Preparation Doesn’t Prevent Problems—It Changes How You Respond

We spend so much of our lives making plans.

Business plans.

Travel plans.

Career plans.

Retirement plans.

Planning is important. It gives us direction and purpose. But life has a way of reminding us that not everything is within our control.

  • Sometimes the unexpected is inconvenient.
  • Sometimes it’s frightening.
  • Sometimes it’s life-changing.

When we hear the phrase unexpected event, our minds usually go to flat tires, medical diagnoses, canceled flights, lost jobs, or broken relationships.

But some of life’s greatest blessings begin unexpectedly, too.

  • An unexpected phone call.
  • An introduction that becomes a lifelong friendship.
  • A career opportunity you never saw coming.
  • Meeting your future spouse.
  • A client who changes your business.
  • A simple conversation that opens a door you never knew existed.

Looking back over my own life, many of my greatest opportunities arrived completely unplanned. If I had been too attached to my original plan, I might have missed them.

The unexpected isn’t always something to fear. Sometimes it’s exactly what we’ve been waiting for.

Although we can’t predict unexpected events, we can prepare for them. On that highway, I wasn’t prepared for a blown tire.

But I was prepared with resources.

  • I knew who to call.
  • I had roadside assistance.
  • I had AAA.
  • I had a husband who answered the phone immediately.

Preparation didn’t prevent the problem. It made the problem manageable.

The same principle applies in business and leadership.

You cannot prevent every challenge.

You can’t anticipate every difficult conversation, staffing change, economic shift, technology failure, or unexpected obstacle.

But you can build systems, relationships, and skills that help you navigate them with greater confidence.

Preparation doesn’t eliminate uncertainty. It reduces panic.

Pressure has a way of exposing our character.

When plans fall apart, we discover whether we lead with fear or focus. Whether we panic or problem-solve. Whether we freeze or move forward.

As a speaker coach, I often remind my clients that the presentation rarely unfolds exactly as they rehearsed.

  • A microphone stops working.
  • Slides won’t advance.
  • The projector fails.
  • A participant asks a challenging question.
  • The room responds differently than expected.

The audience doesn’t judge you by whether something goes wrong. They remember how you respond.

The same is true for leaders.

Your team isn’t looking for perfection. They’re looking for confidence, composure, and someone who can guide them through uncertainty.

Looking back, the flat tire wasn’t really the story.

The story was about preparation. It was about the people who showed up when I needed them most. It was about staying calm, thanks dad, when circumstances changed in an instant.

Unexpected events are inevitable. How we respond to them is a choice.

The same is true in business and leadership.

A presentation won’t always go as planned. Technology will fail. A key employee may resign. A client may ask a question you weren’t expecting. A meeting may take an entirely different direction.

The leaders who thrive aren’t the ones who avoid surprises.

They’re the ones who are prepared to navigate them with confidence, communicate clearly under pressure, and adapt without losing their composure Ready to strengthen your leadership presence before the next unexpected moment? Join me for my upcoming webinar, Leading With Presence: Ways to Influence Every Room You Enter, and discover practical strategies to lead with confidence, clarity, and influence—no matter what comes your way.

That evening reminded me of something I often tell my clients: Preparation doesn’t guarantee everything will go according to plan. It gives you the confidence to handle it when it doesn’t.

Life’s greatest opportunities—and its greatest challenges—often arrive without warning. The question isn’t whether unexpected events will happen.

They will.

The question is: Will you be ready when they do?

Whether you’re preparing for a presentation, leading your team through change, or navigating an unexpected challenge, your ability to communicate with clarity and confidence will determine how others respond.

Preparation isn’t about expecting perfection. It’s about developing the confidence, presence, and resilience to lead when life takes an unexpected detour.

If you’re ready to strengthen your leadership presence, become a more confident speaker, or communicate with greater influence when it matters most, I’d love to partner with you.

Because the moments you prepare for are important—but it’s the moments you never see coming that define your leadership.


If you are ready to use speaking as a growth strategy for your consulting business, schedule a speaker coaching call today. Let’s turn your expertise into a message that connects, converts, and creates new opportunities.

Book Your Session

Ready to level up your leadership?
Visit CommunicateWithInfluence.org or connect with me on LinkedIn to learn how I help dental consultants grow.

#CommunicateWithInfluence #LeadershipDevelopment #SpeakerCoach #ConfidenceSpark


Speak, Connect, Convert:  The Revenue Power of Speaking

A few months ago, I watched a brilliant consultant stand in front of a room full of potential clients and completely disappear.

Not physically, of course. She was standing right there.

But her message disappeared.

She had the experience. She had the expertise. She had the stories, the strategy, and the kind of insight that could genuinely help the people in that room.

Speaking is not just about getting in front of more people. It is about making the right people want to take the next step with you.

Consultants are often told to network more, post more, email more, and “stay visible.”

That advice is not wrong. It is just incomplete.

If you are a consultant, one of the most powerful ways to reach a larger number of potential clients is to step onto a speaking platform. Whether that platform is a conference stage, webinar, podcast, panel discussion, lunch-and-learn, study club, association meeting, or team training, speaking allows people to experience how you think, how you communicate, and how you can help them solve a problem.

And when done well, speaking does more than build visibility. It builds trust, creates authority, and opens the door to revenue.

Many consultants make the mistake of treating speaking as a one-time presentation instead of a business development strategy. They prepare the slides. They deliver the content. They answer a few questions. Then they leave the room hoping someone follows up.

Hope is not a strategy. It is a very weak follow-up plan wearing comfortable shoes.

A strong speaking platform should be designed to move the audience from interest to action. That does not mean turning your presentation into a sales pitch. Nobody came to hear a 60-minute commercial dressed up as education.

It means your message should clearly position you as a trusted guide. Your audience should leave understanding the problem more clearly, seeing the cost of staying where they are, and recognizing that you have a process, perspective, or solution that can help them move forward.

Consultants usually have no shortage of knowledge. The challenge is not having enough information. The challenge is knowing what to leave out.

A common speaking mistake is trying to prove expertise by sharing everything you know. That leads to crowded slides, overloaded content, and an audience that may respect your knowledge but feel too overwhelmed to act.

Your audience does not need everything in your brain. They need the right message, in the right order, with the right level of clarity.

This is where speaker coaching can make a significant difference.

Strong speaking is not about sounding polished for the sake of sounding polished. It is about helping your audience follow your message, stay engaged, and know exactly what to do next.

People decide quickly whether they trust a speaker.

Before they ever hire you, refer you, or invite you back, they are asking themselves questions:

Do I believe this person understands my problem?
Can this person communicate clearly?
Would I want this person working with my team?
Do they seem confident without being arrogant?
Are they practical, credible, and relatable?

That is speaker presence.

Speaker presence is not about being theatrical or pretending to be someone you are not. It is about showing up with clarity, confidence, and connection. If you’d like to learn more about speaker presence, join this upcoming webinar:  Leading With Presence:  Ways to Influence Every Room you Enter.

For consultants, presence matters because your audience is not only evaluating your content. They are evaluating what it would feel like to work with you.

If you appear scattered, rushed, overly scripted, or disconnected from the room, your expertise may not land. But when you speak with confidence and authority, your audience begins to see you as the person who can help them create change.

A speaking platform gives you access to a room full of potential clients, but engagement is what keeps them leaning in.

Engagement does not mean forcing awkward audience participation or adding gimmicks. It means creating moments where your audience sees themselves in the message.

Ask thoughtful questions. Use relevant stories. Include examples that reflect their real challenges. Build in reflection points. Give them language they can repeat later.

When the audience feels seen, they listen differently.

They are no longer thinking, “This is interesting.”
They are thinking, “This is exactly what we are dealing with.”

That is the moment your speaking begins to generate opportunity.

It is one thing for me to explain how speaker coaching helps consultants clarify their message, engage the audience, and create more opportunities.

It is even better to hear it from someone who experienced the process firsthand.

In this short video testimonial, you will hear how speaker coaching helped turn ideas into a clearer message, strengthen delivery, and build the kind of confidence that helps an audience lean in and take action.

One of the biggest missed revenue opportunities in speaking is a weak or missing call to action.

Consultants often end with, “Thank you,” and hope people come find them.

That is leaving money on the table.

Your call to action should tell the audience exactly how to continue learning from you. It may be to schedule a discovery call, download a resource, attend a workshop, scan a QR code, join your email list, book a team training, or connect for a strategy session.

The key is to make the next step simple, relevant, and aligned with the presentation.

A strong call to action is not pushy. It is helpful. It gives people who are ready to move forward a clear path.

When you learn how to structure your message, engage your audience, and deliver a clear call to action, speaking becomes more than a visibility tool. It becomes a revenue engine.

One strong presentation can lead to consulting contracts, coaching clients, referrals, podcast invitations, future speaking opportunities, and partnerships.

But it does not happen by accident.

It happens when your presentation is intentionally designed to connect, educate, and convert.

If you are a consultant, your next client may already be sitting in your audience.

But they need to do more than hear your information. They need to feel your confidence, understand your value, trust your message, and know exactly how to take the next step with you.

That is where speaker coaching changes everything.

Through speaker coaching, you will learn how to structure your message, simplify your content, strengthen your stage presence, engage your audience, and deliver a call to action that does not feel salesy — it feels natural, clear, and compelling.

Whether you are preparing for a conference presentation, webinar, podcast interview, panel discussion, workshop, or client-facing talk, coaching helps you speak with more clarity, confidence, and authority.

Do not leave future clients wondering what you do or how you can help them.

Give them a reason to lean in, listen, and move forward.


If you are ready to use speaking as a growth strategy for your consulting business, schedule a speaker coaching call today. Let’s turn your expertise into a message that connects, converts, and creates new opportunities.

Book Your Session

Ready to level up your leadership?
Visit CommunicateWithInfluence.org or connect with me on LinkedIn to learn how I help dental consultants grow.

#CommunicateWithInfluence #LeadershipDevelopment #SpeakerCoach #ConfidenceSpark


How to Show Gratitude to Patients: Tips for Building Stronger Relationships

Halloween marks a special milestone for my husband and me as we celebrated our 32nd anniversary. As you can see, we love to dress up and celebrate!

Over the years, we’ve developed a fun tradition: each year, we either treat ourselves to dinner at a new restaurant or stay home, cozy up by the fire, and wait for trick-or-treaters. This year, however, our plans took an unexpected turn. A sudden plumbing issue arose, and instead of a fancy dinner or a night in, our “anniversary gift” ended up being a brand-new water heater manifold! I know, romantic right? But despite the change in plans, we felt incredibly grateful to find a reputable plumber who could complete the work in a day.

This experience reminded me how life—and work—doesn’t always go as planned. In dentistry, we often face similar surprises, whether it’s a last-minute schedule change, a sudden equipment issue, or an unexpected patient need. But through it all, one constant remains: our patients. They are the heart of our practice and the reason we do what we do. So, as we enter this season of gratitude, let’s take a moment to reflect on how thankful we are for the trust our patients place in us, their loyalty, and the opportunity we have to make a positive impact on their lives every day.

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time for dental practices to reflect on the importance of patient relationships. This season provides a unique opportunity to show gratitude to our patients, deepen connections, and enhance trust. Here are some effective strategies for dental professionals to express appreciation and build stronger relationships with their patients during the holiday season.

Each patient is unique, and personalized communication goes a long way in making them feel valued. Take a moment to send out holiday-themed messages to your patients, expressing gratitude for their trust in your practice. This can be a simple email or even a handwritten card. Mention specific milestones or treatments they’ve completed with you, showing that you pay attention to their journey. When patients feel remembered and appreciated, they are more likely to stay loyal and trust your recommendations.

Example:

“Hi [Patient’s Name], as we approach the holiday season, we wanted to take a moment to thank you for being part of our dental family. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help you achieve a healthier smile, and we look forward to many more years of supporting your oral health!”

A small discount or promotion can be a thoughtful way to say “thank you” to your patients. Consider offering a discount on teeth whitening, a free sample of dental products, or a reduced rate on specific treatments during the holiday season. Not only does this show appreciation, but it also encourages patients to prioritize their dental health. Be sure to communicate these offers in a way that highlights their exclusive benefit for loyal patients.

Tip:

Frame it as a holiday gift to your patients, rather than a typical promotion. A message like “As a thank you for being a valued patient, enjoy 10% off our teeth whitening services this month!” makes patients feel special and appreciated.

The holiday season is full of treats and celebrations, which can impact dental health. Use this opportunity to communicate useful dental tips for Thanksgiving and beyond. Share advice on maintaining good oral hygiene during the festivities, and perhaps provide a small handout or digital guide on managing sugary snacks. When patients see that you care about their health beyond appointments, it strengthens your relationship with them.

Quick Tips:

Brush and floss regularly, especially during treat-heavy times!

Avoid sticky, sugary foods that linger on teeth.

Make healthy choices.

Rinse with water after meals to help wash away sugar.

Consider hosting a patient appreciation event at your office, where patients can stop by for refreshments, small giveaways, and an opportunity to chat with you and your team. Decorate your office with a warm, autumnal theme, and create a welcoming atmosphere that lets patients know how much you appreciate them. This type of event is a great way to build a sense of community, connect with patients on a personal level, and celebrate your shared commitment to their health.

Ideas for Giveaways:

A raffle for a free or discounted service.

Mini dental care kits with travel-size toothpaste, floss, and a toothbrush.

Thanksgiving-themed cookies or healthy snacks.

One meaningful way to express gratitude is by celebrating your patients’ achievements. With their permission, share testimonials or success stories that highlight their progress and commitment to their oral health. Showcase these stories on your website or social media as a tribute to your patients’ dedication. When patients see themselves celebrated by your practice, it reinforces their loyalty and shows that you value their contributions.

Example:

“Meet [Patient’s Name]—since joining our practice, they’ve transformed their smile with [treatment]! We’re grateful to be part of their journey, and we’re so proud of their commitment to oral health. Thank you, [Patient’s Name], for trusting us!”.

Building stronger patient relationships is about showing appreciation and genuinely caring for their well-being. By personalizing your communication, offering small tokens of gratitude, and celebrating patients’ successes, you can foster a supportive, trust-based environment that enhances both patient loyalty and satisfaction. This Thanksgiving, take a moment to thank your patients and let them know how much they mean to your practice. When patients feel valued, it creates a ripple effect that enhances every aspect of your practice—from positive word-of-mouth referrals to a welcoming, patient-centered atmosphere.


Connect with me to collaborate on more patient-building ideas.

Visit Communicate With Influence for more information.

Thriving in a Crowded Marketplace: 12 Dental Video Marketing Tips

In today’s competitive dental marketplace, standing out can be a daunting task. However, with the power of dental video marketing, practices can make a unique and lasting impression, particularly with Gen X and younger audiences. Patients seeking both routine and complex procedures are looking for a dental practice they can trust and feel connected to. Dental video marketing offers a dynamic way to showcase your expertise, highlight patient testimonials, and reveal the human side of your practice, ultimately establishing you as a trusted advisor. Here’s a closer look at how you can leverage dental video marketing to captivate your audience and boost your practice.

Dental video marketing is an incredibly effective tool for dental practices. It allows you to engage with your audience in a more personal and memorable way compared to traditional marketing methods. Videos are more likely to be shared on social media, which increases your reach and visibility. Moreover, they cater to the preferences of Gen X and younger patients who are more inclined to consume content in video format. Here are twelve impactful video marketing ideas to help your dental practice stand out and thrive.

1. New Patient Introduction

First impressions matter.

You don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression. According to Positive Psychology people make an immediate and lasting assessment of you in the time it takes to snap your fingers or blink your eyes.

We spend the rest of our time finding evidence to prove our original impression of that person. Whether it’s true or not.

Creating a welcome video for new patients can help ease their nerves and make them feel more comfortable before their first visit. Introduce them to the practice, outline what they can expect during their appointment, and provide any important information they need to know.

2. Office Tour

A virtual tour of your office is a great way to showcase your facilities and create a sense of familiarity for new and prospective patients. Highlight the different areas of your practice, including the waiting room, treatment rooms, and any special equipment or amenities you offer.

3. Follow-Up Videos

Following up with patients after their appointments or procedures shows that you care about their well-being. A personalized video message can reinforce post-treatment instructions, offer additional tips for care, and remind patients that you are available for any further questions or concerns.

4. Thank You Videos

Expressing gratitude goes a long way in building strong patient relationships. Send personalized thank you videos to patients after their appointments, thanking them for their trust and choosing your practice for their dental care needs.

5. Referral Request

Word of mouth is a powerful tool in attracting new patients. Encourage satisfied patients to refer friends and family to your practice through engaging referral request videos. Highlight any referral programs or incentives you offer to make it even more appealing.

6. Review Request

Positive reviews can significantly impact your practice’s reputation and attract new patients. Requesting reviews through a video can be more engaging and effective than a standard email. Show appreciation for their feedback and explain how it helps you improve your services.

7. Patient Testimonials

Nothing speaks louder than a satisfied patient’s testimonial. Showcase these stories in your video marketing to build credibility and trust. Potential patients are more likely to choose your practice when they see real people sharing positive experiences.

8. Referral Testimonials

In addition to patient testimonials, highlight testimonials from referring doctors or specialists. These endorsements can add an extra layer of credibility and demonstrate the professional relationships your practice has built.

9. Product Recommendations

Patients often look to their dentists for advice on the best dental products to use. Create videos that recommend dental products, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Offer tips on proper usage and explain the benefits of each product. Include mentioning special pricing for any products you have available to patients.

10. Before and After Showcases

Visual proof of your expertise can be incredibly persuasive. Showcase before and after results of various treatments, such as teeth whitening, orthodontics, or cosmetic dentistry. Ensure you have patient consent and respect their privacy in these videos.

11. Team Spotlight

Introduce your team members to create a personal connection with your audience. Highlight their qualifications, roles within the practice, and a bit about their personalities. This helps humanize your practice and makes patients feel more at ease.

12. Discuss Trends

Stay relevant by discussing current trends in dental care. Whether it’s the latest in dental technology, new treatment methods, or oral health tips, sharing this information positions you as an expert and keeps your audience informed.

Implementing these twelve video marketing ideas can help your dental practice stand out in a crowded marketplace. By showcasing your expertise, building trust through patient testimonials, and highlighting the human side of your practice, you can create lasting connections with your patients. Embrace the power of video marketing to enhance your practice’s visibility, credibility, and patient engagement.


Connect with me to collaborate on making your practice memorable through effective video marketing strategies.

Create an Effective One Sheet to Increase Practice Referrals

A One Sheet is a powerful marketing tool for any dental practice, serving as a concise and visually appealing overview of what you offer and why referral partners should choose you. Craft a One Sheet that not only highlights the unique aspects of your practice and providers but also effectively attracts your ideal patients. Make it easy for practices to refer to you.

The layout should be clean and engaging. Use professional graphics, your practice’s color scheme, and high-quality images of your team and office. A One Sheet should not only inform but invite referring practices to visually understand the atmosphere and professionalism of your business.

Begin by showcasing the areas of expertise that distinguish your practice from others. This could be advanced technology you use, specialized services like cosmetic dentistry or orthodontic care, or a unique approach to patient comfort. It’s important to clearly articulate these strengths to resonate with referring offices so they can identify who would benefit from seeing you.

Include notable achievements, certifications, or accolades that your providers have received. This could range from community awards, special certifications in dental specialties, or even high ratings on review sites. Achievements help build trust and credibility with prospective referring offices. As a provider, spotlight one or two standout abilities that set you apart from the competition.

The backside of your One Sheet should focus on your ideal patient. Who benefits most from your services? Specify what type of patients you are looking for based on your practice’s expertise and patient care philosophy. This ensures referrals align well with both practices, leading to improved quality and quantity. For example, if you specialize in pediatric dentistry, your ideal patients are children and their care providers. Describe the characteristics of these patients to ensure that your message reaches the right audience

Testimonials are a powerful tool for building trust and appealing directly to potential referring offices. Choose testimonials that speak to the strengths and benefits in your One Sheet. This not only adds authenticity to your claims but also personalizes the experience for prospective referrals

Examine your business reviews, using AI, and pick three standout comments, especially those that highlight what patients love about your service. This might include your friendly staff, your efficient procedures, or your state-of-the-art facilities. These reviews should reflect the sentiments that are important to your current patients.

Transform these positive comments into an eye-catching infographic. This visual should be easy to read and attractively designed, featuring quotes with star ratings. Place this infographic prominently on your One Sheet to catch the eye of prospective referral practices.

The final product should be a compelling One Sheet that serves as both a promotional and informational tool for your practice. It should effectively communicate the unique qualities of your practice, directly reveal your ideal patient, and leverage positive feedback to attract new referrals. By following this structured approach, your practice can enhance its visibility, attract more ideal patients, and grow in a competitive market.

Once created, distribute the One Sheet to your existing and potential referring practices, on your website, and through social media channels. The goal is to make sure that whenever someone thinks of a specific dental service, your practice comes to mind first.

If you are interested in crafting a practice one-sheet for boosting referrals.

Harmony by Design: How Dental Champions Forge Team Success

My husband and I finished assembling a particularly challenging family puzzle created from our 2023 holiday photos. The puzzle was difficult due to the duplication of images featuring everyone in identical positions, clothing, and colors. However, the real challenge arose when we discovered a missing piece in the upper left photo! Unwilling to accept an incomplete puzzle, we took matters into our own hands. Using cardboard from the puzzle box, we fashioned a replacement piece and meticulously recreated the image using colored sharpies. Finally, with the addition of our makeshift piece, the family “portrait” was complete, and harmony restored.

Harmony in dentistry is by design. Within the bustling environment of dental practices, there exists a team of unsung heroes whose collective efforts are the backbone of every successful practice. Each person plays a crucial role in the puzzle to deliver exceptional care to patients while ensuring the smooth functioning of the practice.

Dentists

The leaders of the dental team, responsible for diagnosing and treating dental conditions while ensuring the overall health of patients. They perform complex procedures ranging from routine check-ups to intricate restorative work, surgeries, and beyond. Their leadership extends beyond the operatory. Dentists contribute to cultivating a supportive team environment, fostering collaboration and professional growth among their colleagues.

Dental Assistants

Dental assistants are the silent superheroes, providing invaluable balance and support to team members throughout the day. They do it all, from preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting chairside and ensuring patient comfort. Their meticulous attention to detail and swift actions are essential for efficient days. Beyond their multi-tasking technical skills, they serve as a comforting presence for patients and team members.

Dental Hygienists

Dental hygienists are the guardians of oral health, performing vital preventive and therapeutic procedures. From thorough screenings to patient education, they ensure optimal oral and systemic health. Their expertise in identifying early signs of diseases empowers patients to prioritize dental wellness. In the practice building department, their contributions are invaluable.

Office Managers and Administrators

Office administrators are the behind-the-scenes maestros, managing the day-to-day tasks that keep the practice running smoothly. From scheduling appointments and coordinating patient records to managing billing and insurance claims, their organizational prowess ensures efficient practice operations.
Their friendly demeanor and adept communication skills contribute to a positive patient experience, from booking to departure.

Harmony by Design

In the face of emergencies, this collective effort shines even brighter. Whether it’s a dental emergency or a team member missing for the day, the quick thinking and coordinated actions are essential for effective resolution. Their ability to remain calm under pressure and work together seamlessly ensures the best possible experience for patients and the practice alike.

Conclusion

Dental practices are powered by the collective efforts of the team. Their collaboration and dedication are the driving force behind every successful patient interaction and practice operation. As we celebrate the silent superheroes of dentistry, let’s recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of each member forging practice success.

It’s time to shine a spotlight on these unseen champions and acknowledge the invaluable role they play in harmonizing the world of dentistry.

Connect with me if you’re interested in scheduling or discussing:

Enhancing Referral Networks: A Generational Approach

Remember the joy of opening a pristine box of colored pencils as a child? Each pencil, vibrant and uniform, offered endless possibilities for creativity.

Similar to the way those pencils elevated our coloring adventures, incorporating tailored generational strategies can have a beneficial effect on referral sources, providing unique and memorable avenues to explore new referral opportunities.

We are all immigrants to other generations’ cultural territories. Each generation brings unique experiences, values, and traditions. Adapting communication styles to meet generational expectations builds stronger relationships and trust.

As we navigate the landscape of generational categories, it’s essential to recognize the diverse perspectives and communication preferences each group embodies. Baby boomers may appreciate direct and formal communication, while millennials and Gen Z might prefer informal and technology-driven interactions. By understanding and respecting these differences, dental practices can effectively tailor their outreach efforts to resonate with each generation.

Changing demographics within the dental profession also influences referral dynamics. Understanding these shifts is crucial for nurturing referral communities and adapting marketing strategies accordingly.

In 2022, the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) reported that 50.5% of dental school first-year students were female. This demographic trend is reshaping the dynamics of dental practices, with many women opting for part-time roles, especially after starting a family. Additionally, there is a growing preference among younger dentists, particularly millennials (Gen Y) and Gen Z, to forgo solo practices in favor of collaborative models. These changes influence the way referrals are managed and highlight the importance of adapting referral marketing strategies to accommodate evolving provider demographics.

A blended marketing effort, combining passive and active marketing strategies, yields the best results in establishing and maintaining a successful referral program.

Passive marketing efforts serve as subtle reminders of a practice’s presence and expertise. Branded gifts, delivered by a third party keep the practice top-of-mind among referral sources. Additionally, informative blogs can showcase the practice’s knowledge and capabilities, positioning it as a trusted authority in the field.

Active marketing strategies, such as face-to-face meetings and personalized presentations, facilitate deeper connections with referral partners. These interactions allow for meaningful dialogue and the opportunity to align services with the specific needs and preferences of each referral source. By sharing insights into the practice’s ideal patient profile and unique offerings, practices can effectively communicate their value proposition and foster stronger referral relationships.

In today’s competitive landscape, it’s essential for practices to differentiate themselves by identifying and leveraging their unique strengths or “superpowers.” Rather than attempting to be a jack-of-all-trades, practices should focus on defining their niche and becoming known as experts in a particular area of care.

Identifying a practice’s superpower involves introspection and an honest assessment of its strengths, weaknesses, and areas of expertise.

Whether it’s a specialized treatment modality, innovative technology, or exceptional patient experience, every practice has something that sets it apart from the competition. By defining and marketing this superpower effectively, practices can attract patients and referrals who are precisely seeking the services they excel at providing.

Taking active marketing efforts one step further by developing tailored presentations for referring offices and potential referral sources. These presentations provide an opportunity to showcase the practice’s expertise and educate referral partners about specific treatment modalities or services. By delivering targeted presentations focused on areas of mutual interest or need, practices can deepen their relationships with referral sources and increase the likelihood of receiving quality referrals.

For example, a periodontist may develop a presentation on grafting procedures and their benefits for patients. By collaborating with referring offices to better educate them about these procedures, the periodontist can increase awareness and referrals for this specialized service. Additionally, personalized presentations allow practices to highlight their brand culture and ideal client profile, reinforcing their value proposition and differentiating themselves from competitors.

In recent years, there has been a decline in the membership of traditional dental study clubs and associations. This trend is indicative of broader demographic shifts within the dental profession, with younger generations assuming leadership roles as baby boomers retire. To remain relevant and attractive to a diverse membership base, study clubs and associations must adapt their offerings and event formats to align with generational preferences and demographic trends.

By diversifying event agendas and incorporating elements such as recorded live and virtual sessions, expert panels, and interactive workshops, study clubs and associations can appeal to a broader audience and provide greater value to their members. Offering flexible scheduling options, such as breakfast or lunch meetings instead of evening events, accommodates the busy schedules of modern dental professionals and enhances accessibility.

By embracing generational diversity, adapting marketing strategies, and varying meeting formats, practices can cultivate meaningful connections with referral partners. Implementing action plans such as identifying practice superpowers and drafting inclusive event calendars empowers practices to thrive in an evolving dental community. Let’s embrace these strategies to enhance our referral networks and foster continued growth and success in an evolving dental landscape. Connect with me if you’re interested in strategizing ideas for crafting your practice’s unique selling proposition one-sheet or boosting your association/study club attendance and membership.

What Happened to Your Referrals?

How to Increase Your Study Club / Association Membership and Get More Referrals!

Dentistry is in transition and the status quo is unsustainable.

The changing nature of dental patients and their providers, along with altering patterns of demographics are significantly impacting the ways we practice and our membership dynamics.

Proactively setting a new strategy will influence your referral potential.

To get clear picture of the industry challenges, let’s reveal several of the current dynamics that are occurring.

Aging population

As dental problems begin to escalate, many of our patients are retiring and losing their dental benefits.

  • Traditionalist and Baby Boomer (BB) patient pool is shrinking, which means less patients to refer
  • Less frequent appointments in these categories as well

Association/ Study Club Impact

As dentist retire, so do the leaders of the traditional associations and study clubs.

If we ignore the shifting landscape, the future of our study clubs will be unpredictable and unsustainable. A succession plan is imperative for membership growth.

Diversity and Needs

According to a study conducted by the Hispanic Dental Association together with Proctor and Gamble, the Hispanic population is the fastest growing in the US.

  • 45% lack dental coverage and are dependent on community dental clinics

Consider the value of Spanish-speaking dental professionals and Spanish marketing materials.

  • Invite the Hispanic dental professionals to participate in your membership by speaking their language in your marketing

The other major ethnic shift taking place is with Asian‐Americans. They are >6% of the US population, affluent, well educated, and tech savvy.

  • 40% geographically concentrated: San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York

To broaden diversity in your membership, focus your marketing on this demographic if you practice in the concentrated areas.

Gen Z are entering the dental professional workforce. They are more likely to forgo solo practices for joint, group, or corporate practices. These types of practices often keep referrals in-house and provide study club environments.

More women in the field who are restructuring traditional dental practice patterns, with many working part time. This will influence the availability to attend traditional SC events. Consider adjusting your standard event agenda:

  • Offer childcare during meetings
  • Breakfast or lunch meetings
  • Record live and virtual events
  • Varied event lengths

Dental Insurance

The variety of dental insurance plans and payments are shifting and slowly evolving.

Commercial

Using highly selective networks

Demanding more evidence / data

Pressuring providers to reduce fees

Public

Demanding increased accountability from providers

Memberships – plans vary per state and are becoming more popular

Personal

Out of Pocket fee for service

Dental Tourism

Patients are traveling abroad to receive dental treatment at a reduced cost.  The four countries leading the movement are:  Mexico, Costa Rica, Eastern Europe and Asia.

  • The younger the generation, the more likely they are to investigate this option

To keep your dentistry in-house and have a larger referral pool, emphasize the safety / infection control standards in the U.S. Highlight that convenient follow up is included in the fee post procedurally. And of course, advertise your high standard of care and professionalism.

Continual adaptation to the new dynamics of dentistry will keep your practice, study club and association cutting edge. New members will be enthusiastic and loyal. The referrals will grow from the relationships you are building and nurturing.

Dental Relationships

iRONMAN Communication Increases Business Productivity

Lisa Copeland RDH, CSP
GLOBAL SPEAKER /  IRONMAN™COMPETITOR /GEN X

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iRONMAN Communication Tip

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Dental Drills

The “R” in iRONMAN is for Relationships.



According to Positive Psychology, people make an immediate and lasting assessment of you in the time it takes to snap your fingers.
Known as the two second rule, a first impression is a lasting impression! In dentistry, great first impressions are important when building relationships and brand loyalty with your patients and team.

The relationships you build with your patients are the cornerstone of your success. When   people like you, and feel emotionally connected to you, they are more likely to follow through with recommended treatment….which translates into practice growth. 

Have a look at my latest blog about dental relationships.

The other aspect of relationship building that contributes to your success is the education and training of your team.  Everyone should understand all of the procedures you are providing and be speaking the same language to each other and the patients. Consistency is critical to build trust.

Discover Lisa’s Seven iRONMAN communication principles here.

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Are You Getting to the Root of Your Problem?

If our patients are distracted or disengaged it’s up to us, the dental professional team, to break the patterns of expectations and re-engage them.
A friendly smile / greeting for every patient. We have all encountered the administrative assistant that knows every patient and their family members the moment they enter your office. They even remember vacation destinations, birthdays and graduations! You may be working with “that” person right now! Never let them go! They are an incredible asset to your practice.

Collaborate in your huddle, (you are having a huddle right?), with your team and identify ways to engage patients scheduled for the day. Be sure to use the “generational language” suited best for each patient. Brush up on generational language customization here.

When we are comfortable and conversation is easy, it puts the patient and the team at ease.

Upcoming events: graduation, wedding, family reunion, vacation, sports,…

Discuss a personal story

Share a family connection

Thank them for a referral

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Where in the World is Lisa

After living in Seattle for 20 years, my husband and I sold everything and moved to Park City, UT.  Our four criteria for selecting a new  location were: more sun, less traffic, abundant mountain biking, and awesome snow. Check, check, check, and check! It was a huge decision to make such a dramatic change to our comfortable life in Seattle. However, it was the right decision.  We are incredibly happy in our new home, making new friends, and taking on new adventures every week. 

It did not just happen.  It took a lot of hard teamwork, collaboration, sweat, tears, and weight gain too if I’m being honest, to make it a reality.

I’d like to challenge you to think about how dramatic change could impact your dental business.  The world around us is rapidly changing. If we continue to practice the same way we have, attrition will inevitably occur.  Human nature defers change. It’s: challenging, painful, and disruptive. 

What if change brought new ideas and increased productivity into your practice? 

A great place to start is with team building and customizing your internal and external communication. 

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Read Lisa’s Blog

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What Communication Challenges Do You Have?


What dental communication topics would you like to know more about?
Share your ideas here and we’ll include them in upcoming newsletters.


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ABOUT LISA COPELAND, RDH, CSP

IRONMAN™ training taught me how to be successful in business communication.
As a competitive athlete, I effectively apply lessons learned to help clients transform business communication into profit, performance, and productivity.

My experiences allow me to share meaningful / memorable stories that positively impact your bottom line. In fact, my iRONMAN Principles of training drive my lessons on the importance of generationally effective communication in business.

If you’d like to learn more about Lisa or book her to speak at your event please email or call / text 206.465.1637