The End is Near

Courtesy of Gruar Codrin @ freedigitalphotos.net

That's right, I'm talking about the end of 2010!  As any business owner or independent contractor knows, there is a lot to be done at year's end...  Of course, there is the typical paperwork and prep for tax time...but what else should we be doing at the end of the year? 

Do any of you take the time to reflect on the year you have completed?  It makes good personal and business sense to think back over your accomplishments (and failures) through the year.  Make note of what has worked for you and what hasn't.  Then...Ouch, this is the hard part...You need to apply it to the next year!

Here are some thoughts to get you started...

Has your massage practice grown in 2010?
Would you like your practice to continue to grow?
Do you utilize social networking?
Do you have an effective website?
Has someone helped you build your practice?  If so, can you give back in any way?
Is there someone who can help you build the resources you need to succeed?
Have you planned your continuing education goals for 2011?
What marketing projects worked well in 2010, and do you plan to use them again in 2011?

It is a good idea to map out your marketing strategy for the new year ahead of time.  Look back on what promotions you did this year.  Were they successful?  If so, put them on the calendar for 2011.  If not, do they need minor adjustments to be successful, or should you put your energy into a new idea?

Last, be thankful for the year...the good and the bad...and grow from all the lessons you have learned!

If anyone needs help planning their massage practice for 2011, please contact me.  I will be happy to help!

Will You Be My Friend?

A network...a support system...people with whom you can share ideas and information. 

In my blog poll last week, 67% said you have a large network of fellow MT's, leaving 33% who do not.  (I'm giggling to myself because these numbers sound so official, but I really only had 3 voters.  Hey, that is 3 voters more than I expected!)  So, for the 33% who do not have a large network of fellow MT's, it is very important to build that network.  I will be happy to help you.  For the 67% who already have a large professional network, do you rely on them for anything specific?  Do you connect with the therapists in your network often?

Why do we need a support structure comprised of fellow MT's?  In rural areas specifically, aren't fellow therapists our competition?

Well, connecting regularly with other therapists can help you maintain perspective, give you new business ideas, inspire you, or recharge your passion for helping others.  Networking with therapists in your local area may seem counterproductive, but once again...we are from Southern Illinois, and that makes us special!  Seriously, when you live and work where the market requires atypical consideration, regular contact with other local therapists can benefit you both.  It does require a specific frame of mind...where you are aware that each party wants/needs to benefit themselves, yet each party brings something beneficial to the relationship.

In addition to your local network, it is helpful to connect with therapists throughout the state and across the country.  The Midwest is generally known to be the last place to pick up on trends, including health information.  However, in the world of Massage Therapy, Illinois is a hub of activity.  Northern Illinois is home to the AMTA Illinois chapter and the Massage Therapy Foundation.  Both organizations work diligently to bring recognition and validation to our profession.  The Massage Therapy Foundation funds research to prove the effectiveness of massage, which paves the way for massage recognition in the medical community.  These are two organizations that provide a lot of opportunities for MT's.  What better way to network than to become involved with one or both? 

If you don't plan to volunteer with these associations, at least keep up to date with the massage community.  Check the Massage Therapy Foundation website regularly and read up on the latest research.  Use Facebook to connect with other therapists and group pages associated with your specialized modalities.  Read the blogs I have listed on my blog watch.  There are many opportunities available to MT's who remain current with news in the "massage world."  I invite you to network with me.  I also encourage you to make local connections.  Become informed and aware!