a community of practitioners

Marketing my business...

Hi all... I currently work for a local chiropractor in addition to my personal clients, however, I am looking for MORE WORK in my local Jacksonville, FL market. Does anyone have some ideas on how to market myself to stand out above other applicants? I would appreciate any input!

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mike Hinkle on July 20, 2009 at 8:47pm

Hi Kelly,

Join an association, go to classes and get certified. Every step you take make sure it gets in the business section of the paper called "People on the Move" or such. As people see you continue to grow, they will invest in you, just as you are by becoming better to take care of them. Check out the group MassageNetwork here on this site by Gloria Coppola. She has a way to market your business, without costing much. Talk to everyone, they have all made it, "their way", as will you.
Keep the Faith!

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Gloria Coppola on July 20, 2009 at 8:52pm

Hi Kelly!

Mike is correct. Get your training! Most of all get your face and hands out in the community. I always made
sure I participated at every local event, health fair etc. People like to know who is going to give them a massage. It gives you an opportunity to network and they get a 'feel' for you. Offer an intro class to your neighbors/community . Sometimes adult community schools are looking for new classes. I started one many many years ago and as a result , I opened a massage school. LOL. That's how popular it became and my practice was always booked out 3 months in advance.
If you are in an area with a senior population - market them. They love massage. Give them a "coupon" or senior discount (they love that stuff). Nice thing about the senior population (i have experienced) is they put you on their calendar regular, like a doctor appointment. Hope that gets you started.
Remember to shine your light and you will always be bright, Gloria
www.MassageNetworkNews.com
www.MassageProCe.com

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Felicia Brown on July 24, 2009 at 2:05pm

I just wrote an article about creating success in your massage practice in this month's Massage & Bodywork Magazine. Click here to check out the digital mag - my article is on page 36 - for FREE:-)

Above what I mentioned in the article, in terms of being above the cut as a candidate, I have always looked for therapists who were flexible with their attitudes and schedules, and who clearly made an effort to put their best foot forward. Just today I was thinking about "worst interviews ever" and remembered a therapist who started off his face-to-face interview by taking off his shoes and sitting Indian style in a chair my office. He did great work, but I did not hire him due to his lack of understanding (and respect) of what manners and protocols would be required of him to work in a high-end spa.

I also encourage you to follow up with a thank you note to your prospective employer. Send it as soon as possible - perhaps on your way home from the interview!

One question I might ask though...do you really need another job or can you spend the time and energy instead on reaching out to past clients? It is actually easier and more cost effective to solicit business from people who already know your work. And keeping your places of employment down to two will make your life and travels a lot easier.

Hope that helps!

Felicia