Massage therapy helps people address muscle aches, pains and soreness through various hands-on techniques intended to increase relaxation and lower stress levels. Customers may visit massage therapy businesses on a weekly or monthly basis for treatments, or book massages to mark a special occasion, such as a birthday or romantic anniversary. Starting a massage therapy business can be profitable and personally rewarding if you enjoy making people feel better in an alternative health environment. Understanding information on starting a massage therapy business helps smooth the way toward a successful enterprise.
Licensing
Massage therapy businesses are required to operate in strict compliance with laws and regulations regarding licensure and permits. Apply for a business license, liability insurance and tax identification number. Massage therapists must hold professional licenses reflecting state-approved coursework completion, hands-on training and apprenticeship hours. Some locations may require health department approval; this may involve inspections for sanitation and safety considerations. Other locations may require massage therapy businesses to seek special business licenses for massage enterprises. This may involve a background check and getting finger printed. Apply for a retail license if you intend to sell massage oils, natural soaps or eye pillows.
Equipment
Although massage therapists rely on their hands to administer massage treatments, it's still necessary to purchase a variety of equipment specific to massage businesses. Treatment tables, headrests, sheets and chairs in the reception area will be necessary. Sound systems, speakers or portable stereos permit massage therapists to play relaxing music while offering treatments. You'll need warmers for heating massage oils, towels for customers to use while changing before or after massage treatments and shelves or cubbies for storing clothing. On the office end, purchase a desk, computer and accounting software, telephone and Internet access.
Employees
When hiring employees for massage therapy businesses, decide whether to pay employees an hourly wage or hire therapists as independent contractors. Independent contractors may also receive an hourly wage, or receive a commission based on sales from massage treatments. Business owners may wish to pay therapists higher rates for attracting and maintaining their own clientele base. This may discourage them from moving on to another massage clinic. Require all therapists to hold current professional licenses.
Marketing
When starting a massage therapy business, market to the local community by hosting a grand opening with massage demonstrations, talks about the benefits of massage therapy and special discounts for first-time customers. Flyers, posters and a website with booking information help promote your massage therapy business.
Liability
Require all clients to sign waivers before receiving massages. This helps demonstrate professional responsibility should anyone decide to take legal action against your business. Ask customers to disclose all medical information prior to receiving treatment. Avoid diagnosing clients; instead, refer them to a doctor for medical care when necessary.
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