Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/142672
away from "hanging out your shingle" toward some form of employment. Some of the causes are negative: professionals are driven out of private practice by the complexities of the business environment, the drive to keep costs down, and high levels of competition for services. But in the case of bodywork, the trend also reflects increased public interest in pursuing good health and emotional well-being. The "mainstreaming" of massage therapy has resulted in opportunities in day spas, resorts, business hotels, gyms, and even companies looking for perks to attract top employees. Its growing legitimacy as an adjunct to conventional health care has opened more opportunities to work in conjunction with medical practices, chiropractors, and other health practitioners. The benefits of employment are obvious—a degree of security, salary and benefits, regular hours, freedom from the responsibilities of running a practice, and the ability to focus all your energies on your work. This option might quickly be described as sacrificing potential revenue in order to minimize risk. A growing number of recent massage school graduates are taking jobs in such settings as a transition step. They may work three days a week at a spa or athletic club, then use other time to establish their own practice. Once their business reaches a critical mass, they wean themselves away from the institutional job. One final note: a growing number of massage therapists have "blended" careers of two or more occupations. In fact, this demographic accounts for more than one-third of all massage therapists. From health care to hospitality, MTs with blended careers enjoy expanding their professional identities, leveraging their finances, and reenergizing their bodywork practices by fueling growth in multiple areas. Partnerships A final option is to find a partner. Joining or creating a partnership of compatible practitioners has many benefits. Each individual brings his or her talents and interests to bear on the running of the practice, and there is an opportunity to share both the financial responsibilities and management responsibilities. It also provides much of the freedom of private practice without having to shoulder the entire responsibility. But if you consider this option, choose wisely. A business partnership is much like a marriage—easy to get into, but messy to get out of. SPH The career path you choose should reflect your own personal goals and interests, as well as your personal strengths and weaknesses.