Connecting with OTs

November 16, 2024
by Kimberly Rochin

Community Life Hacks

Let’s face it: occupational therapy is an incredible field that’s evolving and expanding daily. The beauty of OT lies in its versatility, allowing therapists to address patient needs at every life stage and in almost any environment. Yet, with so many specialties and settings, it’s hard not to feel a bit of F.O.M.O.

That’s where building connections comes in. Networking with other professionals in the OT community can open up insights that enrich our learning. I’ll share practical tips and strategies for connecting with professionals that worked best for me!

1. Do Your Homework
Before reaching out, take a few minutes to learn about the person. Knowing a bit about their background and interests shows that you’re genuinely interested and can help you connect more meaningfully. Some great platforms are LinkedIn, the individual’s affiliated organization (for example, clinics or hospitals), or even just a quick Google Search. You don’t need to know ALL the information about them; you can just bounce back from a few pointers.

2. Be Intentional
Make your outreach purposeful. Think about what you hope to gain from the connection (e.g., insight into a specific setting or advice on a skill), and communicate that. By practicing intentionality, you are respecting the recipient’s and your time!

3. Email/Point of Contact
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted email! A friendly, concise message can open doors to meaningful connections. Remember to introduce yourself and be clear about why you’re reaching out.

4. Be Okay with ‘No’ and Flexible with Schedules
Professionals are busy, so don’t be discouraged if someone can’t meet immediately. Respect their schedule and offer alternative times. Patience and flexibility go a long way in showing your appreciation for their time.

5. Scheduling
Offer specific times you’re available to make scheduling easier. Once you’ve confirmed, show up on time and bring prepared questions. If you’re juggling multiple meetings, use a scheduling tool to streamline the process. It keeps things organized and helps you avoid double-booking — showing that you value their time and your own. I use the “Appointment Schedule” feature on Google Calendar. Not only does it make scheduling easier, but I have also received several compliments about my organization!

6. The Meeting . . . OooOOoo
There’s no need to be nervous; just relax and enjoy the conversation! If you’re meeting virtually, ensure you’re in a distraction-free environment with reliable internet and present your best self. I find it helpful to jot down a few bullet points of topics I’d like to discuss; keeping them brief ensures the conversation feels natural (remember: it’s not an interview!).

If you’d like to take notes, let the professional know beforehand. This way, they understand you’re focused on the conversation and aren’t multitasking. Small steps like these can help create a comfortable environment for a productive meeting.

7. Follow Up with a Thank-You
Always follow up with a thank-you email or note. It’s a simple yet impactful gesture that reinforces your appreciation and can leave a lasting positive impression. If you would like to continue connecting, indicate that in the email.

8. Final Thoughts
While these tips have worked well for me, remember that each connection is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Building meaningful relationships in the OT community takes time, patience, and a willingness to adapt. Be open to learning from each experience, and don’t be afraid to try new approaches. So, go out there, make connections, and enjoy learning!

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