The Top 10 Ways to Build Your Practice in the New Year!

Originally Submitted on 1/2/98.

To build a successful private practice, there are many business and marketing items that have to be monitored and reviewed periodically. This list is actually two lists of 5 items each. The first five are things to have in your files or in your office, while items 6 through 10 refer to qualities or personal styles that successful professionals incorporate into their practices.

1. A Business Plan. Include a clear mission statement, describe the services and benefits you provide, the people you serve, and financial projections. This is a snapshot of your business.

2. A Marketing Plan. Include a desription of your specific client populations and your plans for reaching them. Include budgets for your time, energy and the money to implement your plan. If potential clients don't know about you, or can't find you, they won't hire you.

3. A Comprehensive Set of Brochures. Have a variety of exercises, handouts and give-aways that describe your practice, solve problems, and provide value for your clients. Make sure every client leaves your office with useful tools, information and ideas to share with their friends.

4. A Plan for Networking. A huge part of success is just showing up! Whether it's civic activity, volunteering at your child's school, or in your house of worship, show up! The more you put into your community, the more you will get back.

5. The Perfect Office. Are your waiting room chairs comfortable? Are your magazines current and appropriate? How about the wall paper, the music, the carpet? Your office should tell each client that when they chose you, they chose the best!

6. Over-Respond to Every Situation. Give far more than expected. Answer every question, then send a relevant article a few days later. Return phone calls immediately! Promise less, then deliver twice what you promised.

7. Eliminate the Cost of Delay. Never wait to get new equipment, a better office or more training. The cost of delay includes too many missed opportunities. If you need it, and you will do it eventually, do itnow! Get on the Internet, get a computer billing system, upgrade your phones. Whatever it is, do it now!

8. Take Superb Care of Yourself. Exercise and eat well, get plenty of rest and hang around the most delightful, challenging and exciting people you can find. See one less client per day, and spend that time adding value to your remaining clients.

9. Market Yourself Shamelessly. Market your practice with style, with passion, good taste and with a low-key honesty that is shame-free and comfortable for everyone around you. The community needs your skills and services. Let them know how to find you!

10. Tolerate No Distractions. A clear vision and a passionate dedication to your priorities makes life simpler and you become incredibly attractive to those who share your vision. Clean up any distractions and serve your clients with absolute integrity and total dedication. People know when they are getting your best!

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