How to Prepare for Private Practice as a Newbie with Jodie Sheraton

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, particularly in nutrition, the journey from clinician to successful entrepreneur is filled with both challenges and triumphs. Jodie Sheraton, a seasoned dietitian with over 16 years of experience, recently shared her inspiring story on the "How to Build a Profitable Nutrition Business" podcast. Her insights offer a roadmap for nutrition professionals aspiring to transition from traditional clinical roles into the dynamic realm of private practice and entrepreneurship.  

Starting with Passion  

Jodie's journey began with her dissatisfaction with the constraints of hospital work. This is certainly something I sympathise with. As a clinician, not being able to ride the entire journey with a client as they navigate their various health issues, can leave you unfulfilled. Despite the amazing work hospital dietitians do, their client success is when the patient is discharged. For the most part, this is where the hospital dietitian and patient relationship ends. In private practice, we are fortunate to share the journey with the client for much longer. This journey is what makes dietetics so rewarding. It was this frustration that led Jodie to establish Optimum Intake, a private practice that has grown impressively to include a team of 40 professionals. Optimum Intake, alongside her other ventures, Myrtle Oak and Elevated Dietetics, exemplifies how passion paired with a clear vision can manifest into substantial professional success.  

Identifying Gaps and Creating Opportunities:  

Jodie's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited by recognizing unmet needs within her community. Her decision to open a specialised eating disorder clinic stemmed from a lack of local resources, demonstrating the importance of responsive and community-focused business practices. This is a key takeaway for any new graduate dietitian reading this blog or listening to the podcast. What does your community need in the way of nutrition support? Is it being serviced, or could you do it better? Is there enough business in this need for you to survive? The answers to these questions will go a long way in determining your success. 

Valuing Continuous Professional Development:  

Throughout her career, Jodie has emphasized the significance of ongoing learning. Engaging in business coaching profoundly impacted her approach, allowing her to refine the systems and structures essential for business growth. This commitment to learning is something she now fosters through Elevated Dietetics, her business coaching service tailored specifically for dietitians. As dietitians, we value clinical professional development so much, and rightly so. Why is it then that we tend not to place that same emphasis on business PD? The reality of private practice is that when it comes to survival, business nous will trump clinical skills every time. 

Building Strong Relationships:  

Central to Jodie's philosophy is the focus on long-term client relationships and comprehensive support, which as mentioned, is particularly fulfilling in private practice. This approach not only enhances client satisfaction but also contributes to a sustainable business model. Speaking to Jodie it is clear that she is an authentic, caring person. My guess is this was less of a business strategy and more of her natural approach to human interaction. Clients pick up on this. The single greatest factor that influences client outcomes is the rapport you build with them. If you are not a people person and do not enjoy building relationships, then private practice may not be for you. Jodie’s demeanor is evidence of what it takes to build successful relationships with clients, which ultimately leads to business success. 

Leveraging Recognition and Awards:  

An often overlooked aspect of business success is participation in awards and recognitions. Jodie emphasises the importance of self-nomination in awards to highlight and validate the hard work and innovation within one’s business. This practice not only boosts morale but also enhances credibility and visibility in the industry. Yes, this is great for business, but something Jodie said really resonated with me; awards are a great way to highlight the amazing work your team is doing.  

Cultivating a Supportive Team Environment:  

Acknowledging that the success of a business is not a solo endeavor, Jodie credits her team for their part in her business achievements. Creating a positive workplace culture is vital for sustaining growth and ensuring employee satisfaction and loyalty. To be managing 40 staff is an amazing feat. This could not be done without having laid the foundations of a great workplace culture first.  

Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs  

Jodie’s experience underscores several critical lessons for dietitians transitioning to private practice:  

1. Embrace Risk with Strategic Planning: Starting a business involves inherent risks, but with strategic planning and a clear vision, these risks can lead to rewarding outcomes.  
2. Understand the Business Side of Practice: Clinicians often focus primarily on patient care, but understanding the business aspects, including financial management, marketing, and customer service, is equally important.  
3. Seek Mentorship and Networking: Engaging with mentors and building a professional network can provide invaluable support and guidance, helping to navigate the complexities of business management.  

Jodie’s journey from a hospital dietitian to a successful entrepreneur with multiple thriving practices is a testament to the potential within the field of nutrition. Her story provides not only inspiration but also practical advice for dietitians aiming to carve out their own paths in the competitive landscape of health and wellness.  

For those looking to delve deeper into these insights and learn from a seasoned expert, connecting with Jodie through her business, Elevated Dietetics, can provide the tools and mentorship necessary to transform passion into a profitable enterprise. As Jodie continues to expand her impact, she remains a beacon for proactive, aspiring nutrition professionals worldwide. 

If you'd like to connect with Jodie (and frankly you would be mad not to), simply connect with her on IG @elevated_dietetics, or go to her website www.elevateddietetics.com.au.