Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1315831
L i s te n to T h e A B M P Po d c a s t a t a b m p.co m /p o d c a s t s o r w h e reve r yo u a cce s s yo u r favo r i te p o d c a s t s 27 Creating a code of ethics adds strength and structure to your priorities and can be a way to think through the goals of your business, as well as a way to reiterate your strengths—and remind you of the weaknesses you are working toward solving. FOR MORE LEARNING Catch Allissa and Michael on their weekly podcast, Massage Business Blueprint, available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and massagebusinessblueprint.com. WHAT GOES INTO A CODE OF ETHICS? Your approach to creating a code of ethics may vary, but I decided that my code of ethics should contain three parts that consider my responsibilities to clients, colleagues, and myself. Notice that there is certainly an overlap of the following three areas, but that's a good thing! There is always plenty of overlap in our small, caregiving massage businesses—that's just part of who and what we are. Responsibilities to Clients • Provide the best possible care given my abilities, and refer out if a client's needs are not being fully met by my services. • Work only within my scope of practice as defined by my state regulations and by my training. • Keep clients emotionally and physically safe. • Vigilantly protect confidentiality. Responsibility to Colleagues • Be respectful in written and verbal communications (both with and about colleagues). Responsibility to Myself • Prioritize my own needs regarding boundaries around privacy, time, and income. • Maintain clear and complete financial records that adhere to business and tax regulations. • Commit to continuous learning on topics that impact how I connect with my clients and colleagues regarding racism, ableism, and other forms of discrimination faced by marginalized and unserved communities. The very process of thinking through your priorities for conduct and values is illuminating. The results can guide your future decisions and relationships, and the growth and reputation of your business. Allissa Haines and Michael Reynolds are found at massagebusinessblueprint.com, a member-based community designed to help you attract more clients, make more money, and improve your quality of life.