« What They Don't Teach You In Massage School | Fingertips Home | Privacy Must Be Respected »

July 31, 2007

Professionalism Is Important

I don't want to stomp on any one's freedom of expression, but if you want people from all walks of life to patronize your business, you need to present yourself and your business professionally. Choosing a name for your business should not be taken lightly. A couple of people from the graduating class before mine went into business together and named their joint venture "Babes In Toyland." I know Babes In Toyland is the name of a band and maybe they are die-hard fans, but for someone who doesn't know the band, what kind of impression do you think that gives people? Misspelling for cleverness (such as Bodywerks) and simple misuse of punctuation (such as Hot Rod's) does not convey professionalism.

Many people who pursue massage certification are fresh out of high school. I say great! Unfortunately, their professional experience may be limited simply from lack of opportunities or life experience. Professional development and business classes at massage schools need to coach people on basic telephone skills which is another scenario where role playing would come in handy. Anyone who owns an answering machine knows from experience that people mumble, talk too fast when leaving their phone number, or simply forget to include a number at all. Speak slowly and clearly. If you have an unusual name, spell it (if you are leaving a message, not answering the phone). Practice what you need to say or write it down. I write down my telephone greeting and file it so I have a script to read. If I need to alter my greeting for times when I'm out of the office, it comes in handy to have dates and times right in front of me.

In my state, laws require that our license number is printed on all advertising. This reassures potential clients that we are working legally and under certain by-laws and standards for the industry. I include my state license number on my business cards. I display my business license and state practitioner's license on my wall so that people can see them easily. Going the extra mile on professionalism not only presents you as serious about the work you do, it reflects on the industry at large and engenders trust among potential consumers. And if you don't have trust from your clients, you don't have a business.

tags: massage massagetherapy wellness massage therapy bodywork health massage ethics massage practice building

Posted by linda at July 31, 2007 10:40 PM