How to Get a Job as a Massage Therapist
Distinguishing yourself in a particular area of massage is Kier's top piece of advice. She says this requires first identifying your passion within massage therapy and then working hard to become an expert in that area. The next step, according to Kier, is "practice, practice, practice." If the practice pays off and you are providing a good service to your clients, people will begin to refer friends, family, and co-workers. As a specialist in pain management and orthopedic massage, Kier is an example of how effective this approach can be. Even in this economy, she has a two-month waiting list, and often has to pass clients onto colleagues who can help them sooner. Picking a mentor who can help you learn the ropes is another way Kier says young massage therapists can get a leg up on the competition. "Get someone who has experience, and that person can guide you along the way," she says. "Get the benefit of their experience."
Interview Questions Submitted by Real Massage Therapists
"If a client has bumps or bruises on their body, do you mention it to them?" - Massage Green Massage Therapist Candidate (Dearborn, MI)
"What was the most difficult experience you had at work, and how did you handle it?" - Waldorf Astoria Massage Therapist Candidate (Orlando, FL)
"How would you handle an inappropriate client?" - Rockdale Medical Center Massage Therapist Candidate (Location Unknown)
What is the Job Like?
Massages are a relaxing experience for clients, but they are not always a walk in the park for massage therapists. Giving massages is physically demanding work that requires you to stay in great shape. Kier says she stretches and works out to stay strong. Maintaining a healthy diet is also important, which is why she makes sure to drink lots of water and to eat nutritious foods. Fatigue can quickly set in if massage therapists overwork their bodies. Pacing is crucial to avoid tiredness and, worse, injuries. Kier advises that massage therapists should know their physical limits to ensure they remain healthy and continue to provide a high quality service to clients. Due to the physical nature of the work, most massage therapists work less than 40 hours per week. Massage therapists work in many environments, including spas, hospitals, malls, private offices, and clients' homes.
Real Reviews From Massage Therapists
+ "They pay for linens and advertise for clients, you massage." - Massage Envy Licensed Massage Therapist (Houston, TX)
+ "90% retail discount. 90% off spa services. Nice atmosphere. Free coffee. Fun co-workers. Celebrity clientele." - Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas Massage Therapist (Location Unknown)
- "Although you work in a beautiful environment a pretty room won't pay your mortgage. You have to rely on tips to make a living otherwise you will sink." - Ojas Wellness Center Licensed Massage Therapist (Hunt Valley, MD)
- "Sometimes snobby guests can be rude." - Ritz-Carlton Massage Therapist (Naples, FL)
Review information and interview questions supplied by Glassdoor.
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