Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/70065
First impressions are most important. Greeting new clients with a firm handshake and welcoming smile, and using their name to invite them back to the treatment room go a long way to alleviate any insecurities about receiving massage. Once there, explaining what will happen (draping, areas worked, etc.) and asking if they prefer you not touch certain body areas, and which they prefer you focus on, makes them feel listened to and in control of the situation. I also let them know it is OK to tell me when they need more or less pressure or if they are too warm or too cold, so I can adjust it. I ask them if they have any questions for me and take time to answer them, then I check in with them during the session to make sure all is well and they are enjoying themselves. Amy Fontaine Charlotte, North Carolina When a new massage client comes to me and I feel their nervousness, I immediately let them know that I am glad it is me they came to first. I tell them my stories of how I felt about my first massage, and I try to put them at ease. I take a little extra time with their client information form and go over in detail how I might be able to help them. I let them keep their clothes on if they wish. I show them anatomy charts and make them feel they made the right decision coming in. I am constantly checking in with them and really go out of my way to make them feel cared for and nurtured. It is these types of people that need us the most. We really feel wonderful after we have nurtured them back to health and hopefully get them as return clients by just taking a little extra time and compassion. JUDI WAY IDYLLWILD, CALIFORNIA The most common fear potential clients relay to me has to do with size. I am slender and those who see themselves as overweight often apologize or question that I will be judging them. I give a very direct answer. I tell them, "That's the great thing about massage! The human body fascinates me. All bodies are different and I enjoy the exploration. I don't really even see that, I see the function and where ease could be brought." This is truly how I feel. I know myself to be genetically lucky, that's all. Another approach I use is to tell people what I love about doing massage. I tell them my favorite part is the result: being able to see daylight between the ears and the shoulders, the flush of fresh oxygen and blood to the skin, deeper breathing—these signs tell me results occurred. ROBIN WEST GARBERVILLE, CALIFORNIA There have been times where I've explained to people what I do through casual conversation and the responses I get even make me feel vulnerable at times. Then and there, we're eye to eye. Explanation, being friendly, and laughter are simple steps I use to feeling comfortable; when others are comfortable, I'm comfortable. I ask them to explain their views and then I explain mine. Both explanations stated, I see more clearly the reasons why they are timid and they may have a different outlook. Jokingly bringing up massage benefits begets laughter, the best way of feeling at ease and releasing stress, tension, and negative thoughts. Though it may be just a chuckle, it's the first sign potential clients feel at ease with me and when ease is present, insecurities melt away, leading future clients to know I'm a stress-buster. That's what I do. CARLICIA HUNTSMAN IDAHO FALLS, IDAHO For first-time massage clients, finding out what their expectations and reasons for the visit is vital. Oftentimes, the most reluctant clients are the ones who are in need of a massage the most and have possibly seen health practitioners prior to seeing a massage therapist. If their purpose for the visit is to reduce neck, shoulder, or lower back pain, explain the process of your massage and adjust to their needs with their feedback. A clear intake form, draping procedure, and pricing should be included as well. MEG SHERWOOD SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA connect with your colleagues on massageprofessionals.com 29