For massage clients, there is real benefit to receiving massage therapy regularly. But, getting clients to rebook appointments isn’t always easy. Read on to learn some strategies and tips for getting your clients back in your practice.

Gabriel Antuna-Rivera

“In this climate of massage, and especially compassionate touch, I encourage my clients to structure a day around their appointment, as opposed to ‘fitting’ it into their regular schedule. It’s proven to be quite effective and gets them to slow down in a time where there’s still simply too much to do.” 

Jeffrey Montoya, DHPE, LMT, BCTMB

“For me, the most important factor is the correct frequency of massage. Many times, people want to come once a month and expect miracles. Most massage research studies use weekly (or more frequent) massage when they show results (such as decrease in pain). I like to book new clients with sessions about a week apart for their first three to four sessions, then they can come in monthly or even six to eight weeks. I explain my rationale and experience when treating their presenting issue and suggest a series of massages after their first session. I have found having a plan builds client confidence and loyalty.” 

Mandy Root, LMT

“Determine what their needs and goals are for the session, and make a specific treatment plan. I have found this to be true for both my clients at the spa I work at, and also for my personal clients. Clients are more likely to rebook if they know how frequently you want to see them, and what the plan is for future sessions. Another thing that has been very effective for me with my personal clients is that I have a loyalty program. For every four massages that they book and keep, I give them their fifth for free. It’s a great way to thank my clients, and make them feel special.”

Shania Sonneville, LMT

“Honestly, the best way to get clients to rebook is to have a treatment plan ready. I always follow-up first time visits with an e-mail that outlines some of my observations and lists their goals, which should ultimately be established in conversation before and after the massage. I offer memberships as well, which really makes life easy for me and my clients. I have created a consistent cash flow based on automated payments, plus it encourages clients to see me at least once per month.”

Valerie Smothers, LMT

“As my client is paying, I simply say, ‘and when do you want to come back?’ Most will say three or four weeks. Treating my practice like I want it to be seen by my clients is an important part of the confidence of my clients. Also, clients don’t rebook if you constantly have to reschedule them (because of you, not them), don’t have consistency in your work schedule, or don’t return calls and texts.” 

Nicole Tellez, LMT

“I always remind the client why they came in the first place and reiterate everything they wanted me to focus on during intake. That way the client cannot say ‘You didn’t focus on this/that.’ I explain what I noticed during the massage and relay the information back to the client. This helps the client know I was focused on everythng they said and can trust my professional expertise. Lastly, this is the part where some of us don’t want to feel like we are ‘selling’ our services, seem desperate, or say ‘perhaps they don’t have a lot of money or time available.’ I was always told, ‘A client will spend their money as long as they see something good that positively impacts them.’ Meaning, if they see the worth, they will spend.” 

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