10 ways to go from stumbling to streamlined in your massage messaging

Okay, what you read in the email could be a scene from Dumb and Dumber.

You're confident in your massage therapy skills. Now it's time to make sure you can promote it properly.

Because if you can't, your potential clients won't come back. And they'll probably tell their friend about this awkward encounter.

Yoinks.

Let's transform this cringe-worthy conversation into a client-winning interaction in 10 steps.

1. Massage therapists: Confidence is Key

If you struggle with self-confidence (in your skills or selling your services), you'll come off as uncertain with phrases like "I think they're good" and "maybe you can get a massage?" You can do this well!

💡 What to say instead: "I haven't seen you in ages! It's been so good to connect. I'd love to see you again in the office."

2. Casual Language

While a friendly vibe is great when your ideal clients are surfers, terms like "bangin' lotion" and "stoked" are probably a tad too informal for a professional setting. Yes, you want to be approachable but also maintain professionalism.

💡What to say instead: "I've been working with a new organic cream company. If you are overwhelmed by scents, no worries. I've got unscented too!"

3. Be Specific

Saying "if you’re, like, feeling tense or have a sore back or whatever" lacks clarity. It would be more effective to clearly outline how a massage can help alleviate those issues.

💡What to say instead: "Does your back still bother you? I've got some tools in my massage toolbag that may just do the trick."

4. Consistent Availability

Phrases like "maybe weekends" and "as long as there's no good concerts" suggest a lack of commitment. Clients appreciate clear and reliable scheduling, so being specific about availability is key.

And if your hours are flexible, that's totally fine!

💡What to say instead: "What days work best for you? My hours are__on that day. Let me know if you'd like to set something up!"

Or "My hours are flexible on that day, so let me know what works best for you!"

5. Communication Preferences

Saying "Don't call, because I never answer" isn't ideal. Simply suggest your best method of scheduling.

Confession:

I've learned to say this because I HAVE told clients I don't answer my phone (insert husband's mortified face.) When I'm away from my computer and I DO answer, I direct them online or just text them a link to my scheduler.

💡What to say instead: "I prefer you schedule online at (website name) so we don't have to play phone tag."

6. An Actual Call to Action ("CTA")

The invitation to book a massage is just plain weak. Instead of "Just let me know if you’re interested," a more direct prompt could encourage the client to take action.

💡What to say instead: "I can send you my website scheduler if you'd like."

7. Clear Identity

The phrase "in case you forgot, my name is {name}" feels awkward. It’s best to introduce yourself confidently without implying the client might forget.

(True story: I've seen my clients at the gas station, and they don't recognize me. 🤣)

💡What to say instead: "Hey! It's Lisa, right? I'm (name). It's been a while, so I thought I'd reintroduce myself."

(Note: don't violate HIPPA laws if they're with someone.)

8. Build a Connection

The conversation feels like you're just trying to sell them a massage session. Establishing rapport is essential in a service-based industry, and this interaction could benefit from a more personal touch.

💡What to say instead:
"Hey there! It's so nice to see you again. How have you been since your last massage session? I remember you were dealing with some low back pain. How's that going?"

9. Reference Past Experience

There’s no mention of previous work together, which could help jog the client’s memory and reinforce the relationship. A simple reminder could go a long way.

💡What to say instead: (see no.8)

10. Organized Flow

It's easy to be taken off guard when you run into a client. If your best skill is massage therapy and 1-1 conversation takes a back seat, practice scenarios.

💡The whole convo, reimagined:

Hey! It's Lisa, right? I'm (name). It's been a while, so I thought I'd reintroduce myself. I haven't seen you in ages! It's great running into you again. How have you been since your last massage session?

I remember you were dealing with some back pain. How's that going?

I've got some tools in my massage toolbag that may just do the trick. It's been so good to connect. I'd love to see you again in the office.

Are you interested in scheduling something again? What day is best for you? Super! My hours on that day are ______. Would that work?

Unfortunately, I'm not able to schedule via text, but I'd be happy to send a link to my scheduler. You can just hop on there and schedule at your convenience.

Again, it was so great to see you again. I hope to see you soon. Take care!

🍪

You're one smart cookie, as Granny used to say. Just use words that convey caring, personalized professionalism.

✏️Homework:

Practice running into a massage client you haven't seen in a while. Can you sell your services without feeling like a dork?

Let me know how it goes!

Grab my free guide to adding bougie experiences to your massage practice!