Effective communication with the client is essential in massage therapy, as students in will learn. While it鈥檚 true that applying the right strokes is chief in massage therapy, effective communication will allow you to find out more about your clients鈥� specific needs, and tailor your sessions or treatment plans to help them achieve their health goals. Whether you鈥檙e conducting an initial or follow-up interview, adequate time must be allotted so you can gather enough information that might affect the therapy鈥檚 efficacy.
Before massage. You need to know about any recent injuries, health issues, or sensitivities and allergies your clients may have. For instance, if a client comes to you with bodily pain, help them to be more specific about what they鈥檙e feeling. How intense is the pain? How is it limiting their ability to perform daily activities? Is it due to injury or did the pain occur gradually? Asking questions like these will help you get more specific information to plan a therapy session suited to your client鈥檚 situation.听
During massage. Some clients like to talk during their massage therapy session but many will prefer to relax and keep to themselves. Regardless, you have to ensure they鈥檙e completely comfortable. Is the music, lighting, temperature, etc. fine? Ask clients if they feel anything 听should be adjusted so they can get the most out of the massage therapy.
It is also important to ask if you鈥檙e applying the right amount of pressure. Although pressure induces relaxation, you have to ensure that it鈥檚 not too strong or too faint. Ask simple questions like 鈥淚s the pressure okay鈥�? As a professional you may be expected to know this, but asking for feedback shows that you pay attention to their comfort.
After massage. The end of the session is an ideal time to ask your clients their impressions of the massage session. Has it helped alleviate their pain? Do they feel more relaxed now? The goal is to make them realize the benefits of massage therapy and why they should consider regular appointments. If the clients seem disappointed, probe further to uncover their concern. Moreover, don鈥檛 forget to teach them about basic self-care as this shows you鈥檙e concerned more about their long term well-being than just your business. Find ways to stay in touch with your clients. If you get information that might be of benefit to them, share it with them to establish a good relationship and encourage loyalty.听
Marketing may get clients through your door but effective communication promotes repeat service. A like East West College considers it a crucial component of their curriculum.
Sources
Listening to Your Clients, 精东传媒 Today
How to Communicate Effectively with Your 精东传媒 Clients, 精东传媒Magazine.com
