If you think “networking” is a dirty word, and the thought of mingling with other dental pros nearly makes you break out in hives, you’re not alone! Many dentists would rather do anything else than spend time at dental networking events.

If you’re one of them, though, you could be missing out on those all-important professional connections to help further your career. That’s why any dentist who takes their work seriously can’t afford to miss out on networking events.

Below, learn about the importance of dental networking and see what these events can do for you.

Networking Allows You to Mentor and Be Mentored

At dental networking events, you’ll often come across young professionals fresh out of dental school. These fledgling dentists are excited yet nervous as they enter the world of dental work.

Young dentists can benefit from mentors to help them learn the ropes. If your practice has the time, you may want to consider taking one or more of them under your wing.

Mentorship gives you a chance to share your knowledge and pass it on to a new generation of dentists. It’s not only helpful to young dentists; it’s rewarding for you, too.

Or perhaps you’re the one in need of a mentor. If you’re a recent grad, networking events can be a great place to find them.

Networking Helps You Build a Resource Pool with Others

Is there anything worse than running out of dental supplies in the middle of a busy day? If you’re on your own, you’d have to wait until the next shipment from your supplier.

On the other hand, if you have a robust network, you can tap into that to borrow supplies from your partners. Of course, you’ll want to return the favor if any of those partners are ever in need.

Dental networking events are chock-full of dentists who’d love to build a resource-sharing pool with your practice. Just start asking around to find them!

Networking Can Open Doors for Your Dental Career

If you’re a new grad, finding an opening at a good practice can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. You’ve spent hours, days, and even weeks scouring the job boards to no avail. You’ve sent your resume to dozens of practices but have yet to hear back from any of them. Now what?

Dental networking events are the answer! Unlike job boards, which are faceless and impersonal, networking events allow you to connect with real dentists in the flesh. The more of those connections you make, the bigger the chance a practice will discover your talented self.

Networking Enables You to Build Your Professional Reputation

How would you like to see your name in lights? Well, you’re a dentist, not an actor, so that’s not very likely. However, dental networking events allow you to build your reputation and become a celebrity in the dental world.

Are you involved in cool research? Does your practice use cutting-edge tech in a novel way? Dental networking events are the perfect place to share your achievements with others in the industry.

The more you share your story and accomplishments, your reputation will grow. You could attract the attention of high-profile practices, investors, and other must-know dental colleagues.

How To Network with Other Dental Professionals

If you have no idea where to find dental networking events, that’s understandable. These niche events can be difficult to locate if you don’t know where to look. Don’t worry, though; we’ve got you covered:

• Hang out on social media. Thanks to platforms like Facebook and Twitter, you don’t have to travel far to find other dentists eager to network. Plus, they may be able to clue you in on local networking events.
• Join dental organizations to stay up to date with hot trends in the industry. Organizations like the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry sometimes announce dental networking events.
• Stay in touch with people you met in dental school, including fellow students and professors. Both can be an excellent networking resource.

Expand Your Practice with Dental Intelligence

If you’re ready to take your practice to the next level, you can’t afford to miss out on dental networking events. To learn more about successful brand building with Dental Intelligence, request a demo of our software today.