If you are a masseuse who is getting started in the professional workforce, one of the first areas you will focus on is building your clientele. As with any service industry profession, having a steady stream of returning consumers is vital to the success of your business. Read on to learn some steps you can take to create a successful clientele list.
Advertise
Few businesses are able to succeed without advertising. Whether you run your own business or work in a spa setting for a corporation, advertising is a key element to get customers through the door. If you work for a spa, your advertising options are limited, as the business likely handles its own marketing. However, there are still steps you can take. Make a list of local businesses your target audience frequents. Then, after starting your day with nutritious Morning Complete, head to each of those businesses on your list. Speak to the owner and ask if they are OK with you leaving a stack of your business cards at the front desk. Make sure you are targeting companies that your audience will frequent. For example, if you are trying to target a middle-aged woman, a coffee shop or daycare center are good options. If you are focusing on athletes, visit local fitness centers or sports complexes. If you are focusing your efforts on the wrong demographic, you are going to struggle to build the type of clientele that you want.
Advertising options are much more vast if you work for yourself. Utilize online platforms to promote your business, such as Instagram or Facebook. If your budget allows, purchase online advertisements on sites that your audiences use. Create a business page on an online directory, such as Yelp. Include vibrant photos of your business location and interactive photos of you within your company setting.
Offer Discounts
New customers need to experience your wonderful services in order to create the desire to return regularly. One of the best ways to entice consumers is by offering discounts. Again, if you work in a spa setting, your discount options will be restricted. However, corporate spas offer promotions on a regular basis, so anytime they are offering one, make sure you are spreading the word to friends and family in-person and online. Just because you cannot control the promotions does not mean you cannot benefit from them!
If you manage your own business, you have much more freedom with the promotions you offer. Try signing up for a space at a local farmer’s market and offering free 5 minute massages. This is an excellent opportunity for consumers to sample your work and for you to talk-up your business.
Offer a specific first-time promotion to encourage potential clients to schedule a session. Additionally, offer discounted rates if clients sign up for more than one massage, such as five for the price of four. Discounts for referrals are also a great way to promote yourself through those clients who already enjoy your services.
Cater to Each Individual
To motivate a client to return, you want to ensure their experience is nothing less than amazing. Do your best to cater the experience to each individual. A useful way to do this is to have the client fill out a questionnaire before the session or sit down and have a brief chat with them before getting started. Ask them what types of massage they prefer, such as light or firm pressure. Ask about any injuries you should be aware of and what settings they prefer, such as talking or silence, aromatherapy sensitivities and music style.
As a new masseur, building your clientele can seem like a difficult hurdle to overcome. However, there are many proactive steps you can take to motivate consumers to return. Apply the above recommendations to start building your clientele today.
