ArmyMike's Massage Interview
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
I saw the movie Living Out Loud. If you haven't seen it I recommend the movie. There's a massage seen there. I was in the army at the time and knew I had to go to school for something that would put me thru college. So my massage school was three evenings per week. I often had to get back to work afterwards after class to get my work done. I was the head administrator.
Yes, my first massage client was exactly like in the movie. But really just that one. After that, I got more professional.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
I don't expect to ever stop massaging. Maybe I'll stop advertising. But I don't expect to ever leave the work behind me.
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
If we define success by wealth, then no. I don't seek riches from massage. But if we define success as feeling and being told I've done a good job, absolutely. I think I leave my clients happy to have met me and feeling the same way of them.
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
I would like my clients to know that I love them just walking in the door. I generally believe all people are good people and have value. Even if we disagree on politics or some foreign policy, I meet a person and assume they're good.
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
Hopefully they want me back.
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
I'm a total news junkie. And sports. Probably won't catch me having watched the latest movie.
Why did you become a Masseur?
Wasn't that the first question?
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
Lots of advice. First, don't ask for your clients' pics. That's gross. Second, factor in that some folks will want to just sit and have a drink and talk a bit before the massage. They're inviting a stranger into their home. It's no wonder they'd like a get-to-know you moment. That absolutely should not count against their massage time. Third, always be willing to set your boundaries (dont mislead) and have the courage to walk away from the money if the client crosses the line.
Lots more. I've been a therapist almost 20 years. Feel free to contact me for more.
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
The biggest difference is money, I think. I want everyone to be able to get a massage. I'm not trying to get rich. I don't care about being rich. I have other work. If you're a cab driver spending 12 hours a day in the driver's seat, you should have access to a massage.
How long have you been a Masseur and how long do think you'd like to continue?
Almost 20 years now. Probably will only stop when folks stop hiring me
How often do you travel? Do you prefer to travel or are you more of a homebody?
As in a hobby? I've seen most places. I haven't been to Asia yet but those flights are just too long.
Is extensive training necessary for a Masseur in order to be successful?
The legal requirements are enough. Therapists and clients should just be honest about what is available. If the client is suffering from chronic pain, maybe say that. And if the therapist doesn't understand what that entails, maybe say that.
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
That they want me back.