Shhhhh!!! Typically, you’d keep your trade secrets from other private practice PTs… they are your competitors, right?
Networking is a powerful tool underutilized in the physical therapy industry. In the world of private practice, physical therapists already network with other private practice physicians to increase referrals, but did you know, it is just as important to network with other PTs for your own professional development?
Networking is a way to exchange sharing knowledge, information and ideas with like-minded colleagues. As awkward as it may be at first, there are many benefits of ‘talking shop’ with other physical therapists, (even when they are your competitors).
Find your competitive edge
Did you know 1 out of 3 social networking status updates are health related? So, even if you aren’t aware of your competitor’s trends, chances are, your patients are.
They are sharing their experiences and observations online. You need to know what your competitors are up to and explore all opportunities to ensure you stay ahead of the game. Don’t let your competitors remain a mystery. Uncover what your peers are doing to help patients and use this information to make your business even better.
How to: competitive research
Start by conducting an online comparison search to find out what your competition is up to both in their online content and in the office.
- What events are they currently promoting?
- Are they working with the same vendors you are?
- Offering the same products?
- Are they using the same technologies as you are or are they more advanced?
- Are they offering any unique treatment protocols you could be offering?
Understanding your competition helps you to advance technologies in the field.
Improved social benefit
Though it may feel unnatural and intimidating at times, networking within your field nurtures the social component of overall career satisfaction. Think of networking as a way to help other professionals working towards the same goals. Expanding your web of contacts and resources gives you confidence in knowing that your work, combined with the work of your peers, is actually making a difference in your profession.
How to: professional associations
Joining a network or association is a good way to take advantage of professional collaboration. For example, the APTA’s advocacy efforts keep you aware of major legislative issues important to you and your patients. Similarly, networking with your peers can be beneficial whether it’s as part of a professional organization or through personal relationships.
The more people you know, the more people you are able to help. You may find some connections that are non-competitive and mutually beneficial.
Improved strategic thinking
When you find a non-competitive connection with another PT, you will find your strategic thinking improves exponentially. What works for one, works for the whole. This means, when you have any issue in your physical therapy business, the answer could be just a friendly phone call away. Chances are, someone else in your network has already dealt with a similar issue in their business and is more than happy to advise you on the situation. Each participant comes forth with their own knowledge and perception that contribute to the collective knowledge of the group.
How to: online physical therapy networking
The internet provides a non-confrontational method of interaction that instantly connects you with hundreds of peers. It may be difficult to network with other physical therapy businesses in your area because you are direct competitors, but, Facebook, LinkedIn, blogs, and chat rooms can produce fulfilling conversations between professionals from around the globe. For example, APTA’s blog, PT in Motion, raises awareness of popular issues facing physical therapists throughout the country and offers the opportunity to leave comments and join in conversations on popular issues facing the profession today.
Networking with peers enhances your therapy career by sharing knowledge, information and ideas with colleagues who share common goals and interests. Joining an online community, professional, or franchise organization are great ways to stay competitive and build your professional network. Collaborating with like-minded professionals puts you ahead of the game and can provide marketing opportunities beyond your personal reach.
FYZICAL offers built-in networking advantages and educational programs ONLY a franchise organization can provide, specifically designed to bring growth, success, and prosperity to independent practice owners across the country. In fact, in a franchise, your success is a direct correlation to the group’s success and vice versa. Get a jump start on building your network, register for a free informational, PT networking event by clicking here.
