Create Your Own Economy
Who doesn’t need a massage these days with all the stress in the world?
This is a job you can do on weekends, afterwork, or seasonal. You can earn anywhere from $45/hr to $200/hr for providing a good massage. This is a business that can be therapeutic for those with ailments or pleasure for those seeking an escape. Spas, salons, resorts, and hotels hire masseuses on a regular basis. Many go on to start their home based or traveling businesses where they take a table, and visit offices or homes. Below are some tips for getting out there.
1. Explore the different kinds of bodywork: shiatsu massage, sports massage, Swedish massage, trigger point and other massage and bodywork modalities and techniques. You may even choose to specialize in just one, like Shiatsu.
2. Look into the different programs of study that are available. It’s not as simple, as rolling up your sleeves. Investigate the programs offered by community colleges as well as those offered by private career schools.
3. Volunteer your services. I know this about making money. But if you volunteer for a few days at a community or senior center, people will ask for more. They will pay you. It is the easiest way to get clients.
4. Find out about certifications or licenses. Not all states require this, so look it up.
5. Get the word out. Advertise online, word of mouth, and via friends. Set realistic prices, provide a skilled service, and watch the money roll in.
But remember, be clear on your services when advertising, or else they may be expecting a “happy ending”. For more information go to the American Massage Therapy Association at http://www.amtamassage.org/.
@Maryann
If someone is planning on giving a legitimate massage, and advertising on mainstream health and wellness websites, then you will need a licence number because without one they will not let you advertise.
But if you advertise something a little on the erotic or sensual side, like Tantra and Lingham, then you don’t need one. Just advertise in places like
http://sensualzen.com/
http://www.cityvibe.com/
Personally, you will make more money if you offer sensual massage rather than just offering Therapeutic massage, but it’s all in what ever your comfortable doing!
I talked to some folks, and it seems like some disagree. A few say you don’t have to be ABSOLUTELY licensed to give massages. Does it matter? Someone I know doesn’t and does ok.
This is actually a fabulous way to make some extra money. But Maryann is right, make sure that your clients know that you DO NOT offer “Happy Endings” or “Full Service” because they will damn near BEG for it!
I buy all of my massage supplies from:
http://www.massagewarehouse.com/
http://www.newlifesystems.com/
I have 3 un-used massage tables that I’m looking to get rid of so if your interested, look me up!