A Client's Guide

So I came across this booklet, A Client's Guide, on the Manworks website. It was written by Jason T. I thought it may be helpful to those people who are wondering what your role as a client is.

Client's Guide

by Jason T.

I have been enjoying massage and bodywork for almost two decades. I could model for "Rochester Big & Tall Men's Fashions" because I am over six foot and over 240 pounds. I am a busy professional with irregular hours. I have had my share of excellent massage experiences which motivated me to become a long time client and I also have had the opposite. I have even broken some of these cardinal rules and had to accept the consequences. Accept my advice; learn from my mistakes.

Read the ad. Read the ad thoroughly and comprehend what you read before making contact. Don't be blinded by the pretty pictures, read the words too. Pictures can be misleading but together they say a lot about the masseur and more importantly whether he would be a good masseur for you.

Make contact. Email & texting is okay if it's okay with him, but the phone is usually the preferred method; especially for appointment confirmations. Ask questions if the answers are not found in his ad BUT bear in mind, if his ad says 'Therapeutic' only, you shouldn't ask for erotic services. Be upfront. If you're ticklish, have any previous injuries, conditions, etc. Full disclosure can prevent pain, embarrassment, hurt feelings & disappointments.

Be prompt. Essential! Moreover, you should be mindful of his cancellation policy. Things happen in everyday life but Always Always Always give at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Some masseurs may impose a penalty. Tardiness? We all hate it. Masseurs hate it more. Being late kills the mood, the atmosphere; your session will suffer. Miss Manners (if she cared about such things) might recommend compensating him for the tardiness. Your time is precious and so is his.

Hygiene, baby, Hygiene. Be freshly showered & scrubbed before arrival, especially if a shower is not available at his location. Brush your teeth before arrival. Breath strips are your friend. Never underestimate the awful destructive power of bad breath. Beware the silent gross-out! Athlete's foot. Treat before getting a massage or letting anyone touch your feet. The potential for embarrassment is great for you. The potential for disgust by your masseur? Just as great.

Be respectful. Use good manners especially during initial contact. Be mindful of his boundaries; you know what I am saying.

Thank him. Tipping while not mandatory is strongly encouraged. Tipping says you enjoyed the experience, you appreciate his efforts and you'd like to return.

Write a review about your experience and email a copy to him. He will appreciate it and the review will nurture a good business relationship. Potential clients will factor your words into the decision of which masseur to choose.