Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/68013
HEART OF BODYWORK Whether you are self-employed or work for someone else, pay attention to how you dress and your language and tone. This is just common sense—no tank tops, shorts, or cleavage when you're working. And no giggling, wink-wink, or flirting when you talk about your work with clients or in public. Take yourself seriously as a professional and others will follow. Make sure your business card doesn't send a mixed message. Cards that give no last name, that simply say, "Massage by Bill" or "Relaxing Massage by Jennifer" are less professional and may give clients the impression you have something to hide. Since sex workers usually don't give their last names when they advertise, it's important that you provide your full name and credentials (professional association membership, state license number, and so forth) to establish that you're a legitimate massage therapist. Using the term therapeutic massage and naming your particular technique, such as sports massage, is also helpful. To ensure your privacy and professionalism, list your business phone number, not your personal one. MISTAKEN IDENTITY If you advertise your massage or bodywork practice publicly, you may not be able to avoid the occasional low moment of someone assuming that you are offering sexual services. Even if you choose your clientele carefully, you have to be prepared for the occasional inappropriate or offensive questions on the phone and perhaps even in your office. Here's an example: A colleague was befuddled when a first-time client asked if she provided a "happy ending." Not having heard this euphemism for sexual release, she said, "Oh, yes, I like my clients to enjoy their massages." When he then described what he wanted in plainer language, she was quick to tell him she didn't offer sexual services and that she wouldn't work with him if that was what he wanted. Although fielding such questions on the phone can be uncomfortable, dealing in person with a client who expects sex can be annoying and even frightening. Though it's only a remote possibility, such a situation could also be dangerous. Some female practitioners avoid these problems le, s," 118 massage & bodywork may/june 2009 altogether by limiting their practice to female clients. But, of course, that can limit their potential client base. (Women clients are generally less sexually aggressive than men. They can be seductive, for