Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/72343
"Of course!" I blurted. The way he asked indicated he wasn't sure if it was OK to request a second appointment. Being my first massage ever, it never occurred to me that clients need some guidance on a treatment schedule. It never occurred to me to ask him to rebook. After a couple of decades in the profession, I now know that simply asking each client to rebook their next treatment can mean the difference between a struggling practice and a thriving one. With the tracking that I've done with therapists in my clinic, I can tell you that therapists who routinely ask clients to rebook can make up to 60 percent more than therapists who don't ask. Here's how to do it: • First, be sure to recommend a treatment schedule to your clients. The ideal time to do this is after their first session with you. Give an honest recommendation on what you feel is in their best interests. You can say something like: "To resolve these headaches you've been having, I suggest you receive massage two times a week over the next two weeks. We can evaluate your progress after that and see how your body's responding to treatment. How does that sound?" Find out what they think of your proposed schedule and discuss other options if necessary. • At your reception desk, simply ask, "Would you like to book your next few treatments now." Assuming you've discussed a treatment schedule and you have agreement with the client, it's a simple matter of booking appointment times that are convenient for them. • If the client is unsure of his or her schedule, then book something tentatively. It's always easier to reschedule an appointment than it is to try to reconnect at a later date. If a tentative appointment is not possible, make arrangements to call your client at a specific date and time when the client has access to his or her schedule. Take some responsibility for making sure your client gets the help and support he or she needs. With the tracking that I've done with therapists in my clinic, I can tell you that therapists who routinely ask clients to rebook can make up to 60 percent more than therapists who don't ask. tune in to your practice at ABMPtv 37