Ways to Land a Massage Job While Still in School

You should wait until you have graduated from massage school, passed the National Massage Exam (NCBTMB), and have your state license before applying for a massage job, right? WRONG! During these tough economic times it is important that you get an early jump on your massage therapy career. Waiting and waiting until everything is lined up just so may leave you with months of "free" time on you hands. The massage therapy education that you invested in will pay off if you take the proper steps. Use your time as a student wisely. Use the collective efforts of your school community to prepare yourself and to land a massage job while still a student.

First begin by deciding what type of job you want. The field of massage therapy offers so many opportunities. You can pursue employment on a cruise ship, in a day spa, salon, doctor's office, physical therapist, or for a professional or amateur sports team. What interests you most? Speak with your instructors and career counselors to get a better understanding of which job opportunities would best match your interests, goals, and skillset.

Next, begin working on your resume. Maintain a professional image by submitting an appropriate cover letter and resume to all jobs you seek to be considered for. On your resume highlight any previous relevant experience. (i.e. receptionist work done at a spa, medical knowledge, or hospitality experience) If you lack professional experience, focus more on your knowledge of the modalities taught in your program. Employers want to know what type of bodywork you can perform. Make it clear to them. Don't forget to include the experience you gained in participating in student clinic. Detail the number of hours and amount of clients you worked on.

Search the web for job opportunities in your area. Most schools have a Career Services Department that will have a list of available jobs. Once you have finalized your resume start submitting it to your jobs of interests even if you do not meet all of their desired qualifications of the job. You never know how flexible an employer is willing to be until you ask. Plus, you will want to practice interviewing for massage therapy positions.

Stop by local spas and salons simply to meet and greet. Introduce yourself and leave a resume behind. Employers are looking for polished go-getters. Be proactive and let potential employers know when you'll be ready for hire. Network with other professionals. The best jobs I've ever landed where those that I already had before stepping foot in the interview. The referral from a colleague made all the difference. Join professional organizations, such as AMTA and ABMP. These organizations will provide you with the liability coverage that most employers require but most importantly will establish you as a serious candidate. So start early. Decide what type of work you want. Solicit the help of instructors and other professionals. Submit as many resumes as possible and interview. interview, interview. Practice makes perfect. With a little determination you should have no problem landing a massage job while still in school.