Scott_Summers's Massage Interview
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
Absolutely. There is something addicting about being a Masseur... and it's having the ability to heal. Video games, Comic Books, and Super Hero movies typically contain three character archetypes: Tank (AKA Shield), Damage, Healer. You see that? A healer! I leave work everyday feeling like a superhero. That. Is. Awesome! When your clients leave at the end of their session better than when they arrived, you've done your job. That's the reason I do this. And if you've never had a massage...what are you waiting for? It's time to TREAT YOURSELF and shoot me a message to schedule your first session!
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
There's a phrase we used a lot as a kid: "All that, AND a bag of chips". I want the client to know that I not only did I meet their expectations ("All that"), but that I exceeded them ("AND a bag of chips"). My number one goal is that, at then end of their session, my clients leave feeling better both physically AND mentally than when they arrived.
And if they don't...are Doritos okay?
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
Every Masseur will tell you that each massage should be catered to the individual based on their needs discussed prior to or at the beginning of their session. However, I feel it's important my clients play an part in designing their own experience, because they know (better than anyone) what TRULY relaxes them (e.g. the massage type, the background sounds, etc). This communication happens in the days leading up to their first session, so when they arrive, the focus is on them and their wishes.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
Make sure that you're pursing this work for the right reasons. This work can be physically demanding, so make sure you genuinely believe in what you're doing, or you'll fade quickly. Take care of yourself: Adequate rest breaks, washing hands frequently, taking vitamins, exercising, eating healthy, etc. Stay up-to-date on new and developing techniques, tools, and systems. And finally, build rapport with your clients. This doesn't always have to be through conversation. This could be through the massage. Clients will come back if you give a good massage, AND if they feel comfortable with you.
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Hobbies. It's so important to have them, yet it's always so hard to answer this simple question. I'll tell you why. I always have a "hobby" at any given time, but my hobbies change VERY frequently. So, I guess you could say my "hobby" is "changing hobbies". So you have an idea, here are just SOME of my hobbies since the pandemic in 2020: Cooking (which turned into a virtual cooking night), then Abstract Painting (first pour art, then pallet knives, then paint brushes) to happy little pine tress in silhouette with a sunset in the background, then I tried audio books, then podcasts, then friendship bracelet making (I went into Target after drinking wine, and I walked out with this gift that just kept on giving).
Why did you become a Masseur?
Massage can have such a significant impact on people. The power of human touch brings people comfort. Makes them feel seen. Makes them feel present. It allows them to feel cared for. There is so much going on in the world that impacts all of our lives collectively and individually. If I can put someone's mind at ease for 60 to 90 minutes, feel the tension leave their body, hear them take a big sigh of relief, I feel like I'm doing something to make this place better... at least for my clients.
How often do you travel? Do you prefer to travel or are you more of a homebody?
I love to travel, to experience new places, meet new people. I don't get to do it as much as I would like, but plan to prioritize that going forward. There are so many places abroad that I've never been...like Europe. I know, right? I've never been to Europe. Isn't that insane? So, I've created my bucket list of places I HAVE to go. Here are my top three: 1.) Europe- as much of it as possible 2.)Australia- The wildlife, the heat, the men...the accents...the men 3.) Hawaii- Just seems like paradise
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
I believe in my technique, I love what I do, and I've developed a regular book of clients. That feels like success to me. That said,I'm always looking to improve, to learn new things, and to establish more regular clients.
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
When appropriate, I bring levity to most situations, including my sessions. There’s a good chance I will say or do something to make you laugh.
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
Relaxed, renewed, rejuvenated, and ready to come back.
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
My first client was actually a buddy of mine. He was the one that inspired me to get into massage so it was fitting to have him be the first on my table. Memory from that day: Instead of traditional massage music, he had me put on a Taylor Swift playlist.
Is extensive training necessary for a Masseur in order to be successful?
This all depends on how good you wanna be. I feel like there are always new techniques to learn and implement. Keeps things fresh.