Datkins's Massage Interview
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
Well I decided I was interested in massage therapy when I was in my early 20s and I stayed at The Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. Then in my early 30s I dated a massage therapist and took classes in deep tissue massage. My first real paying client was a man who actually became a regular client. His back was so tight I didn't really get to the legs, but focused on his back the entire 90 minutes. But his back finally lossened up and he was very very grateful. I think of him often.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
Yes, I very much would miss it. Not just because I love doing it but because my muscles would miss the workout. I don't know that everyone knows how much muscle you have to use to give a good deep tissue massage.
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
I do consider myself a successful masseur. Mainly because I am happy doing it still. The day that I am not happy giving a massage and start looking at it more as a job, is the day my success starts to wane.
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
I am extremely easy going and laid back. Most people feel immediately comfortable and at ease in my presence. So getting people to really relax comes easy for me.
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
Relaxed, satisfied, and kinda like a bowl of Jello.
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Well obviously I love giving massages. But I also love being outside and enjoying nature. I also have a affinity for crystals and minerals.
How long have you been a Masseur and how long do think you'd like to continue?
Professionally I have been a masseur for 3 years, but have been doing it full time for about 6 months. And I think I will continue doing it on some sort of level until my body can not do it anymore. Being a masseur becomes part of who you are.
Is extensive training necessary for a Masseur in order to be successful?
Yes. I believe extensive training is definitely necessary for being a successful masseur. Get a massage from someone that doesn't know what they are doing and you will agree.
Why did you become a Masseur?
I became a masseur because I started really loving giving massages and realized that helping people relax was a talent I always had.....giving massages just adds to that.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
Never stop learning and listen to your clients. Always try to get feed back on likes and dislikes.
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
I take the time to make sure it's a good experience.
How often do you travel? Do you prefer to travel or are you more of a homebody?
I love to travel and do so as often as possible. Even if it is discovering new parts of Atlanta I have never been to. I am still somewhat new to the city.
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
Satisfied and relaxed.