20160328065249-shutterstock-387029653 Networking Not Your Thing? 5 Physical Therapy Events that May Change Your Mind

Let’s be honest, the word “networking” can be pretty intimidating, even to the most charming person. For most an uppity black tie event, forced conversation, and a room filled with fake smiles come to mind when they hear “networking”. Oh, and let’s not forget the awkward exchange at the end of every convo where you have to swap business cards. When you think of networking like this, it can definitely be a turnoff; however, it’s a trivial part of success. Believe it or not, everyone needs a hand-up when climbing the ladder to success and not networking events don’t have have to be stuffy.

For instance, conferences are a great pressure-free way to network and you get to travel! Often times, conferences hold panels with field experts and a social mixer afterward, this way you can start a conversation naturally and use the panel topics as a conversation-starter. “What did you think of _____views on technology and physical therapy?” and you go from there. A lot of times these conferences last multiple days, this way you have more time to build a report with your peers and even create new bonds that can last well after the conference. Now that we’ve tackled the scary part of networking, here’s a list of physical therapy conferences that you should check out. Get out and make those connections!

Physical Therapy Conferences:

Ascend
Date: TBD

Location: TBD

Ascend is a two-day conference dedicated to helping PTs and OTs become better in business. At this event, you’ll earn up to nine CEUs, network with industry professionals, and learn how to take your business to the next level with guidance from the rehab therapy industry’s best and brightest leaders. More specifically, you’ll learn about digital marketing, company culture, regulatory changes, billing best practices, and other topics.

CPTA
09/16/17-09/17/17

San Diego, CA
Every year, more than 1,000 PTs and PTAs gather at the California Physical Therapy Association’s annual conference to exchange business best practices and establish new strategies for elevating the entire profession. This conference also offers networking opportunities and special events. Speaker topics include:
movement retraining,
running dystonia,
use of neuroimaging,
movement dysfunction during cycling,
3D printing, dosing for children with CP,
use of virtual reality, and
payment reform.

PPS
11/01/17-11/04/17

Chicago
PPS is an annual conference for private practice business owners. This year, attendees can earn up to 1.45 CEUs and learn about topics like physical therapy payment updates, human resources, business operations, and compliance. Keynote speakers include:
Paul Begala, CNN
Mike Murphy, NBC

 

NSC
10/19/17-10/21/17

Portland,Oregon

Are you a DPT student looking for a conference made specifically for you? Well, you’re in luck: the APTA’s National Student Conclave offers students the opportunity to network with their peers and mentors while attending educational sessions designed to prepare them for a career in physical therapy.

 

SPTS TCC
11/30/17-12/2/17

Las Vegas, NV
The SPTS Team Concept Conference (TCC) is all about sports therapy. And this year, the Sports Physical Therapy Section is partnering with the the International Federation of Sports Physical Therapy (IFSPT) to produce an even bigger event. This three-day conference will kick off with a golf medicine symposium. Then, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on labs and other themed sessions. For more information, visit the SPTS website.