Many people see networking as handing out business cards, drinking old coffee, and eating stale muffins, all in the hopes of building referral relationships. On top of that, networking can be intimidating, especially to introverted people.
But networking has come a long way as social media has developed. We’re no longer limited to networking in bars and conference rooms. We can meet thousands of people from all around the world on social media. We can connect based on any number of shared interests. And we can get started for free, any time, from anywhere.
One of the most rewarding types of networking I’ve done over the past several years was to network with dental professionals, both online and in person. Theoretically, of course, other dentists are competing for the same patients as we are—at least the local ones are. Thus, it might seem counterintuitive to want to connect more with them. Additionally, running a dental practice takes a lot of work and can take a lot of time. Why would we spend precious free time networking?
When I started networking with other dental professionals, I quickly learned how valuable and rewarding it can be. It changed my life, and I’ve witnessed thousands of other dental professionals to improve their lives, too. Here are just three benefits you can experience from networking with other professionals.
You can share resources
My brand is called Nifty Thrifty Dentists for a reason. I like saving money and helping other dentists save money, too. When you network with other dentists, you can share resources, deals on supplies, and even join together for group-buying deals.
The Nifty Thrifty Dentists Facebook group is the best place to share resources and save money together. It’s built around helping dental practices get the best deals on the best dental products and services. You could save a lot of money sharing in the Nifty Thrifty deals or by joining group-buying programs. Additionally, you could share forms, practice documents, vendor connections and more. In the Nifty Thrifty Dentists Facebook community, you will find more than 17,000 dental professionals sharing countless practice resources.
You can get mentored—and be a mentor
Learning, being open to learning, and being willing to share wisdom from your experiences are three of the most important traits to develop as a dental professional.
Networking with other dental professionals allows each of you to learn from people in different stages of their careers. Professionals who are just starting out will have a totally new outlook that can freshen up their practice. Professionals who have been in the industry for decades can share wisdom from common experiences. You can also learn from practices in different parts of the country or world. You can also be a mentor to other dental professionals.
You can connect with some of the most generous people in the world
Dental professionals are very generous people. They are constantly helping each other. I have consistently been blown away by the generosity of dental professionals. Whether it is one professional helping another with advice or direction or a full-scale giving event, dental professionals are givers. That generosity is contagious and inspiring.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a professional who isn’t willing to offer advice or a helping hand to others.
It’s time to find a networking group!
These are only some of the benefits of networking with other dental professionals. If you haven’t yet started networking with other dental professionals, the Nifty Thrifty Dentists Facebook Group is a great place to start.
It is a thriving group of over 17,000 dentists that are looking to help and learn from others. And we’re always welcoming new professionals and practices. Join now. Start reaping the benefits of networking with dental professionals.
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