips to be more pro-active about this.  Thanks!

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  • up

    Lucianna Johnston

    I do a phone intake with new male clients where I ask a few questions like, "Have you had a massage before?" "Do you have anything specific going on?" From their answers I can sort of get a feel for them and usually I can tell if they are legit or not. Then, I explain exactly what they can expect from the moment they walk in until we are finished with the session. When I am explaining what they can expect I mention that I use professional draping methods for their comfort and mine so they know that I'm legit. From there I just look for signs. Most of the time, if they are looking for more than a therapeutic massage they will ask questions too. For example, if they ask more than once "What type of massage do you do?" that is a red flag. Or, if they want to know if I will just work on their gluts or thigh's Obvious red flag.

     

    I don't take them on the same day and I don't take walk ins at all. I found that typically the ones that are looking for more are in the mood and want it now. I think above all, you should use your intuition. If something doesn't feel quite right and you have a feeling about someone then don't book them. Just politely say that you are not taking new clients but thanks for the call. I haven't had any problems with this since I got dialed in on my screening abilities but when I first started it was definately an issue. Just don't be afraid to follow your gut.

  • up

    Erin S.

    I work in a sports facility, not a spa, I don't do walk-ins, my intake says no sexual behavior will be tolerated, I have my own office area but there are always people in the sports section of the facility...all of the precautions one would think to take. I have a client who I have seen a few times and recently he has been getting more, umm, comfortable with me?

    Two sessions ago he wiggled on the table, I would stop and work another area and when I had him turn I noticed an erection. I chose to overlook it because I know that this sort of thing can happen. He is an older man, I have worked on his wife and I am non-confrontational so I was too shy/embarassed myself to say anything. The most recent time, same thing, but when I went to change the sheets after the client left I noticed ejaculant. Now, I don't know much about the male organs so how and when things come out when one is not arroused is beyond me. Needless to say, he has made me feel uncomfortable in my own business. Any advice on how to tell someone they are no longer welcome at your establishment?

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    Bob Pyle

    Dont see how you can avoid those hit and run people with that attitude. I would personally escort them out by the ear. Maybe a more indepth pre-interview if you suspect anything from anyone? See if you can draw their intentions out before you touch this person? Just a few thoughts from me. :)