Choosing the Right Workplace for your Massage Therapy Career

If you recently graduated from massage therapy, you may be getting ready to head into the workforce. But, there are a few things you should consider when choosing the right workplace for your massage therapy career.

One of the major benefits of a career in massage therapy is that there is a range of options available to you when choosing a path. Having an education in massage therapy gives you the ability to explore different modalities and choose a trajectory that suits your unique needs, goals, and interests. 

It is important to consider which kind of work environment you want to be in. Do you want to work in a spa or wellness center, a chiropractor's office, or a physical therapy clinic? Do you want to start a private practice or a home-based business? Do you want to work for a corporate company as an on-site massage therapist or in an international hotel? Each type of workplace will offer different experiences and opportunities, so it’s helpful to know what you're looking for. 

Once you know what type of workplace suits your needs, you’ll have an idea of where to look for job opportunities. Researching businesses in your area that match your preferences is a great way to start. Look at their websites and social media pages to get an idea of what they offer, what their philosophy is, and if it aligns with yours. Don't be afraid to reach out to potential employers to ask questions. 

If you’re looking to start your own business, there are a lot of factors to consider. First, you'll have the freedom of taking on as many clients as you like, setting your own hours, and becoming your own boss. This also comes with a lot of responsibility and commitment and involves taking a business perspective. Whether or not this is right for you depends on your own goals. 

After graduating, it may be helpful to start working for an employer right away. This will allow you to have clients instantly accessible and to be able to start making money without having to put any of your savings into building a new business. Working for an employer can help you develop your skills in the industry. It also gives you the opportunity to learn the in’s and out’s of the industry and business . A job at an established business can guarantee you consistent work, offer flexible hours, guide you personally and professionally, and provide advancements in your career. 

Finding a job in a company with the right culture for you is crucial and can sometimes be a challenge. Make sure to ask about the work schedule, compensation, and any benefits that are offered. Find out what kind of clients the business attracts and what type of services they offer. You'll want to make sure that the workplace is a good fit for you and that you'll be happy and comfortable there. Another thing to consider is continuing education. The field of massage therapy is constantly evolving, and it's important to stay up to date with new techniques and technologies. Look for workplaces that offer opportunities for continuing education - such as workshops, conferences, or reimbursement. Deciding what’s right for you may take some time, but a career in massage therapy gives you many opportunities to figure this out. 

If starting your career in an existing clinic is best for you, Massage Heights offers a positive workplace culture. With over 10,000 program holders and over 150 registered therapist providers, we are a safe and established workplace that offers affordable and quality massages. Our employees are not contractors, and they have access to a range of benefits. Massage Heights offers many perks, including summer staff BBQs, quarterly retreat events, a year-end bash, sponsored events, and even a yearly self-care allowance. Employees also receive a 50% discount on Lululemon products. With the best therapy tables on the market and complimentary aromatherapy, Massage Heights provides a clinic wrapped in a spa-like setting - offering therapists the opportunity to elevate their everyday. Our philosophy is focused on taking care of our employees, which in turn helps therapists take care of their clients.  

With so many options and endless possibilities, it’s sometimes hard to know which direction to follow. The good news is that you have a lot of growing room. Graduating from massage therapy school is just the beginning of your journey. Take the time to consider what kind of workplace you want to be in, research potential employers, and ask questions during the interview process. And remember, continuing education is key to staying relevant and successful in the field of massage therapy. If you’re looking for an opportunity to pursue or need a little guidance, we are happy to speak with you about how Massage Heights provides the essential to living a balanced lifestyle and developing your career in massage therapy. Visit our careers page or reach out to us with any questions you may have. Careers | Massage Heights