You may be wondering about tipping and massage. Keep reading to find out about my no tipping policy.
I Have Had Some Explaining To Do
It has been lovely to meet some new clients recently. Most have found me on social media. So great when I get new clients this way because then I know my marketing is working. And double points when someone refers me on social media. I love it so much! Thank you!
With these new clients, though, I’ve had some explaining to do. The conversation goes something like this, “Oh. You don’t take tips?!”. It seems that it is very puzzling for folks, so I thought I would take the opportunity to explain….
Late last year, I took a really great intensive massage business course. Took me 8 weeks of hard work and re-examining EVERY aspect of my business. And I do mean EVERY. From the type of client I want to attract, to my business name, to my specialty, to the problems I was having in my business, to the financial aspect of my business, what to charge, etc.
During the training, I dug deep and changed a lot of things. For example, I changed my business name, which was attracting some clients that were not a good fit for my business, to a more generic and location-specific business name. After a lot of soul-searching, I chose a niche, which is supporting women with anxiety and/or depression. And I decided, on the advice of my instructor, to adopt a no-tipping policy.
No Tipping Policy
The first reason for the no-tipping policy is pretty simple. In running a business, I need to be able to predict my income. And, let’s face it, tips are unpredictable. So I decided to set a fair price for my service. Everyone knows what I charge. There are no extras like some spas have. My clients are paying for my time and expertise at a flat rate.
Another reason for this policy regarding tipping and massage is that I found there was sometimes awkwardness at checkout. With a no-tip policy, I can just keep a card on file and check the client out quickly so they can stay on schedule and get to where they need to go next. There is no pressure to leave any extra, no expectations. It’s just simple and clear.
I Don’t Mean To Hurt Anyone’s Feelings
I would be remiss if I didn’t say that I sincerely hope I am not hurting anyone’s feelings. When a client wants to show their appreciation by tipping, it means a lot to me. So this new policy isn’t perfect.
However, I got to thinking, one way to show appreciation, instead of a tip, would be to write up a review or recommend my business to others. I’m currently trying to build up my Google reviews, for example. (Here is the link if you’re interested.) (And if you’re not pleased with your service, please let me know. I am always looking to improve.)
Anyway, as with most business decisions, this policy is an experiment. So far, it is working out well and I intend to keep the policy.
If it really bugs you, though, I’d like to hear from you. Please feel free to email me here.
Thanks for reading. Have a great week! Hope to see you soon!
If you’d like to make an appointment, please text/call 972.813.9083 and I’ll get you set up. Established clients can click here to book.