Steps
- Create Values Statements - find out what you value most so that you can be sure your values are represented in the next step.
- Create a Vision/Mission Statement to determine the direction of your business. Once you know what you stand for and where you are going, all business decisions can be made on the basis of whether they support your vision or not.
- Make Informed Consent Statements. Putting it all together in a statement that you can use on your website, in marketing materials and provide to new and potential clients, will help you further clarify your intentions and attract the ideal client.
- Think about your ideal client. It is not just about finding a certain population, like athletes, to work on. It is about finding clients who will have the same philosophy about health and healing as you do. What does your ideal client value?
- Know what you do. What Solution do you provide? It is more than just the benefits you read about everyday on every massage therapist's website.
- Have clear goals - 3-10 Year Visions. Where will you be in 3-10 years? Include all aspects of your life. In order to be successful in business, the rest of your life must be balanced. Try having monthly goals as well.
- Keep organized financial statements: expenses, budget. How much money do you have and how much will you need to live for a year or two while the business builds? This is crucial as most people just think that just because they open a business, clients will arrive with their checkbook in hand!
Tips
- The other most important thing you can do while you start/build your business is to join a professional peer supervision group to support you on the way. Too often helping professionals forget how to ask for help as they are so busy helping others first. The key to a successful and rewarding practice has more to do with taking care of yourself first!
Sources and Citations
- http://www.massagepracticebuilder.com/bb_business_plans_massage.htm
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