Advice from SLP Business Owner Annie Gist
What does it take to build your own private practice? After our interview with SLP Annie Gist, owner of Play on Words Pediatric Speech Therapy, we summarized some of her shared actions that have made Annie successful in her business pursuit.
Keeping an Open Mind:
Annie's journey began while she was staying home with her two little girls, transitioning from being an employee to needing to work for herself.
Starting with seeing kids in her neighborhood, Annie's passion for serving children and their families led her to establishing Play on Words.
Creating a Curious Environment:
Play on Words is housed in an old home, providing a unique and stimulating environment for kids, fostering endless language opportunities.
Annie's deliberate choice in location and ambiance reflects her commitment to creating a space that sparks curiosity and engagement.
Building a Passionate Team:
Annie's passion extends beyond therapy sessions to cultivating a team of happy and fulfilled therapists.
She shares her process for hiring therapists, emphasizing the importance of finding the right fit through a thorough interview process.
Fostering Team Connection:
Annie prioritizes team cohesion by organizing team lunches and closing the office during lunch hours, fostering a close-knit environment.
Her focus on team well-being contributes to a positive workplace culture and enhances client experience.
Navigating Business Decisions:
Annie discusses her decision-making process regarding insurance participation, emphasizing the importance of streamlining processes through partnerships, such as working with a credentialing company.
Hiring Support Staff:
Annie acknowledges the vital role of her admin team, consisting of a receptionist and front office manager, in ensuring the smooth operation of her practice.
Inspiration and Practical Tips:
Annie's journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring practice owners, offering practical tips and insights gained from her experience.
Listeners can expect to be both informed and uplifted by Annie's kind, focused, and knowledgeable demeanor.
Annie Gist's journey from speech therapist to private practice owner is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Through her commitment to serving children and families, cultivating a passionate team, and making strategic business decisions, Annie has created a thriving practice that positively impacts her community. Tune in to the podcast for more practical tips and inspiration to pursue your dreams!
