Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/135515
something to talk about The Social Network When talking about Facebook statistics like "users" and "posts," the numbers stretch into the billions, and even trillions. How do people sort through the digital deluge? Friends. In fact, 48 percent of Facebook users surveyed for ABMP's 2013 National Consumer Research Survey said they would "completely" or "mostly" trust a recommendation for a massage therapist if it came from one of their online acquaintances. (The site is so influential that fully 15 percent of users would trust a recommendation on Facebook that is not from a friend.) Does your practice have a Facebook page your clients can tag when they update their friends on the hot stone massage they just received? You've no doubt asked clients to recommend you to friends, but have you ever asked them specifically to refer you to Facebook friends? What about creating Facebook-only discounts for people who "Like" your posts, even if it's just $5 off their next massage? You can also try posting content that is easily shareable, like 50 words on how massage is great for golfers. Thinking about ways to engage clients with your Facebook page will create opportunities for them to share the content with friends. If you also incorporate online booking into your website, through a company like Full Slate, for example, you can book a new client without ever having to lift a finger. Your ambassador does something she normally does— post to Facebook or "Like" some content—and you benefit from the power of word of mouth. 92 massage & bodywork july/august 2013 A Massage is Worth a Thousand Words If you want to get people talking about your practice, it helps to know what they are already saying. During ABMP's 2013 National Consumer Survey, adults who received a massage in 2012 were asked what word or words come to mind when they hear the word massage. Consider asking your clients the same question, and see how the results compare.