Back in March of 2007 I presented a list of possible directions one could take their massage business to add additional streams of income, or transition a career hampered by repetitive strain or other health issues and circumstance.
At the time I was just brainstorming for fun.
There were several ideas that didn't make that list, but I've wondered how long it might be before someone came up with them. I wondered too if the technological age might change the way massage is delivered, or if practitioners might follow the move toward micro-marketing.
Well, no need to wonder anymore, because now I've found evidence that new massage trends and practices have caught on.
- How many of you have marketed massage out as piece work?
- Have you re-framed your modality or niche?
- How about mastering the "massage environment"?
- Or what about consulting for the massage enthusiast, company benefit plans, or senior health facilities?
Uhhhh . . . what am I talking about? It's simple.
Reinvent the way you see what you do!
Innovation can be a simple tweak to your current presentation of your massage business. If you haven't done this, or considered the possibilities, let this be a call to creative brain storming . . . even if it's just for the heck of it. Current trends can turn your massage business into an irresistible attraction.
For example:
- How about Piece Work?
How many opportunities have been lost to potential clients because they can't afford your full body price?
What could you do to change the conversion rate to your favor?
What if your offered a quick "Head and Hands" massage for $20. Maybe a 20 minute foot massage with a foot soak for $25. What about a 15 minute Low Back Release, or a body part specific to an injury or problem area?
Foot Spas are a new trend on the West Coast and seemingly popping up everywhere. (See Photo from San Diego's Palace Herbal Spa)
- Re-frame your modality or niche.
What are the challenges to marketing in your area? Is the sex trade crushing your image? What if you brand yourself a "Safe Touch" Practitioner. Put it on every marketing piece you have. How about a re-frame based in growing trends or leading health concerns like "Low Back Specialist" or "Relaxation Consultant"
What are the themes you see in your current customer base? Are they mostly office workers with similar issues? Can you add a service that specializes in "work station" stress reduction?
Utilize current trends in health and economy, travel and family life to create new ideas.
Massage practitioner inspires with her unique application. (See photo from Industrial Blend Blog )
- Master the Massage Environment
Some customers are highly sensitive to their surroundings. They like your massage, but the business next door is too loud, or the seat in the waiting room is uncomfortable. Sometimes the environment you create, or don't is a factor in a.) getting customers, and b.) getting customers to return. Simple surveys and open communication with customers is key to perfecting your formula for massage delivery.
Perhaps your innovative technique is re-creating your communication avenues and letting the customer know you are listening. Anything you can do to add value to the customer experience can be a boon to new and loyal customers.
(Google has used environment mastery to create somewhat of a massage culture. See photo from trendwatch/perkonomics article.)
- Consulting for the Massage Enthusiast, Company Benefit Plans, or Senior Health Facilities
What if you could implement a system that would bring massage clients to your business? What if you could handle customer concerns by educating up front? What if you could get paid for marketing to less mobile potential customers that could benefit most from your service?
Consulting and education for businesses with wellness programs, offering discounts to company benefit programs, or consulting to senior housing, senior well care, and senior assisted care facilities could turn a few hours effort into a continual referral stream. What service can you offer that specializes in these areas of growing demand?
Coaching is an option you may also consider. Corporate Wellness and Lifestyle Coaching are growing trends (See photo from Living the Fit Life.net )
The main thing is to refresh your ideas, your beliefs about what is possible, and watch trends that can be boon to business by reaching out. Consider customer complaints as an opportunity to fine tune your massage delivery. Keep track of market influences that are needing to be heard, and better yet . . . create something new and start a trend of your own.
Best of Success to you!
