Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/142672
outcall service and safety By Sandra GIll Needed Supplies Outcall service simply means the massage, bodywork, or somatic therapist is going to the client, instead of the client coming to the therapist. Outcall service may be provided in the client's home, an apartment or townhome, a hotel, a resort area, a business office, or some other location. Therapists often offer outcalls for clients who are homebound, disabled, or terminally ill. Outcall service can be marketed to a variety of target groups. A basic name and listing in your local telephone directory under "Massage, Therapeutic" will allow potential clients to contact you. A letter of introduction explaining your service may be sent to local hotels, lodges, temporary housing, health clubs, athletic facilities, homeowner associations, bridal planners, etc. These letters should be followed up with a phone call and/or personal visit. Develop a referral relationship with a hotel's front desk manager or concierge and managers of other businesses who may provide both referrals and prescreening. When you set your fee for outcall service, factor in your travel time, setup, and take-down time, as well as the wear and tear on your vehicle, equipment, and body. Check out prevailing rates in your area, but only let this be a guide. This is also the time to develop your policies on check acceptance, credit cards, and package discounts. For your supplies, remember the hiking maxim of "keep it light." Carry no more than is required. Invest in a lightweight, portable massage table, case, and rolling carrier. Other supplies include sheets and face cradle covers, several bottles of lotion/oil (in case you forget one at a previous appointment), lotion/ oil holster (if you use one), a cell phone, your personal organizer, business cards and your brochure, music in different formats (CDs and MP3s), a small music player, change for payment, and cleaning supplies for the table. These items may be conveniently kept in a medium-sized rolling suitcase. You may consider using the client's blankets and pillow for warmth and bolstering, instead of hauling these around. In your vehicle, have clean sheets, a laundry bag for dirty sheets, maps of the area, food, and drink. When you set your fee for outcall service, factor in your travel time, setup, and take-down time.