One word, one concept, but definitely not one size fits all.
Communication lies at the heart of almost everything we do, so much so that failures in processes are often attributed to ‘systems not talking to each other.’ Even in today’s digital age, the art of effective communication remains paramount. Ask any cross-section of society about the key to business success, and communication would undoubtedly rank near the top of their lists. However, the methods and techniques for effective communication vary widely, highlighting the absence of a one-size-fits-all solution.
Oliver Acton from Frank Taylor & Associates highlights how communication works both ways, stressing the need for team dialogue and listening. Successful practices prioritise two-way communication, fostering an environment conducive to the exchange of ideas and best practices. Actively listening and understanding different viewpoints fosters stronger connections within teams and practices.
In today’s digital landscape, the array of communication channels available is staggering and the need for effective communication is more pronounced than ever. Handwritten memos have given way to emails, texts, and instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp. Understanding your audience’s preferences and selecting the most effective communication channels is key. While email may suffice for internal communications, direct messaging platforms may be more suitable for reaching patients, ensuring messages are received and understood by all. Moreover, the importance of maintaining a strong presence on social media cannot be overstated. Good social media accounts can enhance brand visibility, facilitate direct engagement with customers, and serve as platforms for sharing valuable content and updates.
Despite the convenience of digital communication, two aspects remain irreplaceable: face-to-face conversations and clarity of message.
- Face-to-face interactions enable immediate feedback, eye contact, and the interpretation of body language—elements lacking in digital exchanges.
- Clarity is paramount regardless of the medium used. Messages must be concise, easily understandable, and free from ambiguity to achieve their intended objectives amidst the information overload of the digital age.
Ready to revolutionise your communication strategy?
Contact us today on 0330 088 1156 and we’ll introduce you to our colleagues at FTA Media who will be able to help and advise on your communication and social media strategy.
Remember, in the world of communication, one word, one concept, but definitely not one size fits all. Reach out now to unlock the power of effective communication!
Practice - West Country
Practice location: This well-established practice is in the suburb of a renowned city within a predominantly residential area and is within walking distance of many local amenities.
Practice type: This is a three-surgery mixed practice and is being sold to facilitate the retirement of the principal. It is being sold as leasehold with a new 20-year lease in place that is inside the Landlord & Tenants Act 1954.
Practice financials: The gross fee income from management information for the past 12 months is in the region of £750,000 per annum and is generated by a combination of NHS and Private, the NHS-GDS contract has a UDA rate in excess of £32 per UDA. The income is generated by the principal working four days a week, with two associates working a combined 7 days a week and a hygienist working a one day a week. They are supported by a part-time practice manager, two receptionists and five full-time dental nurse/receptionists.
Price achieved: A price of £937,500 was achieved which was in line with the asking price.
Agent's comments: The current principal has been wanting to release himself from the burden of practice ownership for several years and is now looking forward to enjoying clinical work and no admin. The buyers are looking forward to developing the private work within the practice whilst maintaining the NHS contract.
Number of people looking in the area: 895
Practice - Oxfordshire
Practice location: This practice is situated in an affluent market town in Oxfordshire and has been established for over 40 years. The practice is being sold to facilitate the retirement of the principal who has many plans for the future, none of which involve dentistry.
Practice type: This is a very well established two surgery, fully private practice that is being sold to reduce the responsibilities of the practice owner. The practice occupies the ground floor of a corner plot and is being sold as freehold, with two self-contained flats included in the purchase that are situated on the top floor.
Practice financials: The gross fee income from management information for the past 12 months is in the region of £250,000 per annum. The gross has been generated by the principal working four days a week and he is supported by two part-time receptionists and two part-time nurses.
Price achieved: A price of £1,045,000 was achieved which was in line with the asking price.
Agent's comments: This fully private practice has been purchased by an established practice owner who had been looking for a practice that offered significant opportunities for growth. With two surgeries, one of which has been underutilised and a brilliant reputation in the town, this practice totally fitted the bill.
Number of people looking in the area: 1,031
Practice - Herefordshire
Practice location: The practice is based in one of the largest towns in the region and has been established for 30 years. It is situated in a purpose-built property with car parking for several cars.
Practice type: This is a three surgery, predominantly private practice and is being sold as leasehold. The landlord is prepared to create a new 10-year lease inside the landlord and Tenants act 1954.
Practice financials: The gross fee income is in the region of £850,000 generated by 95% private income and 5% NHS-GDS contract with just over £32.00 per UDA. The income is generated by the principal working five days a week, four part-time associates working a combined 14 days a week, a hygienist working three days a week. The team are supported by a practice manager, two receptionists and two full-time and four part-time dental nurses.
Price achieved: A price of £660,000 was achieved which was slightly under the asking price.
Agent's comments: In contrast to the previous practice, this is an almost 100% NHS practice which is positive to see. The new owner has very much an eye on the future opportunity of NHS Dentistry and the belief that there will be significant improvements to the quality of working in this sector in the future.
Number of people looking in the area: 629
Practice - Avon
Practice location: This practice is situated in a picturesque and affluent area which maintains a very distinctive village feel, despite being within a couple of miles of a bustling city. The premises are a two storey previously residential property.
Practice type: This is a three surgery, fully private practice being sold as a freehold. It has been established for over 40 years and is being sold as a limited company.
Practice financials: The gross fee income from management information for the past 12 months is in the region of £430,000. The income has been generated by an associate working five days a week and a hygienist working 2 day a week. The team are supported by a full-time receptionist and three part-time nurses.
Price achieved: A price of £680,000 was achieved and was in line with the asking price.
Agent's comments: This practice has been associate-led for many years and the seller has known that it has been underutilised. The incoming principal plans on working at the practice and can see the opportunity for growth, particularly as there has been little marketing at the practice for many years.
Number of people looking in the area: 583
