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Q: Hi Felicia,   I am currently an independent contractor at a place while the owner is gone for a few years. I am wondering how I could market myself without interfering with the owner's business, and how she markets her place? I have access to a free website, but she has a website. I don't want to step on the owner's toes and how she wants to run things, but I would like to generate some business for myself that would be able to follow me when I do start my own practice. A

Q: Dear Felicia - I am preparing to start my own practice and begin marketing my services. However, I want to save myself as much pain and heartache as possible when it comes to promoting myself. I have a limited budget, so every penny must be spent well. Before I begin I'd like to know the most common marketing mistake massage and spa professionals make so I can avoid doing the same thing myself. Thanks! ~ Ready For Success A: Dear Ready - Though there are certainly plenty

Q: Dear Felicia – How can I best find or hire mobile help for on-site events or outcall services? What are some questions I need to ask or items to request (such as testimonials, etc.)? Are there any specific concerns I should have? I’ve never hired anyone for this kind of position and at a bit of a loss. ~ Mobile Spa Owner A: In general, this is no different than working with any other independent contractor or employee. Follow the same screening practices you would for a

Q: Dear Felicia - I'd be interested to know your thoughts on massage memberships. Thanks! ~ Curious Therapist A: Dear Curious - When I first heard about massage memberships some years ago, I really didn't know what to make of the concept at first. The idea of offering what I saw at the time - rock bottom prices for massage and/or spa services for people who committed to monthly sessions seemed like a quick way to go broke. However, I’ve had many years of observation, educa

Q: Dear Felicia – I am 8 months pregnant. When the baby is born, I am going to "retire" for about a month. Although my spa will be open, I am afraid some of my own massage clients may be "lost." Can you give me any ideas about promotions or special offers I can use to stay in touch and not lose them? Thanks! ~ Expecting Mom A: Dear Mom - Congratulations on your pregnancy and pending expansion of your family. I know you must be excited about the changes even though you are wo

Q: Dear Felicia - I have some clients who book an appointment and then do not come. What can I do to "restrict" this problem? It makes me angry, especially if they do not call to cancel the appointment. I am also not so sure if it is good to call after the client does not appear to remind them of the appointment, or in order to rebook? Do you think if I do that, my clients would feel that I am "begging" them to book an appointment? ~ Maria A: Dear Maria - To cut down on the

Q: Dear Felicia - I am currently an employee and an IC for a company (2 separate pay stubs). My question is: Is it ethical for me to run my own specials as an IC? My contract with the company does not state anything in regard to prices or personal promotions. It only states the amount that will be deducted as an independent contractor. As a courtesy, I would definitely bring it up with the company. And also, thank you in advance for any advice you can give me. ~ Confused A:

Q: Dear Felicia – I have been practicing for 15 years.  I have always had to hold a job working for others because I have not been able to get enough clients to just work my own practice, and I am very frustrated.  I have decided that this year is the year I start to turn things around for my business.  I have never had any problem retaining clients once I have them, but I would love your help in learning to market myself properly to get the clients to call. I have been savi

Q: Dear Felicia - Have you heard of BNI networking? I have been invited to join. What are your thoughts? ~ New Therapist A: Dear NT -   When you are trying to get your practice off the ground, it is important to meet as many new people as possible and to share what you do with them. Networking groups can be a great way to do this. Go to the initial meeting and introduce yourself to everyone you can. Have a strong, confident 60-second "elevator speech" to easily explain what

Q: Dear Felicia - I am trying to grow my new massage practice and really want to increase my word-of-mouth advertising so clients will refer new people to me. However, I feel like I sound needy or pushy when I ask them to do this, so I don't ask very often. What can I do to get referrals without feeling this way? ~ Frustrated Therapist A: Dear Frustrated -   You know so many people talk about the need for word-of-mouth advertising, but don't know how to get it.  The reality

Q: Dear Felicia - I have a list of my clients who haven't been in for massage sessions in a while. Rather than send a text or email, I'd like to call and invite them back at a reduced rate, but I am having a hard time. I get so nervous and get tongue-tied, talk too fast, and have no confidence at all. Yesterday was a great day to make calls, but I couldn't get up the nerve to do it. Any suggestions on reaching out to clients with more confidence and better results? ~ Tong

Q: I'm having a difficult time right now. It seems like I'm just stuck in a rut with work and personal stuff, and cannot get anything to change. How can I get focused in a new direction? A: Mastering your thoughts and mindset is one of the most important skills you can learn. Though many of us did not learn that from our families or in school, tools and practices abound on centering, focusing, and getting into alignment.   Still, I find it helps to hear what works for people

Q: I've been hearing a lot about massage and skin care "competitions" and championships. Is this something I should participate in? A: That is an interesting question and one that I've seen a lot of "spirited" conversations about recently. Though I've heard a lot of criticism from some onlookers, the conversations I've had with people who participate in these events are overall very enthusiastic. In addition to what I've already mentioned, participants have shared with me ho

Q: "I offer on-site wellness events and classes for corporate clients. I have a variety of things I can offer (yoga, energy work, meditation, etc.), which I customize to their staff, space, and schedule. Though I've had success with these events in the past, the last few proposals I've sent out have not been accepted or answered. I'm not sure what happened, but am afraid I quoted too high a price. What can I do to make sure I'm getting a response back on my quotes and that

Q: I'm considering adding some new services to the menu of my mini-spa. I've seen a few technique classes that look interesting, but I am leaning toward purchasing an infrared sauna or mat to make money without taxing my hands. Any suggestions? A: Adding new services is an exciting opportunity to appeal to more clients and enhance what you already do. That said, you may want to do some market research before you invest in education or equipment: Do a survey of your existing

Q: For people who are spinning their wheels trying to grow a business, what is more important: having the right mindset and attitude or having the right professional tools (think booking software, professional supplies, marketing materials, etc.)? A: It is a combination, and some tools, strategies, and activities are more effective than others. However, when you beat yourself up about the things you aren't doing, having the right tools is not as effective. I'd rather see som