Rely on the Veterans

So you're a new dentist, and you're looking to build your business. You've probably got several ideas of how to attract new patients, and you're exploring different avenues and mediums. However, you may be overlooking the most obvious marketing gold mine: the veteran dentists!

If you're coming into a practice with an already established dentist, there may already be a patient base. However, if you're looking to bring in more patients, consider asking the existing dentist which marketing mediums have worked for him in the past. No one knows the dental practice better, and the community more. You may consider taking advantage of these tidbits, while continuing to explore younger, more eclectic marketing mediums that the veteran dentists expects you to know as a young, energetic newcomer.

If you're establishing your own business, the veteran dentist may be your competitor. However, that doesn't mean he or she is the enemy. You'd be surprised at how many older dentists are happy to share their knowledge and wisdom... as long as you approach this interaction in the right way. Consider scheduling a meeting with the dentist. Explain to him that you have no intention of taking his patients, but you're wondering if, in his infinite wisdom, he has any suggestions for you in building your own successful practice. Chances are, since he is older and has an established clientele, he may not have any plans - or the means- to support a huge influx of new patients, and may be happy to share some wisdom with you.