By Courtney Slivka
Enrolling in massage school jump-starts new and rewarding careers for many people. However, a number of students need to continue working while attending classes to pay for rent, bills, and living expenses. For many of these students, finding a job while in school can be one of the greatest challenges of their academic career. Luckily, massage students are often at an advantage in the job search.
Many of the work environments that employ licensed massage therapists also welcome students with open arms, and are able to accommodate their non-traditional schedules. And even better, taking an entrance level position as a student can often lead to a full time gig upon graduation.
In the average community there are a number of different businesses where you will find massage therapists. Potential work environments include spas, gyms, health clubs, and more. Good news for massage students: many of these businesses also hire desk staff, receptionists, assistants, and housekeepers. Taking one of the front-of-house or behind-the-scenes positions can be extremely beneficial to you, and your employer.
As a massage school student, working along side massage therapists adds an extra layer to your education. You can approach it as an internship, taking advantage of lessons both in the classroom and in the workplace. Seeking employment among massage professionals also provides a great opportunity to network with others in your field. The potential to build relationships with your colleagues can not only increase your quality of life, but also help to grow your career. You may even find a willing mentor who is more than happy to show you the ropes of the trade.
Students are not the only ones who benefit from taking these positions while enrolled in school. Many employers look forward to the opportunity to get to know their employees before trusting them with valuable clients. It is often easier and more desirable for them to hire full time massage therapists from within their company instead of outsiders to their business. You can prove your professionalism, integrity, and work ethic right from the start, which makes life easier on your employer.
Even if you decide to seek employment elsewhere upon graduation, you can take the connections you have made with you into the future. Many states require letters of recommendation before a graduate can receive their massage license. Co-workers from a natural health based work environment can be great references, and may even be able to provide job leads or client referrals in the future.
If you are truly excited about your massage therapy career, consider investigating your job options right away. Do research on your own to find businesses that are the best fit for your career goals and current situation. If possible, seek help from your career services department at your massage school for further assistance in securing the first job of your massage therapy dreams.
© 2012 Massage Schools Guide