How to promote your Holistic Business

Published on 10 January, 2014 | Holistic Therapy

Promote your Holistic Business

Many business are feeling the pinch this year, with increasing bills and outgoings quite a lot of therapists are choosing to work from home. This not only saves money on expensive premises, rents, heating etc but as well as keeping your overheads down it also offers you the flexibility to work around your family commitments. 

We know that people who are self employed tend to work longer hours than those in a 9-5 job, however the benefits of not having to rely on others for childcare or knowing you do not have to beg your boss for a day off to visit the dentist or to visit a sick relative is just one bonus. I know of a very successful therapist whom although after many attempts at trying to gain full time employment without success decided to set up her own massage service with very little outlay. She was always interested in this subject so studied whilst still working part-time from home. Once she received her qualifications and purchased a massage portable bed and obtained the relevant insurance cover, she then proceeded to advertise herself as a mobile massage therapist. Once her business started to take off, she then gave up her part-time job and now works as a mobile therapist with a regular client base.

Could I work for myself?

If considering this option then take time to answer a few questions first.

Are you self motivated? – Can you offer a service that others want or need in your area? – Do you have the passion and drive to work for many hours with possible little income at first? Do you have the support of your family and friends? Working for yourself can often mean you may feel a sense of being alone, after all its your business and only you know what is fully involved, however having the support of family and friends can really help.

How do I start?

Firstly advertising yourself can be quite expensive. Ads running in local magazines and newspapers can work out costly.  To ensure that you know which adverts work for you consider running a promotion and offer either a free gift or discount code. This way you know where they have seen you and if your advert is paying for itself or you are just wasting your cash.  As more and more people are now using the internet to find out information and book services, ensure you have a working website and a contact form that you respond to.  Some people will contact you this way first to ensure they get a response, this shows that you are professional and care about your clients.

How to obtain the correct Insurance cover

As a professional therapist and if working in peoples homes especially you will want to have adequate insurance cover. There are a few insurance companies whom specialize in offering therapists like yourself the necessary cover. Check out a few quotes first to ensure you get the best deal.  Insurance cover for holistic and alternative therapists. 

Join a Professional Association

If you are a professional healer or therapist then you will want to show your clients that you belong to a professional organisation. This offers your clients confidence and shows you take your professional seriously. The International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine has been offering independent therapists the opportunity to join them for a very low membership fee and will allow you to advertise your therapy to the very people whom are looking for your service.  As a member of the IPHM or other similar professional bodies you should also be eligible to obtain your holistic insurance to enable you to practice your therapy legally.