How to stand out as the go-to place for massage

Q: How can I make my spa stand out as the go-to place for massage?

Massage is still the most popular service in many spas, and to deliver the very best treatment, you need to return to the basics, ensuring staff are trained in the right techniques.

Firstly, your treatment menu should be simple and clear and your consultation form for massage very specific, providing the right information for your therapist. For example, does it ask about the physical and emotional concerns of the client? Do your therapists use this information during the consultation? This is vital.

To be the go-to place you also need to ensure that the treatment room is comfortable for the therapist to give massages in. You should have an adjustable treatment bed and enough space for the therapist to move so they have access to the client without overstretching or bending their body unnecessarily.

Therapists should also be aware of the role they play and why they need to take good care of themselves. There should be full recognition of the risks involved, from physical injury and emotional burnout to even mental disillusion with the job. The techniques your therapists use must also be effective and safe for them, as this will increase staff retention and improve client satisfaction.

As an employer, you need to implement a supportive structure for your team, equipping them with the tools that allow them to work effectively to deliver the very best in massage while staying healthy.

Beata Aleksandrowicz is co-founder of the Pure Massage Spa Training Method. Read her piece on how anxiety and stress affects therapists and take her advice on preventing staff burn-out.