Managing a Massage Therapy Business

The ultimate goal of some massage therapists is not just to create their own massage business, but to build that business into a thriving center employing other therapists with a variety of bodywork specialties. There are many things such a practitioner will need to know about managing a massage therapy practice. A major goal is to make money, but for most massage therapists, it is not all about the money. They also want to provide a truly meaningful service to their clients. In order to succeed with both these things, therapists will need to look at their businesses philosophically, practically, and legally. They will need to develop business and marketing plans, consider franchises, and purchase sufficient liability insurance. There is a range of equipment and supplies in which they must invest, as well as software to help with successfully managing their business. They will need to stay abreast of legal issues and court cases related to massage and know the laws for their states, counties, and cities.

There are several financial considerations to managing a successful massage therapy business. Tax planning strategies must be investigated. Unless one has a financial backer or access to other financial resources, learning about business financing options is an important step.

The business courses offered at massage school are a good beginning to establishing a company. But managing a massage business is complex. Among the items that must be considered carefully are where to locate the office, what hours to keep, and what criterion to look for when the business is ready to hire additional therapists. Unless the therapist has a degree in business as well as considerable experience in building businesses of this kind, it is probably best to begin by developing a client base first. A massage therapy business will succeed if it is built on a solid base of satisfied clients who will tell others about the services.

Networking is also important. Joining the local chamber of commerce as well as a local organization for professional bodyworkers is a good place to start. Volunteering at a senior center, hospice, or other health center, or offering 10-minute chair massages at a business or public gathering spot are all ways of generating clients. While the therapist is building his or her base, it is a good idea to visit with a few established professionals. The beginner can ask questions about how they have built their massage therapy business.