How to Build a Professional Network as a Physician

There is an old adage that in order to have a successful medical practice, you need to exhibit “the 3 A’s: Availability, Affability, and Ability.” Whether at your first job out of training or establishing yourself in a new location, these same three pillars will help you build a network of professional colleagues. Later, I will also introduce a fourth “A” that can also be added for modern times.

Availability

Availability is the first pillar in establishing a professional network. This is the number one trait you should display to your colleagues. A physician who is hard to get a hold of will soon be ignored by their peers and referral base. You should be timely and responsive to all messages and calls from other physicians.

When I am seeing patients in clinic, I always remind my assistants that, as much as possible, I will take any phone calls from any other provider. I consider it professional courtesy, and most patients do not seem to mind being interrupted if you briefly explain that your actions are of a clinical nature. If I am in surgery, I ask the OR nurse to answer my calls and relay a brief summary to me. Then, we can let the caller know that I am attentive to their case even if I cannot directly address them at that moment.

Whether you are a specialist or a referrer, do your best to be available to discuss a mutual case when you are asked. Providers generally know who they can rely on, and those are the ones to whom they will send business.

Although you may need to occasionally accept walk-ins, availability does not mean you have to say yes to everything. Nor does it mean you must be on-call to the point of burnout. Rather, availability is a reflection of how reliable you are to your colleagues, setting both priorities and boundaries. Be open to physicians who want to pick your brain on cases. Your availability will naturally develop your network.

Affability

Affability is the second pillar in building your network of peers. Affability means you should be approachable. Other physicians should feel comfortable talking to you. Giving your cellphone number to every physician you meet is good place to start. Treat your colleagues with respect and humility when going over cases. You can discuss confidently without being arrogant or condescending. As a specialist, don’t patronize another colleague who may not quite understand what you are explaining. As a referrer, do not assume that the consultant interprets the patient’s findings the same way you do. Physicians are more willing to cooperate with an affable colleague versus dealing with an unpleasant one.

Affability also means being a credible practice partner and hospital physician. No one wants to work with a complaining malcontent. Pick your battles cautiously and judiciously. Try to foster a team atmosphere. Show respect to all member of your network.

Another way to show affability is to be engaging at conferences, whether it is the local medical society, or a national association, or even virtual. Take advantage of the opportunity to put your name in front of a large group of colleagues with questions, comments, or feedback during meetings. These gatherings offer opportunities to exchange ideas and build relationships with like-minded professionals. Allow your colleagues to put a face to your name and position. Some individual physicians may find networking in these settings uncomfortable, so you may need to enlist the assistance of a mentor or other colleague for introductions.

Ability

The trait we spend the most time on during training is the last of the three pillars useful in establishing a network of professional peers. Although a good reputation may take many years to develop during practice, I have found that the physicians I remember the most are the ones who demonstrate thoroughness and quality in their work. Strive to be the physician that others will call first for your level of expertise. Document and communicate well with other providers. These traits are easy to recognize by other colleagues.

A reliable physician demonstrates competent skills, but they also recognize their limits. Stay current on evidence and techniques. Be humble, and seek assistance from your network when warranted. Another way some doctors grow their network is by being involved with teaching, research, or committees. Competent physicians can create strong connections by acting as preceptors or mentors to younger professionals. Expert physicians might collaborate with other researchers or produce their own research projects. Serving on  committees with a medical society or with a hospital helps physicians connect with other influential professionals.

Let’s add a “Fourth A”?

I suggest another contemporary pillar to add as a fourth “A” to build your professional network. That is Alternative Media, such as social media and online platforms. Social media sites like LinkedIn, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter) can be powerful tools to introduce yourself, discuss professional topics, and share expertise. Senior physicians should recognize that younger physicians are already using social media in numerous ways professionally (not just personally). Further, you might engage in “shop talk” with your specialty society online through webinars and discussion chats. In fact, professional networking has exploded with alternative media. If you are not comfortable with social media, I recommend that you start slowly, but don’t overlook these platforms to enhance your network.

Conclusion

Establishing a network of professional colleagues is crucial for all physicians. Your professional network will be comprised of your referral base, your specialty colleagues, and even nurses and administrators that can help you become a better physician. Your network will remember someone who is available, affable, and able. Nowadays, alternative media is an additional source to establish your network. Do not pass up the opportunity to meet new colleagues.

**Editor's Note: For more resources, check out our other articles on professional networking.**