A look at utilising networking for career development.
Being a part of a community is of great importance to many people. Surrounding yourself with a group of individuals that share ideologies or interests can allow for a great deal of self-development, and the growth of the community itself. Feeling supported and understood within a network can allow you to collaborate, advance skills and ideas, and revel in individual and collective successes.
Humans have an inherent need for community. This is why, generally speaking, it is useful for society to encourage intentional community settings, similar to the conditions in which we evolved. A network where individuals are able to form personal connections and develop intellectual relationships are a fantastic model incorporating attributes resembling the tribal way of living. Professional networks and intellectual communities often feature characteristics such as collective decision making, and shared work, which allows the whole group to benefit – fulfilling the fundamental need for community.
With regards to community in the dental profession, the support and teamwork which comes from this network are invaluable.
Collaboration in cosmetic dentistry
Networking within cosmetic dentistry can be extremely beneficial, making connections with experts in the field, with the possibility for mentoring, collaboration, and sharing of experiences. You can take advantage of opportunities to get in touch with more experienced cosmetic dentists. For example, if you are interested in dental implants, reach out to experts who are particularly experienced in implant placement and/or restoration. Take the time to engage with them, find out what techniques they use, what equipment they prefer, and perhaps even whether you may observe one of their cases. If they use social media to document cases and share results with the community, engage with their content and gather as much information about their process as possible.
Any observations you are able to make about a more experienced dentist’s work will be incredibly valuable to you whilst learning a new skill. Networking opens the door for the sharing of best practice and evidence-based principles, when individuals have the space to collaborate and discuss ideas, we can expect to see further innovation in the field.
The constantly changing environment may be daunting for those who feel isolated from the dental community. Many professionals will prioritise networking as a tool to avoid feeling excluded, or out of touch with developments in the profession. For example, there are always new developments in orthodontics, so being active within the orthodontic community means clinicians will be exposed to the latest techniques and products quicker than if they are not. Tapping into dental communities is an excellent resource, giving you access to an abundance of knowledge, and the ability to ask questions, share concerns and boost your career.
Build a community for better patient care
When you immerse yourself in your profession, investing time in collaborations and developing your skills, you, your practice, and your patients benefit. Connecting with like-minded individuals will enable you to discover new techniques and technology, and apply these to your practice. As you continue to develop your knowledge of cosmetic dentistry, you will learn new skills which meet the needs of your patients, with the support of a dental community whenever you need them.
This is a great opportunity to guide and enrich your continuing professional development (CPD). By staying in contact with other professionals, you will be able to get recommendations for courses or products from peers, attend their courses and seminars, and find training in new concepts as colleagues develop them. Being able to provide patients with high-quality care is always a dentist’s top priority, and continuously updating and reinforcing your education is the most effective way to maintain the highest standards.
Join the network
The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) comprises of a dynamic and active group of professionals including dentists and laboratory technicians, committed to creating aesthetic, functional and durable results for their patients. The BACD provides a space in which collaboration is encouraged and all members are able to seek help and advice on many aspects of cosmetic dentistry – creating a community in which individuals may share experiences and continue their professional education to stay up-to-date.
Consider networking as a tool for professional growth and a resource for gaining vital knowledge and experience by collaborating with, and learning from, like-minded professionals and experts in cosmetic dentistry.
For more information visit www.bacd.com
References are available on request.