10 Small Things that Make a Difference in Every Massage Practice

Often as massage therapists we think we need to learn some impressive new skill to amp up our practice, but the truth is, that it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference.

Here are 10 small things you can do in your practice to provide awesome care to your clients:

1. Punctuality

60 minutes should be 60 minutes. Clients DO notice when they’re shorted their treatment time. It feels unfair, even if it’s just a few minutes. Start on time and end on time. Conversely, some therapists may think they’re doing their client a huge favor by giving them extra massage time. While some clients may love this, it may be inconvenient for others if they have another appointment or obligation. If you are going to go over-time, be sure to ask permission first.

2. Table Warmer

I can’t tell you how many clients rave about my stupid table warmer (or complained when it’s broken!). There’s nothing worse than being cold during a massage. If you don’t have one of these, you should get one! I like this brand: Wellhut Massage Table Warmer Heating Pad

3. Online Booking

Many people don’t want to pick up the phone! Online booking has been a game-changer in my practice. Clients love it. I love it. It’s a no-brainer. People don’t want to do that annoying back and forth conversation. I use Jane and love it. Noterro is also amazing. If you want a free option, look into Setmore.

4. Direct Billing

I’ve heard from several people that they only book with massage therapists that offer direct billing. Yes, it’s a bit of work to get set up and a few extra minutes to submit the claim, but you will attract new clients and retain current clients. We can show our clients that we care by helping with this aspect of their treatment. If you need some help with direct billing, please check out my course Direct Billing for Health & Wellness Practitioners 

5. Easy Payments 

Whether you offer direct billing or not, you should be offering easy payments to your clients. Don’t. Make. It. Hard. For. People. To. Give. You. Money. Enough of this “cash only” or “e-transfer only”. If clients want to pay this way, that’s fine, but you should have a credit and/or debit option as well. Square has been great for my practice as well as Jane Payments. I even give people the option of storing their credit card securely with Jane.

6. Secure Draping

Tuck those sheets in tight! Nobody likes stressing about whether they’re exposed or not. Don’t be lazy especially with the leg/glute draping and be sure to help your clients feel comfortable.

7. Listening & Remembering

If a client asks you to not work on their legs, then don’t work on their legs. If a client tells you they have sensitive skin, don’t slather them with essential oils. Take good treatment notes so you can remember things for next treatment. Also remember to read the treatment notes before their treatments. In some charting systems, you can keep a little note section at the top that is not part of their actual file for things like “going to Mexico – ask about it next tx”. If you keep paper files, you can write it on a sticky note.

8. Atmosphere

Things like music, soft sheets, comfortable massage table, lighting etc. all make a huge difference. These things may be seen as an expense, but if it generates revenue for you, then it’s worth it! 

9. Oil/Lotion

I’ve tried many oils, lotions, and gels over the years and the best has been Holly Oil from Gecko. It washes out of the sheets well (nothing worse than musty sheets), it’s inexpensive, and doesn’t leave a sticky grease on people. A lot of RMTs have been using coconut oil. I used to as well but it’s not my favorite for a few reasons. 1) It’s highly comedogenic, which means it can clog pores! Ah! 2) It’s quite greasy 3) It leaves my sheets and clothes smelling weird. If you’re going to still use it, PLEASE for the love of all things holy, do NOT put it into a container and dip your fingers into it, then reuse that container for another client. It’s so unsanitary! You either need to put a small amount into a designated bowl or container for each client, OR put it into a pump and warm it up.

10. Birthdays

If it’s your client’s birthday, acknowledge it! A small package of tea, a small discount or add-on treatment, or little treat is a lovely gesture but not 100% necessary. Even just wishing them a heartfelt “happy birthday” goes a long way. 

The little things add up and make a huge difference to our clients! What can you change in your practice this week?