MedEsthetics magazines offers business education and in-depth coverage of the latest noninvasive cosmetic procedures for physicians and practice managers working in the medical aesthetics industry.
Issue link: https://medesthetics.epubxp.com/i/156138
PROFESSIONAL NETWORKING When evaluating formal networking groups, visit appropriate groups a few times before joining. and professionalism, and keep your referral source in the loop. Remember that your actions are a reflection on your referral source. NURTURING NETWORK RELATIONSHIPS People are not truly part of your network until you have created a perceived relationship with them. Within 24 hours of meeting someone in person, follow up via phone, email, text or written letter. Keep a simple database of new contacts. Then continue to nurture the relationship by providing followup information on your practice and inviting that person to join you on social media sites or in person for lunch, a round of golf or at a social event that is of interest to both of you. Initial meetings should not be just about work, nor should they be just about you. Focus on interpersonal subjects that will help to build this new relationship, and talk about things that you both find interesting. These face-to-face meetings are one of the keys to successful networking, which—with time and effort—will materially grow your business. Cheryl Whitman is the CEO of Beautiful Forever, a national aesthetic business consulting firm that helps physicians develop new profit centers for practice growth. Contact her at cheryl@beautifulforever.com. © ISTOCKPHOTO.COM • Does this group put you in contact with strategic partners? • Does it attract members of your target patient base? • Does it offer training in new skills that will help you grow your practice? Only focus on groups that fulfill the screening criteria you selected. Then, when you're ready to start networking, visit as many of those groups as possible, and look for other criteria, such as: • Do you feel comfortable with the group's tone and attitude? • Do you feel welcome—could you see yourself actually being productive in this group meeting? • Do the members seem supportive of one another? • Does the group have competent leadership? When evaluating formal networking groups, visit appropriate groups a few times before joining. Arrive at the meeting early and stay late. While there, participate by speaking with as many members as you can, and be an active listener. Educate them about your business and learn as much as you can about their professional backgrounds. Once you commit to the group, consider hosting a meeting at your practice. Should a member provide a referral, follow through quickly and efficiently. Do so with the utmost respect 44 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2013 | MedEsthetics