You’ve done the hard work and intensive training, and you’re excited to be a newly minted graduate of massage school. Up until recently, your instructors have guided your path. But what happens next?
Well, now that you’re on your own, the sky (and your certification) is the limit! As a massage therapist, you can choose to look for work in a traditional setting, go freelance (this guide from Selfgood explains more about that), or keep going and get more education.
The first thing to decide before you start your job hunt is which of those avenues speaks to you. Then, you can begin following these tips to attract employers or clients as a new massage therapy school graduate.
1. Get Licensed and Insured
Once you graduate from massage therapy school, you have the credentials that prove you know what you’re doing in the field. What you don’t have just yet is a license.
The type of license you need depends on your state. Generally, you’ll need a state registration, certification, or licensure. But you may also need a license to practice in your city or county. If you’re running a business, add a sales tax and small business license to your list of must-haves.
Licensing Versus Certification
Confused about what your license offers that your certification doesn’t? In summary, professional certification is a path in which you learn the knowledge necessary to meet a recognized standard. This includes your education and experience, as well as a specific exam that tests your skills and abilities.
When you complete all of those steps, you’ll receive a certificate from the agency certifying you. However, that agency’s credibility and integrity must be accepted by the public, which is typically done through an accreditation process.
Until you have the certificate, you can’t obtain a license. Licensure gives you permission to get a job in the field in which you’re certified (massage therapy). A license is a serious step, as you must follow the laws that regulate it.
Most states require massage therapists to have at least professional liability insurance before they can start working with clients. Look into the insurance requirements in your area. If you already have coverage, you may find it easier to get jobs.
2. Look at Alternative Job Locations
The job market for massage therapists is generally in high demand, but it depends on the need in your area. If you’ve looked at the traditional massage establishment path and can’t find work, there are other alternative places that need someone with your skills.
As a licensed massage therapist, you can work in locations such as:
- Conservative care offices, such as chiropractic clinics
- Health clubs
- Salons
- Wellness centers
- Day spas
- Resorts
- Fitness establishments
Keep in mind that your style of therapy should guide you to your potential places of employment. For instance, if you prefer giving relaxing, Swedish-style massages, you may want to head to a day spa or resort. But if you love making aches and pains go away with deep tissue therapy, look at places like chiropractic clinics and fitness centers.
3. Show Off Your Training and Certifications
What kind of massage therapy training is in your bucket of skills? When you apply for a job, be sure that any training and certifications over the standard are highlighted.
Applying for a therapeutic position? Let your potential employer know that you trained with a mentor in areas like Connective Tissue or Neuromuscular therapy. Looking for a relaxation therapy job? Your background in Spa Therapy, Corporate/Chair, or Swedish modalities will get your foot in the door!
Remember, the person reading your resume or interviewing you doesn’t know anything about your background. You must showcase the skills you have that match the position best. And the more skills you have under your belt, the more jobs you’ll be an ideal candidate for!
4. Connect With a Network
Certifications in a credible profession, such as massage therapy, immediately open you up to a network of others in the same career. Sign up for a membership with the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) or similar organizations. AMTA is the largest non-profit professional association in the industry, but there are others that offer similar benefits.
As a member of these professional groups, you’ll get access to a network of people who you can mentor under and teach, cutting-edge continuing education courses, and discounts. Even better, you’ll receive notifications of job offers from employers who want to hire a therapist within your organization.
Should you decide to move forward with your certification and apply to become board certified, you’ll have access to a more exclusive network of others like you.
The board certification isn’t for immediate graduates but will help you get better job offers later. It requires experience, education, and an exam. Including the fact that you’re on the path to this qualification on your resume makes you stand out from other massage therapists.
Having that certificate in your name tells potential employers that you’re one of the best of the best in your field.
Conclusion
Finding a job can be challenging regardless of the field you’re searching in. As a new massage therapy graduate, you still have a few hurdles to jump before an employer entrusts their clients to your skilled hands. Follow these tips, and your job search will be more likely to be fruitful!
