One of the most important things about starting a business is getting to know who you are and what you are made of. To get started, we'll be talking about some of the ways that you can ask yourself questions to better evaluate your values and philosophy.

Knowing your philosophy

The first question you should be asking yourself is, “What makes my practice different?” The field of dietetics is booming and dietitians in private practice are becoming more common especially as more states are seeing reimbursement opportunities. This increase in entrepreneurship has provided a whole new outlook on private practice and is allowing dietitians to do new and exciting things.

For example, I knew from the beginning that I wanted my practice to be perceived as more than plastic food models and a dietitian in a white coat. This was my opportunity to raise the bar and make my coming to my office something inspiring for people. I always say my job isn’t to tell people what to eat, it’s to help them identify their barriers and how to get around them. This is what makes my practice different. Here are a few of my tips for making your practice stand out.

1. Always be authentic

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and do something different from everyone else. People can tell when you have an authentic presence.

Being different is what gives you a competitive edge. Although we collaborate and help each other as dietitians, your authenticity is what will create your niche or make you stand out.
Your work will feel more natural and not forced if it is authentic.

2. Evaluate and have a firm understanding of what are your nutrition philosophies are

Your philosophies can evolve over time just as nutrition information evolves over time, but it is important for your clients to know what you believe and why it is important to you.
Even if you aren’t 100% sure what your niche will be, start taking action anyway. Clarity comes in taking action.
Your ultimate goal is to build your “ideal clientele” and identifying exactly what your philosophies are will help you achieve this.
You will attract people who either agree with what you are passionate about or who are intrigued by it.
Once you know what you are most passionate about you can use this to drive the success of your business. You may be most passionate about something that has impacted your life or an experience you have dealt with.
One way to identify what you are most passionate about is to remember how energized you are in your most successful client or patient sessions.