What's the buzz about business?

 With working a full time job, running a business, the writing projects I have and just life in general its hard to be focused and present all the time.  For the first time in a little over a month, I feel I am starting to get a good grip on being present through each massage, through each movement and technique I was right there, focused and willing to let go of all outside distractions. It was such an amazing feeling I wanted to encourage all of us massage therapist to try this. It makes such a difference in how the time goes, how you feel and most important how the client feels. This was even an hour and half massage, which usually by the end I am thinking about what the rest of my day will bring, and all that I have to do. Some things I do to try to stay present in my massage is look at each person’s body as a mission-or a goal. I have one hour to make a difference in these peoples lives, and how they feel, how am I going to do that? Each knot is a challenge that I must remove or at least loosen up as much as possible. Each technique is a dance, a movement, an exchange of energies, you don’t want your client, thinking “why am I all of a sudden thinking about my responsibilities?” In my personal life I have been getting more into yoga and meditation and being present in all that I do, work, writing, relaxing with friends, eating, and just beeing!!! If anyone else has suggestion for staying present in your massage practice please share, because I have noticed its importance and will continue to practice. Bee healthy. Bee happy. Bee Well, and Bee Present!!

 

Melissa

As human beings we are faced with alot of challenges in life. Some of these challenges are tolerable and easy to handle, but sometimes life can surprise us with more personal, intense battles. In a world so demanding of our time and energy, how do we carry on as though everything is fine, when inside we are falling apart? When you work in a field such as massage therapy, where its so intimate and with the exchange of energies, how do we cope and not let our feelings get in the way? Now what if you are the boss as well? How do we do it, how do we face the day when we are dealing with such emotional personal burdens?

I personally just went through what would be the hardest challenge I have had in life so far. It was hard because I was dealing with the emotional trauma as well as trying to maintain a business and my responsabilities as a health food store worker, girlfriend, business owner and friend. I feel when we work as  massage therapist its easy to give advice and know what is right for our clients, but when its comes to us we neglect to nurture and comfort ourselves. In a time of suffering I think its ok to be a little selfish and take time for you to heal. Go through the emotions, feel alive from them. If you are are angry, feel angry and let it out, if you are sad, feel sad and let it out!!!!Sometimes its ok to take a day off from the business. I know this is hard for alot of people, but just take a day to sleep in, go for a long walk, take a bath, like I said nurture yourself as if you would a client or a good friend. The sun will rise again and clients will call. We are always taking care of others and we must take care of ourselves!

Massage therapy is also a business, I feel, where people are more understanding, and willing to be flexible when it comes to their therapist’s well being. We take time to build relationships with clients so we can be honest with them. No one has to know details, but explain there has been a death in the family, or a terrible tragedy has struck you, and they will understand, they will most likely feel happy that you told them, rather than act as though nothing happened and go on to give a bad treatment. Massage is such an energy connection practice that you would be doing them a favor by not giving them your negative energy.

For some of us, and maybe all of us at some point can use massage therapy as our art, our creative outlet. When this is the case we may be having the worst day ever, but when the client arrives and is settled into your table waiting for your gentle touch to treat their issues, all of our “baggage” can disappear and we direct our focus on the client. This is the best scenario of course! We can all understand when this is not the case and your focus is on your challenge. I can not express enough to bee patient and take time for yourself, so you will be ready to take care of others. As massage therapist our main goal is for balance with health and happiness.  As we go through life things are going to surface that we don’t want to deal with, or that stresses us out, or lessons in life that really take alot out of us, we are human just like everybody else, and need what every other human would need. When in a time of sorrow, we must bee patient for our well-beeing as well as those around us!

 

Bee healthy. Bee happy. Bee well

Melissa

Winter time in Vermont can  be a complicated time for business owners. The weather can make a difference in how many clients keep their appointments, and how many clients have to cancel. In the past I had a hard time with what to do with clients that cancel. I know life is hard and things can happen so quickly and you may have to change plans. I also think that keeping commitments are very important. When I first started Bee Well Massage I set up a cancellation policy for my business. If you cancel within 24hrs of your appointment there is a $10 fee. Now this has been working perfect until the winter came around and the weather became an issue. You don’t know what the weather will be like within 24hrs of your session, I understnd that but feel that when you live in Vermont you should be able to drive in most weather conditions. Also with it being Jan/Feb people are coming to me with their gift certificates that someone had purchased for them as a gift. So now I have people making appointments for a free massage, and what do I do when they cancel? What do I do if they cancel more than once?

This is what happened to me and please tell me what you would do. Last Week I had two clients scheduled, both had to cancel because of the weather . The one client wanted to use her certificate. This person had already canceled on me twice in the past and I let the $10 fee go because it was supposed to be a free massage for her. But this is the third time she canceled so I have decided to charge her the $10 fee for her next massage. When she left me the message saying she had to cancel I was upset, when I called her back she did not answer so I left her a message and I explanied to her there would be a fee of $10 for her next massage due to the fact she had canceled three times.  I have not heard from her. The second appointment was for a friend and this was only his second massage with me, and had never canceled. So when he called to tell me he could not make it I was very nice and said “its ok lets just reschedule.” We set up another time for him and that was that. I got off the phone feeling guilty that I had treated them differently and was more flexable and patient with my friend. After thinking about it I realized it was ok for me to react that way because they were different cases. Well my friend was supposed to show up again yesturday for his massage and he had to cancel again. This time I was not so nice and am going to let him know also about the $10 fee.  I feel from now on there will be no chances, if you cancel you pay a fee. The person getting the massage is responsable for the fee. I am just wondering what other business owners have set up for when clients cancel? Any advice on how to get clients to take your business as seriously as you do? Thanks I look forward to your response

Bee Healthy. Bee Happy. Bee Well.

With the holidays over, and as I settle into 2009, I can’t help but reflect on the past year, and all that I am grateful for including my business. When it comes to owning a business how much does karma and the law of attraction effect it?  Well my belief is more than we will ever know. When I first started Bee Well Massage, time management was a big struggle and still is. I  work 32hrs. at a health food store, I also write for a publication as well as other random projects I like to get involved with along with taking time for my boyfriend of 3 years and 10 year old dog, as well as run BWM. All of these things in my life bring me great joy, but it is a lot of energy to distribute.  There were times when I had to reschedule massage or change my work schedule. I would have to cancel plans with friends and change plans last minute with them and my boyfriend. It was just short of chaotic. Clients started to cancel on me, they would not take me or Bee Well Massage seriously. I had had enough, and decided  I would dedicate two days a week to massage, and only book three a day. That way I had time for clients, family and still one day off for me! With that being said my massage schedule is not flexable but its consistent and makes it so I am more reliable to my clients and friends.

I have had issues in the past with people wanting more than the proffesional massage I provide. I was so confused as to why I was attracting these people in to my business. I took a step back and came to the conclusion that nowhere on my website did I have a disclaimer explaing I am a proffesional and only practice therapuetic massage. I also had to look at all the “free” places I was advertising. When you first start a business you are trying to get your name out there as much as you can, of course, that is what you are supposed to do, but we also work in a somewhat risky practice. So even though it may be free it still comes at a price. I have even stopped in the middle of a massage after a man had made a sexual suggestion towards me, and told him “Bee Well Massage practices the law of attraction and I am not looking to attract clients like you” he thought I was crazy but I don’t care. I ask the universe to guide me to reliable, polite clients, I visualise meeting clients that like my practice because it is proffesional and give thanks for the clients I have the appreciate the services I provide.

Each day I give thanks for my business, ask for success with the right clients and visualise it happening. I have set reasonable goals, that are all surfacing into reality. My clients are reliable, and have been perfect for me. I will always practice the law of attraction in Bee Well Massage and in all my life. I encourage you all to do the same.

BEE HEALTHY. BEE HAPPY. BEE WELL.

 

This was something I just wrote for my website, thought I would share with you all……

Did you know that getting massages is great way to stay warm, healthy and happy this winter?

Massage techniques can improve circulation, massage moves the blood around your whole body making you feel warm. Also with the warm hands of your therapist moving along your body it can really relax your muscles and make you feel so warm and cozy! Do you know that you lose most of your body heat from the top of your head? Usually in the winter I like to spend some extra time on my clients scalp to really warm them up, along with a nice blanket that is really comforting. You will feel like a child being tucked in on a snowy winter night! So this winter before cranking the heat up, cuddle up with a special someone or your favorite blanket and just give your toes, fingers and scalp a nice massage!

Are you looking to maintain your healthy lifestyle you worked hard for even  in the winter, when it seems to get harder to acomplish your health goals?  With all the holiday parties, and cooking you will be doing this winter, as well as the natural cycle of your body craving those crazy carbs when you get a cold chill, massage is a great way to boost your metabolism as well as fight cellulite. So if you are feely guilty about that extra cookie or glass of eggnog, get a massage, not only will it help you forget about the previous snacks,  but it will help you feel fit and light on your feet again!

Have these cold, dark months got you down?Are you stressed by the snow, hoidays, lack of sun and anything else that  can the best of you this winter? Don’t stress, massage can help to beat those winter blues.  There is nothing better for yourself than to get a massage. With the smell of fresh lavendar in the air, some relaxing music for you, you get to just close your eyes and a nice therapist will take care and nurture you, you will feel the stress sweeping out of your body. When the massage is through you will feel, relaxed, motivated, and refreshed, as well as happy, and ready to handle whatever life may hand you next!

Massage is a very healthy way to lose those winter blues. Stay warm, healthy and happy this winter with the power of massage, let Bee Well do something nice for you!

MASSAGE TIP #2: when you get cold this winter, give your feet, hands and scalp a nice relaxing massage!  

The other day I was talking with a friend about certain back issues he was having. When I suggested  to him he get a massage he told me ” I can’t  get a massage, they are for rich house wives.” My  heart stopped and my jaw must have hit the ground because he had to ask me if I was ok. Of course I was, just in a little shock and very confused.  How many other people thought this about massage therapy? A massage does not have to be this long, dramatic day to the spa with your friends.  Massage is about healing and body working, which of course can be done in many different ways so find the one that works for you. Of course all massages should be relaxing but it should also be effective. If you want a spa treatment go to a spa, if you don’t, don’t go to a spa! There are plenty of other options out there for you so find the one you want.  Please please please do not get caught up in the idea that massages are only for the wealthy. We are all human, we all get stressed out, work hard, face challenges and get aches and pains. We are all deserving of massage.

Bee Healthy. Bee Happy. Bee Well…

 I have been in the massage business for about eight years. Within these  eight years, I have practiced massage on my own, but not as a business owner and I have worked for other people in spa’s and clinics. I have noticed now that I am a business owner I seem to get less tips. When I worked in the spa’s and clinics I did get tips, but the owners would not, which I thought was fair because I am giving them half of cost of the massage. What if you are a business owner, but you are the only employee. You do all the marketing, scheduling, and practicing. Is that work worth a tip or because I am the owner is that not necessary? Any thoughts? Bee Healhy. Bee Happy. Bee Well…..

Starting a business is really challenging for many reasons,. Somethings can be avoidedn but one thing you will always need for any business is customers. Not just any customers, you want to attract the right customers. Some people might confuse massage therapist for (lack of a better word) “prostitutes”". Please keep in mind that you are educated, you spent your hard earned money to get that education, along with your time to become a proffesional, don’t let anyone insult you and your proffesion. One thing that is really important to me in my practice is proper draping. I tell all potential clients that I use proper draping, and some people become clients and others don’t. If they decide not to get a massage from me because I drape, I don’t take it personally, its their loss, and I don’t want them as clinets anyways. For those people that do become clients, I find that they really appreciate the draping. It makes them feel safe that they are in the hands of a proffesional.

Bee Healthy. Bee Happy. Bee Well…

When you start a business you are going to want to get your name out there as much as you can, by giving massages to as many people as you can. One great way to do this is marketing events, and events where you will get to work on many people. These events can be very beneficial,  and sometimes it will even be worth it for you to practice massages for free, but be aware of people wanting your services for free and promising you a  ”business opportunity.”

People will approach you looking for a therpist to do massages for all types of events, and if they know you are a new business they will pitch the event as a networking thing or a way to help your business. LOOK OUT! Sometimes that is exactly what the event will be……but sometimes not.

About a month ago I was asked to do free chair massages at an event for a local business that is pretty large here in Burlington VT and a company that most business people would want to get involved with. I was told it was for three hours with as many breaks as I wanted, as well as I would be practicing massages for the “head-honchos” of this company. The person who was in charge of running the event told me it would be a networking opportunity, I would get lots of tips, as well as I could make 100 gift certificates to pass out in the goodie bags for each guest to take home.

When I arrived at the building where the event was taking place I was excited and ready to talk, and give massages. My energy was high and I was psyched! When I first walked in I noticed the woman who was my contact person, I got my station and my schedule. I gave her my certifictates that I made (by hand) and went to set up. It was not long that I took a good look around and realized that all the other volunteers were students. Men and woman who were still in massage school getting credit towards their certification. I then looked around more and all I could see were woman standing around, laughing, drinking wine, not interested in all about business’s or networking. My schedule said I was booked full for the three hours, which was fine-”tips”  I thought and if not atleast I could give out my business cards. I was so wrong. The woman were all there to get free massages, free pedicures and manicures, along with the free stuff they had in the raffle. I gave free massages for three hours straight-nobody gave me a tip, and very few people asked for my business card. Its not their fault, I was misled. You could also argue that maybe I am not a good massage therapist, but I do alot of events and I always atleast get tips or give out business cards.

Please understand that I am not saying “don’t do events” but what I am saying is make sure everybody involved is treated fair, and don’t get taken for what people will promise to be “business oppotunity’s” I have decided that after a year of pretty much doing all FREE massages I can pick and choose the events I want to give my time and skills to and you can too!

Bee Healthy. Bee Happy. Bee Well.

OH the world of business marketing, where to begin on such an endless task? If you are like me and are starting a business you probably do not have alot of money. If you are like me in two ways you might even have to keep a full time job until your marketing skills start working!  I do want to remind you that you now have a valuable skill, and to some people that can be worth money.  When I first started my business I traded massages to my webmaster, the person who designed my logo and business cards.  With a site, and business cards, you are off to a great start and have spent hardly any money. I am trying to do all the advertising I can for free. My advice however is to watch where you advertise. Make sure the websites you are looking at, or the places where your flyers are hung are going to attract the  clients you want. The best advertising for a massage therapist is recomendations from others, so go out there and talk, talk, talk, give your business card to everybody  you talk to. Sometimes you will find a place you really want your add in, so if money is an issue choose those places wisley, and do not be affraid to ask your clients where they got your information from so you know whats working and what is not. Marketing is something every business needs, and if you are doing it on your own try to think of fun,  creative ways to market your business to the clients you wish to attract with the resources you have! Thanks for reading, Bee Well….