WestCoastTherapy's Massage Interview
Do you remember your first client ? Tell us something about that first day when you decided to be a Masseur!
My first client was a great experience, as he was a collegiate swimmer from Texas... we had met at the gym, and we both had a mutual interest in massage. We actually traded!
Do you consider yourself a successful Masseur?
Very, as I mentioned in my profile I have worked on hundreds, thousands of men over the years... Success is only measured in the number of clients that return time and time again... Some have become very good friends over time. Also, I rarely travel from city to city. (Sometimes Tulsa or Wichita) In my opinion, being successful is developing a client base over time, creating a professional in home environment that have clients return again and again.
Some people say that being a Masseur is addictive. Would you miss your Masseur days ?
I would truly miss the interaction with people... as I mentioned many clients have become good friends.
How do you like clients to feel about the experience when they leave?
First and foremost, I want clients to feel that their time and hard earned $$ has not been waisted... and that they truly have had a nice session when they have departed... We all have experienced booking a massage for an hour and it actually lasts 15 minutes... CHOOSE YOUR THERAPIST WISELY... never pay upfront! Never give a CC over the phone.
Is extensive training necessary for a Masseur in order to be successful?
Getting some basic training is absolutely necessary... But with that being said, many therapists have a natural gift for touch.... there are many online videos out there that one can watch to remind themselves of different techniques.
How often do you travel? Do you prefer to travel or are you more of a homebody?
I do travel from time to time, but not often... I prefer being in my own home studio. I can control the environment much better and deliver a better overall experience. Nothing worse than being cold on a massage table!
What distinguishes you from all the other Masseurs?
I think of myself as a genuine nice guy. No attitude, delivering a top notch massage with reasonable fees. (What is it with guys charging $150-$250 and beyond???) Also, personal hygiene is very important to me, as well as living and working in a spotless environment. Fresh towels, linens, are all important... I also value a clients time, and I strive to be completely ready for them upon their arrival.
How would you like someone that contacts you for a massage to feel when they leave?
I would hope they depart already looking forward to their next session!
What are your hobbies, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Like most therapists, I enjoy the gym, and living an active lifestyle.
Tell us a little about yourself, if you were to pick something what would you like your clients to absolutely know about you?
Even though I do massage as a side job, I take it very seriously. I have a strong work ethic, and strive to deliver an overall great experience.
Why did you become a Masseur?
I genuinely enjoy meeting people and the one on one interaction of energy is very calming for me.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Masseur?
It is hard work! Not as glamorous as it might seem... Everyone needs touch - some clients are fake, will flake, waste your time, etc. - roll with it. Don't let those guys discourage you or change your attitude, be true to yourself and your client base will be solid!
How long have you been a Masseur and how long do think you'd like to continue?
18 years... I think I have a few more months, years in me.... :)