Massage therapy is a thriving industry with an exceptional amount of freedom for those choosing it as an occupation. But how does one become a massage therapist, and what steps are needed to succeed once you have chosen this path? This is where we come in. Here is a list of the 10 steps needed to become a (successful) massage therapist.
1. Acquire all necessary licenses
In order to offer massage therapy services to consumers, you must have a certification that shows that you have completed the necessary courses in massage therapy. You can easily get this from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMD). In doing so, you can specialize in various practices, such as sports therapy or remedial massage therapy.
2. Get a business license
Another form of license that you will need is a business license. Do a quick search on the laws in your state for starting up a business. Often, your local city hall will be able to provide with all of the information you need.
3. Find Liability Insurance
Finding liability insurance is absolutely essential to starting your massage business. Because you will responsible for covering any liabilities for your clients if you do not have liability insurance you will be taking on risks you can not afford to take on. Insurance can also help you afford to handle a lawsuit in court. Before purchasing insurance, be sure to review the benefits of the massage liability insurance package. Like any service, not all providers are the same.
4. Choose a catchy name
A good name can go a long way for a new business. It will make marketing and the spread of your business through word of mouth much easier. Consider what will sound good as well as what will look good on business cards, logos, and social media profiles.
5. Find a workplace
Many massage therapists work from home or travel to clients if necessary. Decide what is best for you. If you can afford to rent space for your business, you may be able to service more clients as well as attract more clients. Look at rent costs for businesses in your area and determine whether or not you can afford it.
6. Create a list of expenses
You will need to determine what all your expense will be and what they sum up to. This will help you get a sense of how much capital you will need to start your business. The day to day expenses for your business can range from marketing costs to materials for your massages like lotions and creams. Also, consider the big, one-time investments you will need to make like buying furniture or massage chairs.
7. Consider a business loan
Once you have a sense for how much capital you will need to start your business, you can determine whether you will need a business loan. You may need to present your business plan to banks. Another option is to seek out investors who may be interested in partnering up with your business.
8. Market your new business
There are many ways to spread the word about your business, from a website to handing out flyers in the community.
9. Register with health funds
Clients who use massage therapy services often claim it on their health funds. This will make your services more affordable to clients, so do make sure to register with these funds.
10. Ensure customer loyalty
A rewards program is a great way to keep clients coming back for your services. You can also ask for suggestions from clients and keep an email list.
