What is a good way to boost my massage clientele business?
May 21, 2009 by Massage Tips and Techniques
Filed under More Massage Answers
Can you answer Gershom’s question about Massage?:
I am very qualified, but I find that I have a problem “getting the word out” about my business. What are some ways that I could promote my private practice to the “right” clientèle? Right being no perverts with the wrong intentions behind a massage, and returning clientele? I don’t have a place for them to come receive a massage, i would like to do inhome massage, however I’m apprehensive about unprofessional men and how I would feel safe.
I am very qualified, but I find that I have a problem “getting the word out” about my business. What are some ways that I could promote my private practice to the “right” clientèle? Right being no perverts with the wrong intentions behind a massage, and returning clientele? I don’t have a place for them to come receive a massage, i would like to do inhome massage, however I’m apprehensive about unprofessional men and how I would feel safe.
Thanks 
Relaxation Gifts
Massage Feedback: Unfortunately:
Sex sells.
The sexier women you have doing the massages, the more clientèle you’ll receive. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have perverts running amok, but still the same.
If a man has to choose between two, equally qualified professionals to give him a massage, one looks like a wilder beast, and one is incredibly pleasing to the eye, there’s no doubt which one he’ll choose.
No reflection on the service given, just on the aesthetic aspect.
So, as sexist as it may seem, the honest to god truth is, that if you want to boost the number of clients, increase the sex appeal. Sad as it may be.
Massage Feedback: Here’s a few ideas:
Contact local fitness clubs. See if you can set up in one of them. If not, ask if you can give a couple free massages to employees and then be referred.
See if a mall will let you set up in a foot traffic area during peak traffic times. The cost should be low and you’ll get a few impulse shoppers and plenty of curious onlookers.
Is there a college in your area? Contact the Student Union and see if you can put your table there, especially during exam weeks. Quick cash tip: Offer a 5 minute massage for 3-5 bucks. It’ll help you build clientele.
Contact doctors in your area. Bounce the idea of therapeutic massage off them and ask for referrals from them. Also see if there is an underutilized space available dirt cheap.
Befriend hairdresser and cosmeticians. Ask for referrals. If there is a stall available in the establishment, negotiate for it.
Register with the BBB in your area. Put up flyers every place that will allow you to. Have a phone line dedicated to your business (it’s tax deductible). State that you offer in-home massages, your rate, and that you will return their call at your earliest convenience. When contacting them, ask if their wife/significant other will be present. If there is a hesitation or lewd comments, professionally end the call. If you can have a friend accompany you to/from sites, do so. At the very least, keep someone informed of your whereabouts and ask them to contact law enforcement if they have not heard from you by a specific time.
Makeup company representatives (Avon, MaryKay, etc) are also good resources.
Odd as it sounds, if you’re in a metropolitan area, consider checking with a car dealership. Generally, one spouse is better with financing details and negotiations. The dealership may be interested in having someone on site to occupy the other person and close their deals more quickly.
Check with the library or YWCA/YMCA to see if there is a small conference room or other area that is available during specific hours. Rental of that would be less than a commercial space.
Good luck to you!