Unified Practice

If you’re a professional acupuncturist, your success in the field is always going to benefit from networking with fellow practitioners.

There is the basic human solace in sharing your stories — both the triumphs and the frustrations — with people who understand exactly where you’re coming from. It’s reassuring when you realize you are not alone.

But just as important is taking advantage of the community to keep up to date with innovation. And I’m not only talking about the nitty and the gritty of advanced acupuncture techniques. Without access to a network of colleagues, you’ll be missing out on learning about the latest practice management innovations and developments.

Building a strong network will help you assess whether your acupuncture practice is reaching its fullest potential. Are you communicating with all your potential clients? Are you effectively promoting your specialties as a healer? Are you running an efficient operation, meeting your legal requirements, and familiar with the latest features in acupuncture practice management software?

Don’t work in isolation. Take these first steps toward connecting with a wider network of fellow acupuncturists. You won’t regret the investment of time and energy. It’ll pay off in a big way.

1) Go to acupuncture conferences

It’s a great idea to take time out from your practice to attend an acupuncture conference. You’ll hear about the latest research and be introduced to new technological developments. And best of all, you’ll be able to network with professionals from a wide variety of places.

A great conference is reinvigorating. It will remind you why you took up acupuncture in the first place.

2) Join professional societies

Societies focused on acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine exist to encourage the growth of professionalism within the field, promote legislation, and foster collaboration between acupuncture practitioners.

You don’t have to stop at merely signing up and slapping the society decal on your car windscreen. Taking on an active role in a society is a great way of giving back to the acupuncture community — and it will put you in contact with scores of fellow practitioners.

3) Network online

Human contact is irreplaceable, but sometimes your only option will be to go online. Maintain an active web presence and reach out to fellow professionals. It’ll be a crucial outlet when you need help, guidance, or just old-fashioned shop talk.

4) Subscribe to newsletters and mailing lists

If you subscribe to industry newsletters and mailing lists, you’ll not only stay up to date.  You’ll also be introduced to key players in the TCM community — the movers and shakers. It’s a great way to connect.

The Unified Practice newsletter, for example, informs you of exciting networking events, delivers industry news, and gives you the inside tip on new features within our acupuncture practice management software to help you run your clinic more efficiently and profitably.

Networking stimulates ideas and helps you discover new ways to become better at what you do. Just remember — you are not alone.

Guest blog post by Matt Leask.