Keep reading! We dig into common problems users face when running their business on the Mindbody Business app and compare MindBody to PocketSuite. 

What Is Mindbody Business?

Mindbody Business is a business management software for gyms, spas, and salons. It allows business owners to sell classes and memberships, manage clients and receive payments. 

Mindbody also functions as a marketplace for health and wellness businesses. Potential clients have their own consumer app, where they can browse through hundreds of businesses on the platform and purchase fitness classes and beauty services or even join memberships. 

Mindbody is almost inescapable in the fitness, health, and wellness space. You might have used Mindbody to register for fitness classes at your local gym or even currently run your business on the platform. But, on both the business and consumer sides, there are pressing issues that can’t be ignored. 

Don’t take our word for it: Just look at the thousands of complaints from clients and business owners who use the app.

What’s the Problem With Mindbody Business?

On the surface, the Mindbody Business app seems like a great solution to run your business. But, the reality is much different.

Here are the top four reasons Mindbody Business may not be a good fit for your business.

#1 Complicated Features

The MindBody app boasts a long list of business management features, a personalized branded app, and a suite of marketing features to help you attract and retain clients. However, the most useful tools like short-term “boost campaigns,” automated drip campaigns, and feedback and review requests are only available to Ultimate or Ultimate Plus subscribers, i.e., Mindbody’s most expensive tiers. 

Customers report that the app is difficult to use or prone to breaking. According to reviews, even the most basic features, like booking, break often. And what’s the point of a booking app that doesn’t book correctly? It seems like what you’re left with is an over-complicated and frustrating experience. 

You can find business software that has the same functionality as Mindbody, is more user-friendly, and performs consistently. 

#2 Vague Pricing 

If you go with Mindbody Business, you choose between four tiers: Starter, Accelerate, Ultimate, and Ultimate Plus. But, the company no longer discloses business pricing on its website. So, you’ll have to request a quote or demo to determine the real cost of the software to your business. According to Trust Radius, Mindbody Business tiers range from $129 to $599 per month!!!.

Don’t put away your calculator just yet. You will be charged an additional 20% discovery fee each time a new client finds and purchases your services through the Mindbody consumer app. The fee won’t apply to returning clients or membership purchases. But still, it feels like you’re being punished for growing your business. Not only do they charge hundreds of dollars more than competitors, but they nickel and dime their customers too.

And these aren’t the only fees you’ll pay. For example, Mindbody’s strongest selling point is probably its suite of marketing features, like promoting an introductory offer so your service gets more visibility in the Mindbody app. But this will cost you extra (on top of an already hefty price tag).

Not to mention, a look at complaints on Better Business Bureau shows that some users were unknowingly locked into an annual plan with no option to cancel. And it’s unclear from their website whether Mindbody Business offers a monthly plan at all.

Their prices seem unreasonably high for small business owners, especially when you can find apps that perform better for a fraction of the cost. PocketSuite offers access to premium features for $24.99 per month.

#3 Poor Customer Service

With all the complexity and issues surrounding the MindBody business app, you might find yourself reaching out to customer service… a lot. But, based on dozens of reviews, it won’t help much. 

Mindbody Business’s customer support is severely lacking. It might take you a few days to hear back from an agent, and the responses aren’t always useful. Users report being bounced around between multiple customer support agents that can’t provide a solution to their problems. 

Unfortunately, Mindbody had a major layoff in October 2022. This follows its 2020 layoff, where over 700 employees were let go. And it seems that customer support suffered. From the outside looking in, Mindbody’s customer support comes off as chaotic and underserved.

This is detrimental to business owners. When you or your clients have an issue, you should be able to get in contact with the booking platform immediately and leave with a reliable solution. That’s why PocketSuite offers a range of support calls where business owners are guaranteed to connect with our customer success team.

#4 Unhappy Clients

A lot of business owners choose Mindbody because it’s also a marketplace. This means clients come to you, which draws in businesses that are still building their own client base. But does the software fulfill its promise to small business owners? 

If you’re considering Mindbody Business, make sure your clients will be happy with the software. If the app breaks or runs into issues, your clients may walk away. A quick look at their app store reviews shows that clients have lots of frustrations with the app, i.e., your booking software may be driving away customers.

The point of business software is to improve your client’s experience. Don’t risk isolating your clients and staff by choosing the wrong one. 

What’s the Alternative to Mindbody Business?

The Mindbody Business app makes sense if you run a large spa or gym with a complex payroll. But small businesses and solopreneurs might get lost in all the complicated features and will have little to no support.

Some users report leaving Mindbody to use multiple apps for booking and payments. But there’s a simpler, all-in-one option: PocketSuite!  PocketSuite was made with small businesses in mind. 

PocketSuite has features that MindBody doesn’t, like a dedicated business line and a link tree to organize all your business links (all included in the price of your plan). And we pride ourselves on providing an 11-star customer support experience.

Not to mention, we’re mobile-first, so you and your clients have access to everything on the go. 

Are You Happy With Your Booking App?

Mindbody Business has long been the standard software for fitness, health, and wellness professionals. But it may be time to call it quits. With complicated features, unreasonable pricing, and subpar customer support, you’re bound to be left with frustrated clients. 

PocketSuite can fill in these gaps. We’re an all-in-one app to run your business and keep your clients happy!

How? 

Keep reading! We dive into the best ways to make money doing yoga. Whether you’re an aspiring yoga instructor or a seasoned pro, you’ll love these money-making tips.

Can You Make a Living Doing Yoga? 

Absolutely! According to Indeed, yoga instructors make about $30 per hour working at gyms and yoga studios. Independent yoga instructors can make six figures taking on their own clients. When you run your own yoga business, you set the rates and pocket all of the cash (minus the cost of studio space, travel, and equipment). 

How Do You Make Money as a Yoga Instructor?

#1 Offer In-person classes

Don’t be afraid to stick to the basics. You can earn good money teaching in-person yoga classes. In-person classes give you a chance to connect with clients and offer hands-on instruction.

Yoga instructors typically charge around $20 for an hour-long, in-person class. So, you can make at least $100 per hour for a session with 5+ students.  Schedule as many classes a day as you need to hit your income goals. Just be sure to leave buffer time for rest and self-care.

Here’s a tip: Look for yoga gigs at colleges and local businesses. Universities and corporate offices offer yoga classes and other wellness activities to help their students and employees relieve stress. If they’re not actively looking, take the initiative and offer your services. It could be the beginning of a profitable partnership.

#2 Offer Private Sessions

You can make more money as a yoga instructor by offering private sessions. Some clients are shy or busy, so prefer a private lesson on their own schedule. 

It’s okay (and highly recommended) to charge more for one on one yoga lessons. Some yoga instructors charge well-over over $150 for a private session. You might make less per hour than you would for a very large class. But it can be easier to build trust with your students (and get repeat bookings) with a 1:1 session. 

It’s a good idea to offer both group classes and 1:1 yoga sessions, especially if you’re just starting out. Over time, you might find that one fits your business better. 

#3 Host Online Classes 

You can attract more clients and earn more cash as a yoga instructor by taking your classes online. Clients want online fitness classes that can be done from the comfort of their homes. 

Virtual classes allow you to take on clients across the country. And you won’t lose out on a session if a client travels or moves. The best part: you don’t have to rent a studio or pay for gym space. It’s a low-cost way to get your yoga business off the ground. 

You can offer virtual classes in the PocketSuite app using video conferencing. All you have to do is connect your Zoom account. 

#4 Sell Products

When you’re neck deep in the yoga business, you’re bombarded with ads for yoga products every day. Why not flip the script and sell products yourself? 

You know what makes yoga gear worthwhile. And clients will trust your expertise. You can sell yoga blocks, mats, or protein bars to make more as a yoga instructor. 

You don’t have to go all in on one product. Try out a few different products and see what your clients gravitate towards. Recommend equipment that could help clients in the class. Or offer a bundle of products and classes as a package in the PocketSuite App.

You can even create your own products or merchandise to sell to your students. 

#5 Write Guest Posts

You can earn extra cash by writing guest posts for yoga, fitness, and wellness blogs. Bloggers need industry experts to write content for their sites. And you don’t have to be a pro writer to make a guest post.

Type “write for us + yoga”  in your search bar. You’ll find dozens of blogs ready to pay guest writers for their yoga expertise. Just make sure the time you spend on an article is worth the pay rate. 

Guest posting is a great way to market your business and establish yourself as an authority in the industry.  Most blogs give you an author’s bio with a link to your website or booking page.

If you’re up for the challenge, you can start your own blog where you write about yoga and wellness-related topics. With time, you’ll build an audience and make money from ads and affiliate marketing.

#6 Become a Yoga Influencer

As a yoga instructor, social media is the best place to market your business (for free!). Your social media page can be a portfolio, a booking site, and a consistent stream of income, if you become a fitness influencer. 

The good news is that you can create content on dozens of platforms. You can: 

• Create short videos with quick tips on TikTok  

• Film long-form workout videos for YouTube

• Post lifestyle photos and wellness quotes on Instagram 

• Or start a podcast about yoga

Once you build a following, you can earn money from ad revenue on your content and brand partnerships. Brands will pay you to promote their products to your audience, like smartwatches, yoga sets, or equipment. 

#7 Coach a Newbie Yoga Instructor

If you’re a seasoned yoga instructor, you can earn money teaching inspiring yoga instructors to grow their businesses. People want expert advice to take their small businesses to the next level. And you have it!

You can offer beginner consultations, teach them how to attract clients and budget their expenses or share your top tips for landing repeat bookings. As a coach, you’ll guide clients through every step of building a successful yoga business.

Also, if you’re tech-savvy, you can design websites, email campaigns, and marketing materials for yoga instructors and studios. 

#8 Create a Yoga Membership

Some yoga instructors create subscription-based memberships, where their clients get access to special content for a monthly price. You can give members access to:

• Live classes

• Yoga workshops and retreats

• Networking events

• Discounts and giveaways

• Special products

• Facebook groups

• Personalized routines and meal plans

Memberships are meant to build a sense of community. So, make sure to connect with your members and offer them value. If you treat your clients like they’re part of a V.I.P. club, they’re more likely to work with you again.

#9 Develop an Online Course 

Online courses are taking over the internet. And for good reason. They give you a chance to earn extra cash for your expertise. You can create courses on:

• Prenatal yoga techniques 

• Developing a yoga routine 

• Or building a high-earning yoga business 

The possibilities are endless. Just remember to provide value to your audience. A good online course can earn money for years to come.

The Bottom Line

If you want to earn more as a yoga instructor, it’s time to diversify your services. Most yoga instructors make money from online and in-person classes or by selling memberships, products, and courses to their clients.

At PocketSuite, we want to make running your business as relaxing as a yoga session. We have all the tools you need to onboard and manage clients. You can schedule appointments, send contracts and receive payments all in one app.

The wellness market is full of opportunities if you’re passionate about helping people improve their lives. But, it can be tough to stand out amongst your competition. That’s why we’re giving you expert tips to market your wellness coaching business and attract clients. Let’s go! 

What Is a Wellness Coach? 

Wellness is all about the actions we take toward a healthier lifestyle. As a wellness coach, you’ll guide clients through these actions. Wellness coaches are part counselors and part accountability partners. You give clients advice, tools, and motivation to crush their wellness goals. 

Some people use the terms fitness coach, health coach, and wellness coach interchangeably. But there are some differences. A wellness coach manages the holistic health and needs of their clients, including:

• Physical
• Mental
• Emotional
• Spiritual
• Social
• Environmental

For example, if a client wants to stop emotional eating, a wellness coach will recommend a diet plan, find the root cause of their eating habits, and give them activities to improve their relationship with food.

You’ll be with them every step of the way. 

Every client is different. But, in general, a wellness coach will:

• Assess a client’s well being 
• Set SMART goals
• Create a plan to reach those goals
• Support and motivate the client through the plan
• Create exercise routines, nutrition plans, etc.
• Suggest techniques to relax, manage stress and sleep better 
• Celebrate their achievements 

How Much Does a Wellness Coach Make?

As a wellness coach, your salary depends on where you work. Wellness coaches can work in gyms, clinics, hospitals, or corporate businesses, helping employees reduce stress. You can also open a private practice and take your own clients.

A corporate wellness coach typically makes about $60,000 per year. But you can earn up to six figures by starting your own wellness coaching business. And you’ll have way more freedom. 

Do You Need a Qualification to Be a Wellness Coach?

Before you get started as a wellness coach, it’s good to have professional experience or education in fitness, nutrition, healthcare, or counseling. Wellness coaches might start out as yoga teachers, therapists, or personal trainers.

You’re not required to get training or certification to become a wellness coach, but clients and employers will prefer it. Look for professional organizations, like the ISSA of AFPA, that offer health and wellness coach certifications. 

Most importantly, you need a passion for motivating others. Clients trust you with their biggest life challenges. You have to remain positive and uplifting when they struggle.

8 Wellness Coach Marketing Tips

There’s lots of competition in the wellness industry. But don’t worry. You just need some clever marketing techniques to stand out. Here’s how to market yourself as a wellness coach. 

#1 Choose Your Niche

Your business isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. Pick a wellness niche that you’re passionate about and lean into it. You might focus on helping people build nutritious diets. Or, you can teach clients to create a stress-free work/life balance. It’s up to you! 

When you niche down, it’s easier for clients to understand why they should hire you over a competitor. Having a niche is especially good if you plan to market your business on social media. (And you should!) Eventually,  you reach an audience that wants exactly what you offer.

#2 Level Up Your Content Marketing

To attract clients as a wellness coach, you must create content that makes them stop and listen. You can start a blog. Write about topics to show your fitness, mental health, or nutrition expertise. 

Blogging is a long con, but it pays off—more views on your posts = sign-ups for your wellness coaching session. And first impressions matter, so make sure you have a modern website to show off to potential clients. 

Also, remember to share your content with an email list. If you don’t have an email list, it’s time to build one. An email list is the best way to reach clients. You can deliver helpful and engaging content straight to their inbox. But don’t spam! (There are rules against this.)  

Offer incentives, like free templates and e-books, to get readers to opt-in to your email list. If your business is new, try low-cost email marketing platforms, like Mailchimp or Drip, to launch your first campaign.

#3 Referrals! Referrals! Referrals!

Referral marketing is gold for small businesses. As a wellness coach, you can build a community of partners that will send referrals your way. Wellness coaches can partner with fitness trainers, cosmetologists, therapists and career advisors.  These relationships should be mutually beneficial. You can build trust by sending them clients first. 

You can also start a referral program for your clients. People are more likely to hire you if a trusted friend or family member has referred you. Give clients incentives, like cash or discounts, for every new client they send. You get more business, and your client gets rewarded for their loyalty. Everybody wins! 

#4 Retargeting

If you’re stuck on marketing ideas, retarget people who have interacted with your business in the past. Your best clients might have passed on you the first time.  And it doesn’t hurt to try again. Send those follow-up emails, or even just give them a call. You’ll have a better chance of landing them because they recognize your name.

Use this time to reconnect and understand their needs. It’s okay if they don’t need your services right now. Just remind them that you’re there if they ever do.

#5 Run Promotions

Everyone loves a deal. You can attract clients by offering discounts and promotions on your services. (But don’t overdo it.) Try offering a free consultation before the first appointment. This way, you can get to know each other while the stakes are low. Potential clients might not understand what a wellness coach does. Use this time to show them how your services can solve their problems. 

#6 Diversify Your Services

With so much competition, you must offer more than the typical coaching session. Here’s a tip: conduct a group workshop. Wellness coaching can be a big step to take for clients. Group sessions allow clients to get to know your business in a less intimidating environment.

Also, be specific and creative when promoting your services. Some people advertise a “1-hour session” or “coaching session” on their booking sites. But these don’t stand out, clarify what you do, or show how it benefits your customers. Try “Wellness Consultation for Stress and Anxiety Relief.” Much better, right?

#7 Know Your Worth 

Research the wellness coaching market to find out what you should charge for your unique skills and experience. Don’t undervalue yourself. We know lowering your prices is tempting to attract more customers, but you must resist! Price yourself too low, and you could look like an amateur. Serious clients want an expert wellness coach, so they’re willing to pay for quality. 

#8 Hop on Social Media

Of course, social media marketing is a must. The good news: you have a ton of platforms to market your business (for free!) You can start a YouTube channel where you vlog about your own wellness routine and give viewers advice on creating their own. Or, give Tiktok a try. Don’t worry. You won’t have to learn any dances to build a following. Look at accounts in your niche and do what works for them. Just remember to be authentic. 

The Bottom Line

As a  wellness coach, you’ll help clients pursue a healthy and happy life. But first, you’ll have to break through the crowd. To market your wellness coaching business, find your niche and use proven marketing strategies to attract more clients, like referral marketing, retargeting, and social media.

PocketSuite is rooting for you! And we want to help. We’re the all-in-one app to run your business. From bookings to payments to contracts, we have all the tools you need to bring in more clients and make more money!

Yoga instructors use their class time to practice themselves, performing the asanas (body postures) on their yoga mats as a demonstration for students to follow.

There is a difference between a yoga instructor and a yoga teacher. A yoga instructor leads group classes through various levels and types of yoga practice. This includes demonstrating various poses and guiding students into position, working on flexibility, doing administrative work for the class, getting equipment ready for each class and learning what participants want from their yoga experience.

A yoga teacher trains students who want to become yoga teachers.

We’re going to focus on yoga instructors in this article.

As a yoga instructor, you’ll use your body to demonstrate the correct way to get into poses, the most helpful breathing patterns, and tips for achieving spiritual wellness that leads to greater health and serenity. You’ll also interact directly with students, gently adjusting their bodies to reach the correct pose, provide less experienced students with alternative poses and help all members of the class with their fitness goals. Planning classes that align with the abilities of students is an important part of the job.

Physical fitness and yoga knowledge are absolute requirements for this role. Classes typically last from an hour to 90 minutes, so everyone gets a workout. You’ve got to be in good shape to demonstrate good yoga technique if you plan to offer instruction at advanced levels. The more you’ve mastered, the more valuable you will be to your students.

Great communication skills are also essential. A yoga instructor must be able to explain clearly how to move the body and what this movement should feel like.

Motivational skill is likewise important. Yoga can be physically and mentally challenging, so you must be able to push, encourage and praise your students as they reach their goals.

Read on to discover how you can become a yoga instructor, helping students achieve inner peace and enjoy greater health as a result of your teachings.

In this article you’ll learn:

• How much money you can make as a yoga instructor
• The required training and certifications
• Professional groups to join
• Employment opportunities for yoga instructors
• Finding clients
• Plus helpful tips

How much money can you make?

The average annual wage for fitness trainers and instructors, including yoga teachers, was $40,390, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment of yoga instructors is projected to grow 13 percent through 2028, the bureau reports. That’s much faster than the national average for all occupations. If you offer your own private classes, operating as an independent business owner, over time you stand to make much more money than the national average. This is because you get to decide how much you want to work, how much you will charge for classes and whether you want to specialize in certain practices such as hot yoga, for which you can charge more.

Training and Certification

There are no state or national licensing requirements for yoga instructors. However, most gyms and yoga studios require that you have a certification to teach there.  For some gyms and studios, a certification may be the only credential you’ll need.  Some facilities require that you be registered with the Yoga Alliance or have graduated from Yoga Alliance-approved training.

Becoming a yoga instructor definitely requires experience, which you can receive through a yoga teacher training program. Instructors receive credentials based on how many hours of teaching experience they have, and whether they’ve learned a specialty, like hot yoga or yoga for children.

Some employers want broadly skilled fitness instructors who can teach yoga as well as cycling, Pilates or other classes, and may prefer to hire a certified fitness instructor with yoga experience. Because of this employment trend, you may want to diversify your skill set. PocketSuite offers deep resources in other exercise disciplines for you to learn about.

Here’s an extensive listing of yoga training schools you can review to find an education program best suited to your needs.

What you’ll learn in training:

• A deeper understanding of poses and how they work together to produce the total yoga experience.
• Yoga anatomy, alignment and key modifications, including hands-on adjustments.
• Develop your leadership abilities to guide a class with confidence.
• Broaden your understanding of yoga beyond physical poses by studying pranayama (breath control), meditation, chakras (energy centers in the body), and energy anatomy (where these chakras can be found).
• Yoga philosophy and the history of yoga, including the science at the heart of these powerful poses and mental disciplines.
• Living your best life through the benefits of yoga, and how to share those benefits with students.
• How to teach yoga. There is a unique process to yoga instruction, which includes speaking deliberately and from the heart to achieve clarity and understanding.
• Making course-corrections. In sailing a boat, it is often necessary to change direction so your navigation takes you to where you want to be. Similarly, being open in the mind to accept the need for change must be followed by the ability, the will, to change.

Professional Groups to Join

The Yoga Alliance is the premiere organization devoted to yoga instructors. Members agree to abide by a code of ethical conduct and observe best practices in the teaching of yoga. Joining the alliance demonstrates dedication to your career and enhances your credibility among new students looking to enroll in a class. The initial registration cost is $115, including the application fee. After that, annual dues are $65.

Employment

Gyms, public recreation centers, the YMCA – all may offer yoga classes (or would like to) in your area.

You’ll need photocopies of your résumé, training certifications and perhaps a photo of yourself demonstrating a yoga pose. This personalizes your application package.

If you mail these materials, always follow up with a phone call to keep your name on their minds.

Be sure to check online resources such as ZipRecruiter and Indeed.com, where a simple Internet search can often turn up dozens of job openings.

Finding Clients

Planning to offer private yoga classes? Business cards and a basic website should be the core of your marketing toolkit as a yoga instructor. The website need not be fancy or expensive, just attractively designed, with photos of your classes in session (get permission from any students who are visibly recognizable). The website must also include your business location and contact information at the top of every page.

In addition to your business website, the next thing to do is create an Instagram account to showcase your yoga practice. Instagram is the #1 online venue for creative professionals to promote themselves. It’s a free marketing tool that’s always working on your behalf.

Next, set up a Facebook page for your yoga practice so that people searching for yoga instruction can find you. This, too, is a free service that can benefit your business by putting you front-and-center of potentially thousands of students.

Other strategies for attracting new business:

• Create a referral program with discounts for returning yoga students who bring new clients to you.
• Ask students to review your classes online. According to a recent survey, 90% of people say their buying decisions are influenced by positive online reviews.

Good to know:

7 tips to Help New Yoga Teachers.

Be authentic

Always be your true self, the person who practices yoga because it makes you feel alive and brightens the surrounding world. Plus, students will quickly recognize instructors who “keep it real” and motivate with their passion for yoga.

Plan classes thoughtfully

Each class should be thought out by identifying the goals for the session, while building in time for breathing and meditation, in addition to work on poses. Each class should build on the previous session so there is a forward momentum to your instruction. Be sure you have everything you need before going to class – yoga mat, music and a device for playing the music, chimes, a soft-toned bell – everything you would require.

Be on time

Always get to class before your students to set up and be prepared to start on time. This is a powerful demonstration that you are in control of your own life.

Play music during class

You can use a music streaming service or build a playlist of soothing music on your smartphone. Invest in a decent, portable Bluetooth speaker so you can play your music at a volume the class can hear. The phone’s built-in speaker is usually terrible for listening to music.

Don’t be too serious

Life is about pursuing happiness and enjoying the sensation of being alive. Be able to laugh at yourself if you make a mistake in class – even if you fall out of a pose onto your mat. It is nothing more than a reminder of our common humanity. Students will love you for it.

Dress to impress

Invest in your yoga wardrobe by selecting clothes that reflect your personal style yet are also functional and durable. Yes, students come to class to learn yoga, but they also pick up nonverbal cues such as how instructors present themselves. Be sure to present the image you want to project.

Build a rapport with students

Learn everyone’s name. Try to learn what you can about their lives outside of yoga class. People respond favorably to people who show a genuine interest in them. This can pay off with exponential benefits. Students see that you care and are interested. They tell others about their positive experience in yoga class. Their friends become intrigued and sign up for one of your classes. Before you know it, you’ve maxed out on the number of students you can teach. Not a bad problem to have.

If you enjoyed this article, check out some more great PocketSuite.io content that can help you grow your career as a yoga instructor. Here’s a great place to start.PocketSuite has thousands of business owners who all started where you are right now. Our community is always happy to help you ramp up, grow your client base, and achieve your income goals, both within the PocketSuite app and as part of our exclusive Facebook Community Group. PocketSuite’s vision is for any professional to be able to work for themselves and make a great living. It starts here. It starts with you. It starts today. Let’s get started, download PocketSuite now! Feel free to reach out with any questions (we’d love to hear from you)! Text us @ (415) 841-2300.

The purpose of massage therapy varies with each patient, but tends to focus on relieving pain, helping rehabilitate injuries, reducing stress, increasing relaxation, and improving the general wellness of your clients.

You can work in a spa, health clinic, doctors’ office, hotel, and gyms and fitness centers. When you’re self-employed and just starting out, you might want to offer on-call mobile service where you travel to the client’s home or place of business. The start-up costs of running a mobile massage therapy service are virtually nonexistent – just the cost of your massage table and other equipment, plus a dependable vehicle to get you where you’re going.

Massage therapists typically complete a postsecondary education program of 500 or more hours of study and experience, although standards and requirements vary by state. Most states regulate massage therapy and require these therapists to have a certification that provides proof of proper training. Only a few states mandate a formal license. You’ll still want to get training and certification to establish yourself as a credentialed professional. That will make your services more attractive to new clients when they are evaluating which massage therapist to work with.

Most of all, you’ll earn a good living while enjoying the professional satisfaction of helping people feel better as you assist in improving their quality of life.

Read on to find out how you can become a massage therapist.

In this article you’ll learn:

• How much money you can make as a massage therapist
• The required training and certifications
• Professional groups to join
• Employment opportunities for massage therapists
• Finding clients
• Plus helpful tips

How much money can you make?

Massage therapists on average earn $42,820 per year, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This works out to about $20.60 per hour.

The employment outlook for massage therapists is projected to grow 22 percent through 2028, the bureau reports. This will be much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand will likely increase as more healthcare providers understand the benefits of massage and these services become part of treatment plans.

Opening your own massage spa can significantly boost your income as a result of self-employment. Still, many massage therapists start out working for a spa or private health facility before jumping into the world of an entrepreneur and all the attendant expenses that come with running your own business.

Training and Certification

You do not currently need a license to be a massage therapist in Wyoming, Minnesota, or Kansas. That can obviously change any time as state legislatures devote a portion of every year to creating new laws and regulations. For up-to-date state licensing requirements, check-out this article.

Even in a state where you do not need a license, you should become trained and certified, anyway. Why? Simple psychology. Someone who can benefit from massage therapy will almost always choose a trained and certified professional if given the option. Wouldn’t you?

According to the ABMP (Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals) bi-annual census of all state-approved massage programs for 2020, there are 919 state approved massage programs in the United States. You should have no trouble finding a program suitable for your needs.

A massage therapist typically begins work after completing a postsecondary non-degree program of around 500 Hours. Practical and technical aspects of the practice are introduced during this training. Most massage therapy education incorporates theoretical knowledge with practical experience in either classroom or face-to-face instruction as well as online studies. Client engagement and business principles are also taught.

You can also choose to specialize in different therapeutic techniques. These include Swedish massage, biodynamic massage and sports massage. Broadly speaking, your training will involve learning how to massage specific muscles in different areas of the body to produce maximum benefits. Anatomy and physiology are also topics covered in coursework.

States that regulate massage therapy will require a passing score on the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Exam. Often, you’ll need to earn continuing education credits to maintain and renew your massage therapy license or certificate.

Here’s an extensive list of massage therapist schools and training programs.

Professional Groups to Join

Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals is a national membership association that offers much more than great liability insurance to make it simpler for massage and bodywork practitioners and students to succeed.  Membership starts at $199 per year. ABMP has distinguished itself for two main reasons:

• ABMP’s comprehensive program of liability and business property insurance is considered the standard for the profession. Specifically created to address the needs of massage therapists and bodyworkers, the policy included with membership offers “occurrence form” coverage; professional, general, and product liability coverage with the highest limits available; no additional fee for Additional Insured Endorsements; and no “shared member” charges, like some other associations. In sum, it’s quality insurance coverage.
• ABMP members get the most responsive, knowledgeable service and a comprehensive package of member benefits that incorporates free continuing education hours, member discounts, a free business website, Massage and Bodywork magazine, legislative advocacy and more.

Check-out the ABMP PocketSuite Edition here.

The American Massage Therapy Association is the largest nonprofit professional organization serving massage therapists, students and massage schools. The association is directed by volunteer leadership and fosters ongoing, direct member involvement through 51 chapters. AMTA advances the profession through ethics and standards, the promotion of fair and consistent licensing of massage therapists, and public education on the benefits of therapeutic massage. A professional membership is $235 per year.

National Association of Complementary and Alternative Medicines is an organization that serves health, wellness, and beauty professionals by giving support, marketing materials, state licensing and insurance requirements, and access to liability insurance for massage therapists.

Employment

You’ll find work as a massage therapist in health and beauty spas, physicians’ offices, public and private gyms and fitness centers, as well as hospitals and medical clinics.

Most employers will ask for proof of licensure, if required in your state, and academic/training credentials and certifications, so you should make photocopies to hand out with your résumé. Call the business where you are interested in working and ask if it will be okay for you to drop off your materials in person. If they prefer that you mail your information, always follow up with a phone call within a week.

Use the networking power of your professional memberships to find jobs.

Check online sites such as Indeed.com and Ziprecruiter, which can yield job openings, but keep in mind that laws regulating massage therapy will vary from state-to-state. If you move to another state, you’ll have to meet their requirements to practice. With some online services, you can set up a notification to receive a daily email with job openings in the areas you’ve selected.

Finding Clients

Business cards and a basic website should be the core of your marketing toolkit as a massage therapist. The website need not be fancy or expensive, just attractively designed, with photos of your studio or salon (get permission from any customers who are visibly recognizable). The website must also include your business location and contact information at the top of every page.

In addition to your business website, the next thing to do is create an Instagram account to showcase your massage therapy practice. Instagram is the #1 online venue for creative professionals to promote themselves. It’s a free marketing tool that’s always working on your behalf.

Next, set up a Facebook page for your massage therapy practice so that people searching for this therapy can find you. This, too, is a free service that can benefit your business by putting you front-and-center of potentially thousands of customers.

Other strategies for attracting new business:

• Create a referral program with discounts for returning customers who bring new clients to you.
• Ask customers to review your services online. According to a recent survey, 90% of people say their buying decisions are influenced by positive online reviews.

Good to know:

Beyond the fundamentals of finding clients, here are additional tips you can use to market your massage therapy practice at little expense to you.

Mail some postcards

Target neighborhoods close to your location with an introductory postcard offering a discount for new customers. Learn more about USPS bulk mailing tools and services here.

Work your contact list via email

Stay in touch with your clients, especially those you haven’t seen in a while. Consider offering a “we miss you” special as an incentive to get return business.

Host an Open House

Advertise an afternoon of free Q&A and a tour of your facility. Create a visually appealing flyer and post it on community bulletin boards, at libraries, medical offices, fitness centers and apartment complexes.  List the event on all your online sites as well.  Complimentary bottled water and cookies or some other inexpensive treat create an inviting atmosphere. You could even offer free massage sessions as door prizes.

Create a loyal customer rewards program

Offer a discount or free massage after a customer completes a certain number of sessions. When customers have a goal to get a freebie, they tend to stick around.

Offer package deals

You can set up an agreement with a beauty spa or salon to offer a special price on a suite of services. The customer buys the package and you get the money up-front.

Take appointments online

Use the PocketSuite app to schedule your clients, create invoices and get paid. It’s easy.

Write a regular blog

Post articles about the health benefits of your massage therapy, as well as helpful advice on exercise, diet and anything else related to your business that customers would find useful. This builds up your expertise and over time makes you a go-to authority on massage therapy. That’s good for business.

Offer mobile services

You and your massage table travel to the customer. It’s so easy for clients to say “yes” when they don’t have to do anything or go anywhere to get a therapeutic massage.

If you enjoyed this article, check out some more great PocketSuite.io content that can help you grow your career as a massage therapist. Here’s a great place to start.PocketSuite has thousands of business owners who all started where you are right now. Our community is always happy to help you ramp up, grow your client base, and achieve your income goals, both within the PocketSuite app and as part of our exclusive Facebook Community Group. PocketSuite’s vision is for any professional to be able to work for themselves and make a great living. It starts here. It starts with you. It starts today. Let’s get started, download PocketSuite now! Feel free to reach out with any questions (we’d love to hear from you)! Text us @ (415) 841-2300.

Yoga is a big part of the health and wellness industry. 36 million Americans practice yoga and spend $16 billion on yoga classes, clothing, equipment, and accessories each year. The number of Americans doing yoga grew by 50% between 2012 and 2016 alone! On this episode of Professional-on-the-Go, we explore:

• What makes yoga so popular and why the recent boom in popularity?
• How much do Yoga Instructors make?
• What is the secret to making more as a Yoga instructor?
• What changes do people have to make when they want to take yoga instruction from a hobby to a career?
• What are the licensing and certification requirements for yoga instructors?
• How yoga professionals can ensure they have the training needed to protect their clients from injury
• Who is Yoga Alliance and what is their role within the yoga industry?
• What is the best advice for someone who is looking to grow their yoga practice and income?

Here to help us learn more about the yoga industry is Kerry Maiorca, the founder of Bloom Yoga Studio in Chicago. A yoga teacher for more than 20 years, Kerry is passionate about making yoga unintimidating and accessible for each unique student, and she also provides an online mentorship program for yoga teachers. Her writing has been featured on The Huffington Post, Elephant Journal, and Mindbodygreen, among others, and she explores the intersection of yoga and daily life on her Thinking Yogi blog.

For free continuing ed offerings for yoga teachers and great discounts, check out https://www.yogaalliance.org/ where there are lots of helpful resources for making yoga instruction into a viable business.

As a physical therapist, your job is to diagnose and treat patients who have physical conditions that limit their ability to move, function in the world and perform everyday activities. It’s a job for heroes. You are literally empowering other people to transcend whatever physical barrier stands between them and a happy life, whether that means overcoming the debilitating effects of a car accident, managing arthritis or suffering chronic pain.

A physical therapist helps patients avoid costly surgeries that may or may not satisfactorily resolve their condition. Therapists by helping patients overcome chronic pain enable them to live a life without addictive prescription drugs.

You’ll need exceptional interpersonal skills and a caring manner to motivate patients to follow their plan of treatment. These are people you will get to know personally, as physical therapists typically spend more time with their patients than all other healthcare practitioners.

You can also earn a good living while enjoying the tremendous professional satisfaction that comes from improving people’s lives.

Read on to learn more about a physical therapist’s work and salary, plus helpful information about training and certification requirements, licensing and where and how to find clients.

 In this article you’ll learn:

• How much money you can make as a physical therapist
• The required training and certifications
• Professional groups to join
• Employment opportunities for physical therapists
• Finding clients
• Plus helpful tips

How much money can you make?

The median annual wage for physical therapists was $89,440 per year, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10 percent are earning more than $124,740 annually, the bureau reports. Employment prospects look to remain solid for physical therapists, with demand expected to grow 22 percent through 2028. That’s much faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for physical therapy is expected to come mainly from aging baby boomers, who are staying active later in life, but are also susceptible to health conditions such as strokes, which may require physical therapy. Physical therapists will likewise be needed to treat people with mobility issues stemming from chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.

Training and Certification

You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in science or a medical field to get started on the path to becoming a physical therapist. This will be followed by two years in a graduate program studying physical therapy. You may find that a doctoral degree is also required where you live.

A physical therapy license is required in all 50 states in America, although specific rules and regulations vary depending on where you live. You’ll want to check the requirements for your state using this handy reference guide. Then you’ll be prepared to evaluate which training and certification program will be best-suited to meet your goal of getting that state license.

After completing your training and earning a license, most states will require you to complete a residency program in a clinical setting lasting at least a year. During this time you’ll work with patients under the supervision of physicians and other licensed physical therapists.

Most states have set these standard requirements for licensure:

Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which is administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT). This is a computerized, multiple-choice exam. You may take the exam three times in a 12-month period if you don’t pass on the first try. The Practice Exam and Assessment Tool (PEAT), also developed by the FSBPT, allows applicants to practice taking a test that resembles the NPTE.

Other licensing requirements may include a law exam and a criminal background check. Most states also require a certain number of continuing education credits before you can renew a license to practice physical therapy. This ensures practitioners stay current in the field.

Here’s a deep and diverse list of schools and training programs for physical therapists.

An overview of what you’ll learn during your training:

• How to consult with patients to learn about their physical condition and symptoms
• How to perform tests that identify physical issues and their severity
• Correctly diagnosing movement problems and developing a treatment plan
• Teaching patients techniques for therapeutic exercise and correct use of any equipment
• Stimulating and massaging affected muscle groups to promote healing
• Helping patients learn to move about with wheelchairs or walkers
• How to maintain and protect patient records, while keeping track of therapy progress
• Advising patients and families about in-home treatment options and exercises to work on when the patient is not in a therapy setting.

Professional Groups to Join

Joining a professional association demonstrates commitment to your career. It also enhances your credibility with customers. In addition to those benefits, joining a professional group gives you networking access to other experts in your field. You can trade tips and ideas, and learn about job openings. Most professional groups also offer continuing education opportunities, meetings and conferences and access to affordable insurance plans.

Here are three of the top organizations for professional physical therapists:

American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is the national clinical strength organization representing more than 9,000 practitioners who are masters in physical medication and recovery (PM&R). These professionals treat a wide assortment of ailments affecting the cerebrum, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, tendons, muscles, and ligaments.

The American Academy of Physical Therapy is a non-profit organization whose strategic goal is to assist poor and disadvantaged African-Americans and other minorities by:

• Promoting new and innovative programs in health delivery and disease prevention
• Encouraging minority students to pursue careers in allied health professions
• Performing clinical research related to health conditions found within minority communities.

American Physical Therapy Association is a professional organization representing 100,000 physical therapists, physical specialist aides (PTAs), and students. APTA’s mission is to improve the wellbeing of people by advancing the physical therapist practice through continuing education, and by expanding awareness of physical therapy’s role in the country’s medical services.

Employment

Because physical therapists typically work in private medical offices and clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes, these are the places you should investigate first. Most employers will ask for proof of licensure and academic/training credentials and certifications, so you should make photocopies to hand out with your résumé. Call the business where you are interested in working and ask if it will be okay for you to drop off your materials in person. If they prefer that you mail your information, always follow up with a phone call within a week.

Use the networking power of your professional memberships to find jobs.

Don’t overlook online sites such as Indeed.com and Ziprecruiter, which can yield job openings, but keep in mind that laws regulating physical therapy will vary from state-to-state. If you move to another state, you’ll have to meet their requirements to practice.

Finding Clients

If you’re going into private practice, business cards and a basic website should be the core of your marketing toolkit as a physical therapist. The website need not be fancy or expensive, just attractively designed, with photos of your studio (get permission from any clients who are visibly recognizable). The website must also include your business location and contact information at the top of every page.

In addition to your business website, the next thing to do is create an Instagram account to showcase your physical therapy practice. Instagram is the #1 online venue for creative professionals to promote themselves. It’s a free marketing tool that’s always working on your behalf.

Next, set up a Facebook page for your physical therapy practice so that people searching for this therapy can find you. This, too, is a free service that can benefit your business by putting you front-and-center of potentially thousands of customers.

Other strategies for attracting new business:

• Create a referral program with discounts for loyal customers who send new clients to you.
• Ask customers to review your physical therapy services online. According to a recent survey, 90% of people say their buying decisions are influenced by positive online reviews.

Good to know:

5 tips for physical therapists on encouraging and motivating your patients.

Encourage patients to wear an activity tracker
Whether a smart watch or a basic pedometer, an activity tracker provides a tangible measurement of effort leading to progress. Plus, some patients may be more motivated to do their exercises if they have a gadget that shows their results.

Don’t let chronic pain control your life
One of the key goals of physical therapy is to eliminate or at least reduce and manage chronic pain. Encourage your patients to tell you if they experience unusual discomfort.

Practice strength training
Even patients in their 60s and 70s can benefit from weight lifting that’s appropriate to their abilities. Before they set out to pump iron, develop a plan with them to set and meet goals.

Always reinforce the importance of home exercise
Patients are not with you in the clinic 24 hours a day. That doesn’t mean they should be working on their therapy outside the clinical setting. Explain the importance of homework and how following the exercises outside of the clinic can speed recovery and lead to a healthier life.

Be patient with your patients
You’ll be dealing with individuals facing significant mobility issues and physical limitations. Some may be in chronic pain as a result of an accident. Suffering in pain is a powerful temptation for a patient to quit or give up. Don’t let them. Be patient. Be firm. Explain the benefits of what the two of you are doing together to improve your patient’s life.

If you enjoyed this article, check out some more great PocketSuite.io content that can help you grow your career as a physical therapist. Here’s a great place to start.PocketSuite has thousands of business owners who all started where you are right now. Our community is always happy to help you ramp up, grow your client base, and achieve your income goals, both within the PocketSuite app and as part of our exclusive Facebook Community Group. PocketSuite’s vision is for any professional to be able to work for themselves and make a great living. It starts here. It starts with you. It starts today. Let’s get started, download PocketSuite now! Feel free to reach out with any questions (we’d love to hear from you)! Text us @ (415) 841-2300.

Phlebotomists are trained in the use of specialized equipment and instruments so they can conduct their work. After drawing a sample of the patient’s blood, the phlebotomist labels the tube containing the sample for clear and reliable identification. It is then delivered to the laboratory for testing.

A patient’s blood work is one of the most important diagnostic tools in medicine, which makes the role of the phlebotomist a critical part of the healthcare system. From a blood sample physicians can evaluate a patient’s electrolyte status, check hemoglobin levels, identify or eliminate the presence of certain diseases, test drug levels and much more.

In addition to the necessary medical skills required for phlebotomy, you’ll need a steady hand and a sturdy constitution (some people are afraid of the sight of blood; others are terrified by needles). You’ll also need to follow proper safety and sanitary procedures and be in generally good health, as the work often involves being around people who are sick.

Among the rewards of a career in phlebotomy is the knowledge that your work is potentially life-saving. If a doctor orders a blood test, it’s for a very good reason.

Phlebotomists are the front line in helping physicians gain the information they need to make critical healthcare decisions about a patient’s treatment. A blood sample is absolutely necessary to identify underlying health concerns and conditions that a physical exam alone cannot reveal.

Blood testing is routinely used to screen for a huge range of diseases and conditions, including:

• Cholesterol levels
• Blood glucose levels
• Anemia
• Infections
• Leukemia (blood cancer)
• Sickle cell anemia
• HIV and STDs
• Hepatitis
• Allergies
• Genetic markers that may predict risk of specific diseases and conditions
• Prostate cancer
• Blood clotting disorders
• Thyroid disorder
• Liver function

You can see the role of phlebotomist is vitally important to a patient’s successful medical outcome. Read on to discover how you can become a part of the medical profession with a rewarding career as a phlebotomist.

In this article you’ll learn:

• How much money you can make as a phlebotomist
• The required training and certifications
• Professional groups to join
• Employment opportunities for phlebotomists
• Plus helpful tips

How much money can you make?

Phlebotomists make an average of $34,480 per year, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10 percent, who typically have several years of experience, average closer to $50,000 annually.

Employment of phlebotomists is projected to grow 23 percent through 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, blood donor centers, and other locations will need trained phlebotomists to perform blood work.

Training and Certification

Like all other medical professions, a license is required to perform phlebotomy. All states require a minimum of a high school diploma or GED in addition to phlebotomy training and licensure.

Phlebotomists with limited experience are only permitted to collect blood through skin punctures. If the individual has completed training to achieve Certified Phlebotomy Technician I, then she is allowed to perform venipuncture and skin puncture blood collection. The next level is certified Phlebotomy Technician II. A phlebotomist with this credential may perform skin and arterial punctures and venipunctures to draw and collect blood samples.

Training programs in phlebotomy do not automatically lead to certification.  Students after their training must then pass an exam conducted by a certifying agency to obtain certification.

Some training programs are affiliated with certifying agencies or authorized by the state where they are located.

For efficiency and to ensure you get the best value from your training, look for an accredited or certified program. This ensures you will meet the requirements of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) upon completion of your training. Phlebotomy programs are accredited by several different agencies, including the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) and the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).

Here’s an extensive listing of phlebotomist training and certification programs for you to review and decide which might be best for your needs, depending on the state where you live.

What you’ll experience during training:

• Minimum of 40 Hours Lecture/lab
• Minimum of 100 Successful Venipunctures (blood draws involving veins) in class or at a clinical site
• Minimum of 10 Skin Punctures (Capillaries)

You’ll also study:

• Phlebotomy lab skills, such as venipuncture, urinalysis, and centrifuging and processing
• Diseases of the human body
• CPR and first aid
• Anatomy and physiology
• Assembly of the tools and equipment necessary for the procedure. This includes blood collection devices, needles, alcohol, gauze and bandages, and correct use of a tourniquet.
• The vital importance of verifying the identity of the patient and confirming medical records are correct.
• How to help the patient feel comfortable to foster a feeling of trust.
• How to bandage the punctured area, then label, record and deliver the collected sample to the lab.

Because of the prevalence of infectious diseases and other biohazards, handling blood in a medical setting is serious business and can be dangerous – even deadly – if performed incorrectly. This is why proper training is vital and phlebotomy licensing is mandatory.

Professional Groups to Join

Joining a professional group is proof of your commitment to your career. Membership also comes with many benefits, including access to continuing education, networking with other phlebotomists (who may know of job openings) and the satisfaction of belonging to an organization dedicated to your professional interests and goals.

The American Phlebotomy Association is the premiere organization for professionals in this medical field, offering networking opportunities, continuing education, advocacy for the profession and more. Annual membership is currently $105.

This listing of professional associations for phlebotomists also covers many organizations that can be valuable in advancing your career.

Employment

Competition is ferocious in the field of phlebotomy. Pursue anything you can do to stand out from your peers and make yourself a more attractive candidate. Some phlebotomists also train to be a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CAN, which broadens their employment prospects. Because nurses and CNAs are almost always legally allowed to draw blood due to their training, you’ll be competing with them for open positions in addition to licensed phlebotomists.

Contact hospitals, larger private medical practices, public health clinics and any medical laboratories in your area. Blood donor services, mobile blood collection services and the Red Cross are additional potential sources of employment.

You’ll need copies of your résumé, training certifications and phlebotomy license, as well as good references, preferably from professionals working in the medical field.

While you should not overlook online job-hunting sites such as Indeed and ZipRecruiter, keep in mind that regulations for phlebotomists vary from state to state and licenses are generally not transferable. Still, moving to another state remains a good way to advance your career in the field of phlebotomy, as the pay tends to be better in major metropolitan areas and especially the larger hospitals.

Good to know

While obviously no substitute for the training you must complete to become licensed, the video below will provide a broad overview of a phlebotomist’s work and what you can expect in the job on a daily basis:

Best places to draw blood in the human body, according to licensed phlebotomists:

• Antecubital veins: These are located in the bend of the arm at the elbow. Most phlebotomists prefer the medial cubital or cephalic veins in this area for their accessibility and ease in drawing a blood sample.
• Hand veins: Patients often do not like this area because it is sensitive. However, if you cannot find an antecubital vein, hand veins are always an option.
• Forearm and wrist veins: These veins can be tricky for a blood draw because they run deep in the skin. However, many patients who have great cardiovascular fitness have readily accessible forearm and wrist veins.

If you enjoyed this article, check out some more great PocketSuite.io content that can help you grow your career as a phlebotomist. Here’s a great place to start.PocketSuite has thousands of business owners who all started where you are right now. Our community is always happy to help you ramp up, grow your client base, and achieve your income goals, both within the PocketSuite app and as part of our exclusive Facebook Community Group. PocketSuite’s vision is for any professional to be able to work for themselves and make a great living. It starts here. It starts with you. It starts today. Let’s get started, download PocketSuite now! Feel free to reach out with any questions (we’d love to hear from you)! Text us @ (415) 841-2300.

In this article, you will learn how I saved countless hours and now run my entire Yoga practice from my phone, using just one app. (Seriously!)
Health and wellness is a constantly growing industry and there is no shortage of Yoga instructors. Having amazing Yoga classes does not mean that you were born with a special ability that allows you to focus on yoga and business at the same time.

In most cases, successful yoga instructors who are running full classes with happy students do so by setting up tools and processes to help automate the back-end office work and admin stuff that typically takes up a lot of their time. That’s their hidden secret and that’s what I’ll be revealing to you in this article.

Your best bet is to go with an app that provides you with all the tools you need to run your Yoga classes smoothly – all in one place. You may be able to find apps that address each of these needs individually. Your problem here will be getting used to all of these different apps and making sure they are fully compatible with each other.

Most of the time they will not be! Nor will you have the time to figure out the nuances – you have classes to teach and clients to catch up with!
What is the alternative? PocketSuite.

PocketSuite is the all-inclusive app that allows Yoga teachers to schedule their classes, collect deposits, and manage their Yoga instructors, all in the same platform. You no longer have to worry about learning six different software tools in order to run your Yoga classes smoothly. Moreover, you no longer have to take your clients through a convoluted onboarding process (since you’re stitching together different features of several different apps).
Why not have all of that functionality under one roof – with PocketSuite you will be able to market to prospective students and your current students, organize classes, and collect deposits from your students in a streamlined way.

Many yoga instructors have unfortunately discovered just how much money is lost with a complicated sales process. This is especially true of those instructors who are trying to expand a small practice. No matter how great a teacher you may be, prospects just don’t want to deal with website errors, crude paper and pencil questionnaires, scheduling mistakes, etc. They want to sign up, pay your fee, and receive the best yoga training possible!

What’s more, the modern client does not have to put up with a bad onboarding or scheduling process anymore. The Internet gives the average person more choices than ever. If your process is less-than-perfect, all it takes is one mouse click to find another Yoga studio, book time at a ClassPass gym, or download a self guided workout app with a signup process that is easier than yours.

Unfortunately, clients are less loyal than ever. They will do this with no thought of how it may affect your business, especially if you have not created a real connection or relationship with them.

How PocketSuite Works for Yoga Instructors
PocketSuite is made for Yoga instructors with no time on their hands. As a Yoga instructor, this probably describes you… after all, you are doing much more than just classes.

You have to keep up with the latest in terms of new breathwork techniques, new poses, and sequences for your classes. You need to know the latest in hot yoga, trapeze yoga, goat yoga, laughter yoga, beer yoga, postnatal yoga, etc. You must constantly practice in order to maintain your mastery.

Basically, you do not have time to deal with all of the back-office and admin stuff.

First, the app works in your favor by automating the marketing process. It does this by integrating with your social media, scheduling recurring classes, and sending personalized text messages. With PocketSuite focused on following up and building the future of your business, you can focus on doing what you do best – changing people’s lives through centeredness, stretching, and de-stressing.

Your marketing goes to another level when you start using PocketSuite. You can not only create groups of clients with similar backgrounds, you can market to those groups in a streamlined way. No more sifting through clients trying to remember if this one or that one wanted a group class or an extra phone call. PocketSuite does all of this for you, syncing the message that you want to put out with the audience that you want to reach.

Secondly, PocketSuite provides you with more time to focus on your core competency, namely, Yoga! The less time that you have to spend on things like appointment reminders, collecting payments, and rescheduling appointments, the more time you have to focus on creating an amazing experience for your students and changing their lives for the better. With all of the needs of the average Yoga instructor that’s running their own business taken into account – PocketSuite is the one stop solution.

I’ve heard from many Yoga instructors that they make the most money from private appointments. This is also one of the most satisfying ways to teach, because you can relay more information in a one-on-one session than you can in a group setting. However, getting these kinds of clients can be difficult if you’re not a natural salesperson. PocketSuite saves you from having to go back to school for marketing and sales – it does all of this by integrating directly with Google Ads.

Instead of having to sell packages after class, the app does it for you online. People who are looking for one on one classes can simply go to the app and sign up rather than having to ask or go through an awkward sales pitch from you. The result is better classes with no upselling pressure.

Because you can automatically organize your student’s info in the app, you can also easily put together group classes of people with similar skill levels or interests. Imagine not having to go through all of your customer lists in order to find these people. They will actually find you if your onboarding process is solid.

You can also get this done with the PocketSuite app, because your clients will complete your forms and sign up for your classes from the comfort of their home computer or phone.

You will be able to complete the entire sales process thru PocketSuite as well. This means signing students up for classes, creating ongoing connections and keeping private notes on each client for the upsell later.

The app will help you target who to give certain discounts to based on how often they book classes and/or appointments with you. It will also help you determine who are the most likely candidates for gift certificates and other online products.

Your Team
It is also important as a Yoga instructor to have the best set of health and wellness professionals around you. You may have a good amount of teachers under your umbrella or you may work with a small team to ensure the best experience for your clients. Either way, you need to showcase a high level of organization to keep your team and students happy. PocketSuite allows you to synchronize the schedules of your teams with the schedules of your clients. This is absolutely essential if you’re trying to expand your Yoga business through other teachers.

PocketSuite also allows you to coordinate all of your team member’s calendars. You have the ability to access client information remotely so that you can always seem like the “third-eye” regardless of where you are. You can turn your team into salespeople, tracking how well they are able to upsell Yoga clothes or Yoga mats to your customers, and paying them a commission on all sales. PocketSuite also allows you to reward them with certificates and other forms of acknowledgment if they positively affect your revenues.

No matter how you plan to expand your Yoga instructor business, PocketSuite is a tool that you can use to make it happen efficiently. Instead of hiring a bunch of admin assistants, paying someone to market your business online, or outsourcing your accounting to an expensive firm, you now have all of that at your fingertips with PocketSuite. This is the only way to expand in the digital era. Your competition is keeping things streamlined and you have to as well. Make sure that you investigate everything that PocketSuite can do for you before committing to any other solution.

Like this article? You’ll love our guide on how to generate leads for service businesses in 2022, and of course our Frustrations with Square article!

As a professional massage therapist, you’re probably wondering how you can make the most of your time and skills with Soothe.

In this article, we’ll break down the top reasons that make working with Soothe different from a traditional day job as a massage therapist at a spa and also give tips on how you can make the most of your new gig.

WHY SOOTHE IS DIFFERENT

No doubt, you joined Soothe because they claim that you can make over 3 times as much money as you can make working at a spa.

Soothe offers a 60, 90, or 120 minute massage, which starts at $129 for a 60 minute massage in most US cities. Massage therapists earn 70% of this service price.

Clients can also purchase a monthly or yearly membership, which knocks 20-25% off the retail price.

You can also pick and choose the dates and times that you’d like to work unlike working with a traditional spa.

Their hours range from 8AM to midnight, which gives you plenty of flexibility in terms of setting your own schedule.

While you’re working hard to give your clients a relaxing experience, Soothe has been racing to become the head honcho in the $16B massage therapy industry.

In 2018, Soothe acquired a competing massage therapy startup called Melt, helping it grow even faster and further dominate the massage therapy market.

This is the not the only acquisition made by this Silicon-valley based startup –  they also acquired Y Combinator-backed startup UnWind Me back in 2015.

With this knowledge, you can rest assured that you’re working with an industry leader.

If you’ve passed the rigorous qualification process and been granted access to the platform as a massage therapist, you’re part of the chosen few.

According to Soothe, over 30% of applicants are rejected. They only work with massage therapists that are licensed and independently insured.

So now that you’ve become a part of the Soothe network of professionals, how do you make the most of it?

HOW TO WIN WITH SOOTHE

There are several practices that 5-star rated massage therapists always perform when operating on the platform.

Top massage therapists will bring a table, fresh sheets, and an assortment of lotions with them to the job.

Secondly, if you’re ever worked at a retail establishment or at a coffee shop, you know how rigorously they train and emphasize delivering service with a smile.

Being warm and friendly will also go a long way as this is a service industry and thus having great customer service skills is critical.

This inviting attitude will serve you well and may even lead to more tips and a higher dollar-per-hour pay in your pocket.

Soothe offers some guidance for therapists on their website.

PERFORM A THOROUGH INTAKE

Confirm the type of massage, duration and areas that require extra attention or should be avoided.

STOP WHEN NECESSARY

If you feel uncomfortable, leave – no explanation necessary.

COMMUNICATION

Use the app to communicate with your clients.

STAY CONNECTED

Use the app to check-in and check-out of appointments.

SECURE PAYMENT THROUGH SOOTHE

Use the app for payments.

Soothe then provides you with contact info in case you have any questions, and purports to have 24/7 support for their therapists through phone, text, and email.

The website also mentions some common ‘scams’ of ‘fraud’ attempted by Soothe clients that they warn you about:

Underpayment Scam

Client will try to pay you directly. Refuse.

Tipping Scam

Soothe says that if someone offers to tip in cash, this can be considered Tax Fraud because it can’t be tracked by the IRS. Soothe urges clients to tip within the app.

Appointment Extension Scam

Make sure you see Tip #1 above – Perform a Thorough Intake. Soothe will not compensate you if you go over your allotted time.

Overall, it seems like a win-win for both clients and massage therapists.
A client can book a massage at their convenience and have a massage therapist at their home within 24 hours.

Massage therapists can create and manage their own schedule and work on Soothe as their part-time side hustle or they can build their client base and work full-time using the app.

However, several massage therapists working with the company have claimed that Soothe has lowered their pay, plays favorites, and taken away clients from them.

In order to ensure this type of work culture doesn’t cut into your income as a massage therapist, it’s important to build your own list of clientele as well.

This is where PocketSuite comes in to save the day!

HOW TO WIN AS AN INDEPENDENT MASSAGE THERAPIST

It can be financially as well as professionally rewarding to truly work for yourself by launching your own massage therapy business.

However, if you’re seeking income independence, there are some key things to keep in mind.

GET AN ONLINE PRESENCE

Most, if not all, new clients will most likely find you online. It’s the reason companies like Soothe are doing so well – they’re taking advantage of client’s inherent bias towards searching online when looking for a new service provider of any kind.

Be visible online. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Google
• Yelp
• Online Directories

Of course, without a way for clients to book you, you’re throwing money down the drain because folks will find your business listing, not see an actionable way to book you, and simply move on to a provider that does have online booking.

A simple solution for this would be to install your PocketSuite online booking widget  everywhere you’re showing up online, giving your customers an easy way to book your services as soon as they see your listing

FOLLOW UP AGGRESSIVELY

If you get a lead, give them a call and send them a text message with your booking link as soon as possible!

PocketSuite makes this easy with the business messaging feature – it converts your business messages to text messages and sends them directly to your leads.

Smart Campaigns is another feature that allows you to automatically, proactively follow up with your massage therapy leads to ensure they book with you and not someone else.

MANAGE YOUR BUSINESS WITH POCKETSUITE

Speaking of managing your business, PocketSuite has a full-fledged suite of business tools to help you run your entire massage therapy business from a single app.

Give the Premium plan a shot – you won’t be disappointed, and you’ll be able to finally spend more time building your small business into the behemoth it’s destined to be!

If you’re already using PocketSuite, here’s how to set it up for your massage therapy practice.

Like this article? Check out our article on why massage therapists should become licensed, and how to get licensed.

You’ll also love our guide on how to generate leads for service businesses in 2022, and of course our Frustrations with Square article!