Are you thriving or struggling?

Business coach Amy Gordon offers advice to clinic owners, whether business is good or bad

Overthe past year, we’ve seen a growing divide among clinic owners: some are thriving, while others are struggling. This widening gap can be attributed to rising costs, recruitment challenges, clinic closures, and the lack of a strong long-term strategy. While some of you are feeling the pinch more than ever, others find their businesses busier than they’ve ever been.

Here are some insights I wanted to share:

ARE YOU STRUGGLING?

For those of you finding it difficult right now, you’re likely facing:

• Cash flow challenges: Managing every penny coming in and going out

• Unprofitable but loyal staff: Struggling to balance loyalty and profitability

• Tough recruitment situations: Difficulty finding new team members

• Team dynamics issues: A generally difficult team environment

• Lack of new patients: Difficulty attracting new customers

• Ineffective marketing: Campaigns that aren’t delivering results

• Decreased patient frequency: Clients spacing out their visits more than before.

The main issue for struggling clinics is the impact on the owner’s mindset. It’s tough to walk into the clinic each day with the pressure of solving all these problems, especially when you see gaps in your schedule and a declining team culture due to a sole focus on numbers.

ARE YOU THRIVING?

On the other hand, some clinic owners are experiencing unprecedented success although that equally does not come without its issues:

• High patient volume: More clients than ever through the doors

• Efficient team: A well-functioning, effective team

• High numbers: Increased revenues and new client acquisitions

• Handling multiple tasks: Constantly putting out fires

• Work-life imbalance: Personal life may suffer due to business demands

• Inefficient managers: Managers who could improve their efficiency

• Lack of direction: Uncertainty about the next steps

• Overwhelmed systems: Systems breaking down under the strain of business

• Staff communication issues: Staff feeling let down due to poor communication and lack of clear commission structures

• Missed growth opportunities: Limited time to develop longterm strategies.

Thriving clinic owners often find themselves overwhelmed by day-to-day operations, which can hinder their potential for greater growth. Success can lead to burnout if sustained without balance.

SO, NOW WHAT?

Every problem has a solution. When you’re deep in the middle of these issues, it can be hard to see the way out.

Acknowledge your achievements: Whether you’re struggling or thriving, you’ve built a business. Celebrate that. Now, let’s strategise to steer it in the direction you want for the future.

Focus on your lane: Stop comparing yourself to others. Concentrate on your own time, goals, and strategy. Whether you aim to close, downsize, or expand your clinic, there is a strategy. It will take time and dedication to implement, but it will bring balance to your business.

A successful business is built on a strong structure and effective systems. These allow you, the owner, to focus on further development. Even if you plan to leave the business, consider your next steps.

I believe every owner has resources. List them and work on them. Remember, economic downturns are waves to ride out, just as success can be long-term if you protect what you’re building now.

Whatever your situation, get in touch by emailing me on amy@thedelforgegroup.co.uk. An audit can offer a fresh perspective on your business and help you manage it more effectively.