Friday, March 2, 2012

I am grateful for all of you!






A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues.
-- Cicero


At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.
-- Albert Schweitzer

Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough.
-- Oprah Winfrey

Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting.
-- Author Unknown

Difficulties are opportunities to better things; they are stepping stones to greater experience. Perhaps someday you will be thankful for some temporary failure in a particular direction. When one door closes, another always opens.
-- Author Unknown

Gratitude is something of which none of us can give too much. For on the smiles, the thanks we give, our little gestures of appreciation, our neighbors build their philosophy of life.
-- A. J. Cronin

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.
-- Melody Beattie

Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting.
-- Author Unknown

Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation.
-- Brian Tracy

Every time we remember to say "thank you", we experience nothing less than heaven on earth.
-- Sarah Ban Breathnach

Feeling grateful or appreciative of someone or something in your life actually attracts more of the things that you appreciate and value into your life.
-- Christiane Northrup

Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter into your life and into the lives of all those around you.
-- Eileen Caddy

He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.
-- Epictetus

I am grateful for all of my problems. After each one was overcome, I became stronger and more able to meet those that were still to come. I grew in all my difficulties.
-- James Cash Penney

If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.
-- Meister Eckhardt

If you can't be content with what you have received, be thankful for what you have escaped.
-- Author Unknown

If you concentrate on finding whatever is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul.
-- Rabbi Harold Kushner

If you haven’t all the things you want, be grateful for the things you don’t have that you wouldn’t want.
-- Author Unknown

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
-- Albert Schweitzer

In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.
-- Dietrich Bonhoeffer

It is impossible to feel grateful and depressed in the same moment.
-- Naomi Williams

It isn't what you have in your pocket that makes you thankful, but what you have in your heart.
-- Author Unknown

Just a "thank you" is a mighty powerful prayer. Says it all.
-- Rosie Cash

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
-- Marcel Proust

Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful.
-- Buddha

Make it a habit to tell people thank you. To express your appreciation, sincerely and without the expectation of anything in return. Truly appreciate those around you, and you'll soon find many others around you. Truly appreciate life, and you'll find that you have more of it.
-- Ralph Marston

No one who achieves success does so without the help of others. The wise and confident acknowledge this help with gratitude.
-- Alfred North Whitehead

None is more impoverished than the one who has no gratitude. Gratitude is a currency that we can mint for ourselves, and spend without fear of Bankruptcy.
-- Fred De Witt Van Amburgh

People who live the most fulfilling lives are the ones who are always rejoicing at what they have.
-- Richard Carlson

So often we dwell on the things that seem impossible rather than on the things that are possible. So often we are depressed by what remains to be done and forget to be thankful for all that has been done.
-- Marian Wright Edelman

The grateful mind is constantly fixed upon the best. Therefore it tends to become the best. It takes the form or character of the best, and will receive the best.
-- Wallace D. Wattles

The thankful receiver bears a plentiful harvest.
-- William Blake

The unthankful heart discovers no mercies; but the thankful heart will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings.
-- Henry Ward Beecher

There is a calmness to a life lived in Gratitude, a quiet joy.
-- Ralph H. Blum

There is always, always, always something to be thankful for.
-- Author Unknown

Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out.
-- John Wooden

To educate yourself for the feeling of gratitude means to take nothing for granted, but to always seek out and value the kind that will stand behind the action. Nothing that is done for you is a matter of course. Everything originates in a will for the good, which is directed at you. Train yourself never to put off the word or action for the expression of gratitude.
-- Albert Schweitzer

To live a life of gratitude is to open our eyes to the countless ways in which we are supported by the world around us.Such a life provides less space for our suffering because our attention is more balanced. We are more often occupiedwith noticing what we are given, thanking those who have helped us, and repaying the world in some concrete wayfor what we are receiving.
-- Gregg Krech

What if you gave someone a gift, and they neglected to thank you for it--would you be likely to give them another? Life is the same way. In order to attract more of the blessings that life has to offer, you must truly appreciate what you already have.
-- Ralph Marston

When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around.
-- Willie Nelson

You simply will not be the same person two months from now after consciously giving thanks each day for the abundance that exists in your life. And you will have set in motion an ancient spiritual law: the more you have and are grateful for, the more will be given you.
-- Sarah Ban Breathnach

You won't be happy with more until you're happy with what you've got.
-- Viki King

Friday, February 17, 2012

Independent Contractor Form



Believe Day Spa & Boutique Massage Therapy Independent Contractor Agreement

This agreement, dated February 1st, 2012, is between Believe Day Spa ("clinic")  and ____________________ ("contractor")

Status as Independent Contractor

Contractor is an independent contractor and not an employee of the Clinic. As an independent contractor, Clinic and Contractor agree to the following:
  1. Contractor has control of the means, manner and method by which services are provided.
  2. Contractor furnishes all necessary supplies and materials used in the performance of services (e.g., oils, lotions, linens and music).
  3. Contractor has the right to perform services for others during the term of this Agreement. Contractor shall not solicit or provide services to Clinic's clients for private practice during the term of this Agreement or for one year after termination. Upon termination of Agreement, Contractor and Clinic shall discuss which clients, under what conditions and with what compensation Contractor may maintain continuity of service. All client records shall remain the property of the Clinic unless otherwise agreed.
  4. Contractor shall indemnify and hold Clinic harmless from any loss or liability arising from services provided under this agreement.
  5. Contractor is responsible for maintaining appropriate certification and licensure (including all costs thereof).

Services to Be Provided by Contractor

Contractor agrees to provide massage therapy services within the scope of licensure. Contractor agrees to dress in a style consistent with the Clinic's image. Contractor shall maintain client records in a mutually agreed manner.

Services to Be Provided by Clinic

Clinic shall provide the following: a safe, clean environment; a room furnished with a massage table appointment scheduling according to Contractor's stipulated hours; and marketing.

Other Provisions

All Contractor's marketing materials which include any information about Clinic must be approved in advance.

Fees, Terms of Payment and Fringe Benefits

Contractor agrees to keep $25 for in clinic service and $40 for mobile service (New Massage Therapists $17 for in clinic service and $30 for mobile service).  Clinic shall retain the remaining fees collected on behalf of contractor to cover operating expenses, room rental, equipment usage and marketing (see Other Provisions). Contractor acknowledges that Contractor is not eligible to receive any employee benefits.

Local, State and Federal Taxes

Contractor is responsible for paying and filing all applicable local, state and federal withholding, social security and Medicare taxes.

Workers' Compensation and Unemployment Insurance

Clinic is not responsible for payment of Workers' Compensation and Unemployment Insurance. If Clinic is a corporation, Contractor must provide Clinic with a certificate of Workers' Compensation Insurance prior to performing services.

Insurance

During the term of this agreement, Contractor shall maintain a malpractice insurance policy of at least $2,000,000 aggregate annual and $1,000,000 per incident.

Term of Agreement

Either party may terminate this agreement, given reasonable cause, as provided below, or by giving 30 days written notice to the other party of the intention to terminate this Agreement:
  1. Material violation of the provisions of this Agreement.
  2. Action by either party exposing the other to liability for property damage or personal injury.
  3. Violation of ethical standards as defined by local, state and/or national associations and governing bodies.
  4. Loss of licensure for services provided.
  5. Contractor engages in any pattern or course of conduct on a continuing basis which adversely affects Contractor's ability to perform services.
  6. Contractor engages in any pattern or course of conduct on a continuing basis which adversely affects Clinic's or Clinic's associates' ability to perform services.
  7. It is agreed that any unresolved disputes will be settled by arbritration, including costs thereof.
This constitutes the entire agreement between Contractor and Clinic and supersedes any and all prior written or verbal agreements. Should any part of this agreement be deemed unenforceable, the remainder of the agreement continues in effect. This agreement is governed by the laws of the District of Columbia.

Signatures

Contractor:Date:
Clinic:Date:
Witness:Date:


Welcome Massage Therapist


Hi everyone,

I just wanted to make sure that we are all on the same page. Listed are a few tips that have helped in growing and rebooking my client's list. My business has a great reputation, and I have worked very hard to get there, so please be mindful of that. 


1- Dress professionally & Smile :-) No flip flops/ No Jeans!
Create a lasting first impression...

2- Clean sheets (Nice Twin sheets can be purchased at goodwill for $1.99) 
(Make sure there is no rancid smell on your sheets for those of you who use oil) 
I use organic sheets, if anyone is interested, I have about 6 left, and they cost me $20 (reg. $44) for 2 sheets. They look more professional and softer on client's skin. Great investment! 

3- Please do not try to have a conversation during the session (unless clients initiate the talking). The clients are there to relax, so create a relaxing environment for them. 

4- Tailor made session for client (We should take 5 min to listen to client's need, and figure out the best treatment for them). They must consent to receiving treatment as well (liability issue). Please do not perform deep tissue on a client when they ask for a relaxation massage (they will not come back).  ASK FOR ALLERGIES!!!
You may add your suggestions to upgrade ONLY if you think that would benefit the client's need. There is a $10 upgrade for any additional modalities, $5 extra for each additional upgrades (HOT STONE + $15 ). 
Please make sure you communicate that ahead of time with the client to see if they are willing to pay for the extra service. (Stone massage is a great way to make some extra cash). Everyone should have their own stones, and a small crockpot (Crockpot $ 2.99 @ Goodwill and stone can be purchased on ebay). I have had clients requesting hot stone massage, but could not find any therapists to perform the service. 
Intake form must be filled out before each session (No exception). Please cross out the space for their personal information, they only need to put their initial and date of service to be sure we are in compliance with the "Health Insurance Portability and Acountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)." We need client's consent before performing any service due to liability issue. I need a copy of these intake forms to be either mailed or faxed to me right after the session, so that it can be added to their progress notes. 

5- Please provide us with the following items:
*Resume
*Copy of your liability insurance policy page.
*Copy of your license
*Copy of your Driver's license
*JPEG photo- (a recent photograph that I will post on the website for identification purposes*)--- It helps the client know which therapist will be working on them. I trust you all, but this identification process also helps the client connect to you prior to their session. Please click on this link for an example -->> (Massage Therapy)
 *Please let me know about your criminal background or anything illegal on your record. I am sending some of you to client's home, so I need to know if there is anything in your past record. 
Due to the high volume of interest in working with Believe Day Spa, we must give priority to therapists who send their information to us in a timely manner.  

6- Payment (Compensation)

*For in spa services, you will get paid $25 (New Graduate Therapist $17) + 50% of any upgrades
*For mobiles services, you will get paid $40 (New Graduate Therapist $30) + 50% of any upgrades
*For our new therapists, we understand that you are getting hands on experience. We start you at a lower rate because if anything goes wrong, we have to pay an experienced therapist to make up for your service. After 3 months of performing outstanding services and getting great feedbacks from clients, you will be upgraded to senior therapists.

* It is very convenient to me if you have a Bank of America account. As soon as I get a confirmation from the client that the session has ended, I will transfer the money to your account. You'll get paid the same day :-) 
* If you don't have a Bank of America account, I will have to mail you a check the next business day. It usually takes 3 to 4 business days. 

7- If you  have any suggestions, please feel free to call, text, or email me. 

8- I will try my best to give you all more time to prepare for your appointment. 
* Please locate the address before your appointment
* Be on time for your appointment

9- Our clients list belongs to Believe Day Spa. It is unprofessional to share your contact info with clients. This is not acceptable!


10- Rebooking clients after each session. By taking the time to interview each client, and understand the reason for their massage, it will make it easier for us to rebook them. Relaxation is a process, not a one time thing. If they are looking for relaxation, then suggest that they come back to see you in 2 weeks or once a month. Same thing with pain relief, they need more than one session to solve their issue. If we could have each client come back and see us, we will have more business. Bringing one client is extremely expensive to the business owner. We are not the only massage place in Jacksonville. We are competing against many others. We need to make sure that we go beyond their expectations.
"ASK CLIENTS TO REBOOK - Probably the easiest and most effective way I have found to keep my schedule not just full but overflowing is by consistently rebooking existing clients, rather than merely bringing in a steady flow of new clients. Clearly, the best time to get a client to schedule another appointment with you is while they are still in your office. They have just experienced your wonderful work and are sure to be enthusiastic about coming back. Not only that, but you are face-to-face, and able to discuss all the appointment possibilities in person rather than through voicemail or answering machines." (Retrieved from www.Spalutions.com/)

Tips for mobile services
- Dress professionally
- Bring a small radio to create a spa setting to those clients (They must experience the value in what they are paying). Being a great LMT is not good enough. 
- Call me before you go in, and call me after you leave. I try my best to screen each caller, but I cannot guarantee their behavior once they meet you face to face. Stand firm and stay in control of the situation (don't be rude). If anyone is acting inappropriately "Ask them if they would like you to terminate the session, and inform them you are not comfortable with their behavior". If it gets worse, grab your belongings and leave the session. We are not responsible for any damage caused by our clients. That's why we strongly encourage you to carry your liability insurance. Doing mobile massage services can be risky, it's always a good thing to have someone along with you or let them know your whereabouts.  

12- We are a Christian based business, therefore any sensual/sexual services requests are not acceptable. We will notify the authority and investigate any massage therapists messing up our reputation and policy. 

13- During the session, find a way to stimulate your client's five senses (Tips)

Sight: Clean sheets, rose petals on the table
Smell: Aromatherapy (lavender preferred) 
Hearing: Relaxation music
Touch: massage or use hot stone
Taste: I give them a bottle of water at the end of the session (That's less than $1). They  appreciate the gesture!

14- We need their feedback. At the end of the session ask them if they would fill out your feedback form. Those are great marketing tools that we can post on the website and keep for your portfolio as well. For privacy reason, they can just put their initials. Another benefit to this is the opportunity to better serve the client the next time they schedule a massage.

15- Availability. Please provide me with a schedule of your availability on a weekly basis by either text or email. In order to run the business smoothly we need massage therapists who are dependable, reliable, and professional.


16- If you fail to provide us with the Intake form and Feedback form, we will no longer use you as an independent contractor. 

Joanna Benoit, LMT Copyright 2012