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Personal Takeaways from GORP 2019

Bentson_Copple_Associates_GORP_2019By: Mandy King
Client Support Associate

I had the opportunity to attend my first GORP (Graduate Orthodontic Residents Program) this year in St. Louis along with Shannon Patterson and Anthony Copple. Here are a few things I took away from time spent with our industry’s current orthodontic residents and other vendors.

Orthodontic residents are rock stars! They have a drive for success and a passion for their future. As they took time out of their schedules to stop at our booth, I was able to chat with several of them about their plans and where they see themselves after residency. Many have narrowed down a general location, some are open to going anywhere, and several want to find the opportunity that is the perfect fit. I think the one common denominator was that they are all so excited about the career path they have chosen and look forward to sharing that joy with their future patients.

GORP is a great time for residents to come together and celebrate their journey and where they are headed in their professional careers. They are all working hard to achieve the same goal, so for residents from all over the country to be in one location is incredible. Being able to sit back and observe them meeting one another, talking about residency, and simply having fun together was priceless. Several of the residents expressed to me that GORP is an event that they feel like every resident should attend. They are able to take a step back to breathe and relax for a few days, while still being immersed in learning about the path they have chosen.

I think I can speak for the majority of the vendors at the event when I say we were all there for one purpose – to get to know the next generation of orthodontists and to share our knowledge about the industry or products with them. There is just something about being able to meet people face-to-face that allows you to connect with them and understand who they are as individuals.

While GORP might be known as one big party, it is so much more than that for residents. It is a time for being refreshed. It is a time for learning about the industry and what they can expect once they begin their careers. It is a time that we as vendors can take to hang out with the residents we work closely with to form relationships that will better help us serve them.

Thank you all for a great first time at GORP and I look forward to seeing you all again in the future!

Bentson Copple & Associates Launches New Video Series

New Video Series Dr. Boomer & Dr. MillenniallBentson Copple & Associates is bringing years of orthodontic experience to its first digital video series, Dr. Boomer & Dr. Millennial: Generational Diversity, premiering on their YouTube channel. This series was created to help practices that have age-diverse groups of doctors and team members understand generational differences and offer fun inspiration as one works and leads their team.

It stars Chris Bentson as Dr. Boomer, who is based on Baby Boomer doctors born between 1946 and 1964. His character illustrates a generation known for having a strong work ethic, placing significant importance on professional accomplishments, and for being somewhat reserved from a social perspective. Playing opposite is Shannon Patterson, who stars as Dr. Millennial. Her character is based on the more typical characteristics of Millennial doctors who were born between 1981-1996. This group is viewed as confident, ambitious, achievement-oriented, and is known for being extremely tech-savvy. They additionally value teamwork and seek the input and affirmation of others.

This web series explores the diverse perspectives, attitudes, motivations, and needs of these two generations of doctors, along with the changing dynamics in an orthodontic practice setting. Tidbits of insight are presented regarding the differences between the generations by explaining the needs and expectations of an age-diverse workforce. By learning the motivations and generational footprint of each individual, doctors can leverage their own talents and capitalize on differences.

There are four generations in the orthodontic workforce. Shannon Patterson, Partner, CPR, CMSR, states, “I believe one of the challenges that practices face today is negotiating the differing behavior and values among doctors and team members who were born in different generations. The predominant groups I work with most are Baby Boomers and Millennials. These two generations grew up in different social and political eras that shaped their values and perspectives in the workplace. The reality is doctors of different generations view patient care differently.”

Chris Bentson, Partner, added, “Within each episode of the series, we’ll examine generational diversity in the orthodontic workplace, review some of the benefits and issues associated with it, and share some of the best practices based on our company’s experience.”

“This series offers a better understanding not only of hot button issues regarding orthodontic practice employment, associateship structure, and general practice/business leadership – but of how each generation addresses the issues based on experience and values,” said Laura Overcash, Director of Marketing. “We often take for granted what we believe is a ‘common’ understanding of everyday situations; however, it’s fascinating when you start putting age differences into perspective. While generational gaps may bring about some challenges for doctors, so long as there is a working, open relationship, age should be no barrier.”

To watch episode one of Bentson Copple & Associates’ Dr. Boomer & Dr. Millennial: Generational Diversity video series click here!

Why is Team Building Important for an Orthodontic Office?

By: Mandy King
For sixteen years, I had the privilege to work in a successful orthodontic practice. Our orthodontist always said that the reason for our success was due to teamwork, the way we interacted with the patients, and the efficient service we provided. He never boasted about the fact that he was well-known in our community as being the best around. You might be wondering what made us a good team?

Team Building
A team building event once a quarter is a great goal to strive towards. My favorite team building outing was cooking for parents and siblings at the Ronald McDonald House. This allowed us to work as a team to provide a meal for families in our area who had a child in the hospital. My friend and co-worker was a recipient of this program, so this was very special for us to be able to give back. An exciting outing we once went on was a high ropes course. This challenged us to help one another to complete the courses laid out before us. Whatever avenue you choose for a team building exercise, have fun and enjoy being out of the office for a change.

Working Together
We knew how to work together because we made it a point to support each other. There was no division between the “front and back.” The scheduling coordinators would do everything possible to make sure that the clinic could function efficiently and in turn, the clinical assistants communicated all day to ensure that everyone was staying on task and taking care of the patients. Our office averaged a hundred patients a day, so it was very important for us to be able to communicate and work together.

Loving One Another
Our team would go on a weekend retreat that we looked forward to every year. This retreat allowed us to focus on just spending quality time together and forming relationships out of the office. We were truly a “family.” When you love the people you work with, it makes doing your job a lot easier. Patients can sense whether the team gets along or not when they come into your office. That makes forming the bonds with one another all the more important. Although I am no longer a part of this team, the friendships I made during my time in that position have remained.


This article was featured in the October 2018 edition of The InSight, our monthly email published for orthodontic residents and doctors seeking practice opportunities. This monthly email provides news and information focused on the fast-changing orthodontic industry and its relation to current and future orthodontic careers, highlight commonly asked questions that are timely to the young orthodontic community, and provide a current list of available practice opportunities. Click here to sign up for the email. 

How Do You Determine Your Career Path After Orthodontic Residency?

By: Mandy King
You have taken that step in identifying a career that appeals to you, but deciding your next step may still be the missing piece of your puzzle. There are many factors you need to examine and decisions you need to make as you approach your final year. You should be asking yourself a few questions:

Where Do I Want to Live?
This is extremely important for those who have a family. Being in agreement about where you would like to practice is a decision that should be made with your spouse. Does the community culture align with your beliefs and values? Ask yourself if the area meets your interests and financial needs. Making sure you and your family will be “happy” is a key factor when deciding where you want to practice.

What Are My Short-Term and Long-Term Goals?
Making a career plan takes time and effort on your part. Commit to establishing your expectations and objectives as you seek an opportunity. Remember who you are and why you chose this career.

Do I Want to Practice as an Associate in a Private Practice?
Ask yourself if you desire mentorship from a senior doctor. Do you see yourself working with this potential employer? Do your personalities “mesh”? Make it a point to visit the practice and see if the culture is a good fit for you. Observe the interaction between the staff and the patients. Can you see yourself practicing in that environment?

Am I Willing to Work for a DSO?
If you are wanting to focus solely on orthodontics, corporate may be a better choice. In some cases, you can negotiate a schedule and salary that are guaranteed regardless of the organization’s ups and downs. As with a private practice, just be sure to find the right fit.

Would I Like an Equity-Minded Associateship Opportunity?
This is an opportunity to consider for an orthodontist that desires to own their own practice in the somewhat near future. You are able to come in as an associate and “get your feet wet” by getting to know the patients and learning about the ins and outs of the practice you would one day be a partner in. Understand that non-competes in most states will be required and are enforceable.

Should I Purchase a Practice?
Financially speaking, is this possible for you? This path does allow you the ability to control your own schedule and usually maximize income. However, the freedoms of having your own practice come with a price. As a small business owner, you have many responsibilities that come along with that title and there are many resources available for you to get help in these areas.

This is an important decision that simply comes down to making sure you stay true to yourself by seeking the best opportunity for you and your family. Know who you are, choose a location, identify the right practice, and begin your journey in confidence.


This article was featured in the September 2018 edition of The InSight, our monthly email published for orthodontic residents and doctors seeking practice opportunities. This monthly email provides news and information focused on the fast-changing orthodontic industry and its relation to current and future orthodontic careers, highlight commonly asked questions that are timely to the young orthodontic community, and provide a current list of available practice opportunities. Click here to sign up for the email. 

Is it Necessary to Market Your Orthodontic Practice on Social Media?

Social Media Marketing                                                                                    By:  Mandy King

In today’s society; the answer is most definitely YES! Social media is an opportunity to attract new patients, boost referrals, and build a loyal online patient base by actively interacting with your followers. Studies show it is no longer dominated by just the young; 80% of American adults are actively using it as well. Your return on investment is huge because sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube are free to use.

Relationship marketing through social media helps you focus on the people you are treating. This engagement will set you apart. Remember that the quality of the content you post is more important than the frequency. Social media needs to be carefully planned and executed by making your message consistent on all platforms your office may choose. A scheduling calendar is a great way to keep you organized.

The next step is selecting which social media platform is right for your practice. Facebook is by far the most preferred social media out there but don’t limit your strategy to it only. Keep in mind that each channel presents you with a unique promotional opportunity by updating them with fresh, relevant content.

Facebook will likely attract the majority of your target audience. A great way to promote your practice is by running paid advertising campaigns to attract new patients. Encourage your active patients to follow you on facebook. They will likely post positive reviews that will be seen by prospective patients visiting the site. Use facebook to introduce your team and practice culture. It is a great avenue to promote non-profit, local community initiatives you take part in as well. Think about making a clever use of #hashtags as people use them to search for specific content. Celebrate with your patients by taking pictures with them the day their braces are placed or removed. Creating an album of before and after photos will grab peoples attention! Organizing contests and giveaways will help spread your reach to your patients family and friends.

Twitter is the place to be for teenagers. The content on this social media platform has a short lifespan, so you have to be more active when sharing. Keep your tweets short and to the point with the latest orthodontic news or fun fact. Remember to include relevant #hashtags in your tweets as they could boost the visibility for a longer period of time.

Instagram and Pinterest are a great way to showcase images of your orthodontic practice and your team. Be creative by coming up with visually appealing content. Use these avenues as a way to share successful orthodontic cases. Creating stories on instagram by recording a short video could be fun for your staff and patients. Moms love Pinterest! This is an endless source of content for a variety of orthodontic tips, do’s and don’ts, and infographics about orthodontics. While creating your content for Instagram and Pinterest, gather fresh ideas and don’t forget to use your #hashtags.

MTV Meets Orthodontics

MTV Meetings Orthodontics - Bentson Copple & Associates
Bentson Copple & Associates are known within the industry as valuation, transition and recruiting specialists; however, over the last five years we accidentally became known for our annual holiday video. The holiday video is a hot topic that comes up in conversation throughout the year from clients, consultants, vendors and friends. There is an unspoken anticipation of how we’ll top the previous year’s video.

Let’s rewind for a moment. In 1992, I was in the second grade and was one of the cool kids because my parents allowed me to watch MTV. I was fascinated by music videos – these pieces of visual art were not only a way to promote the newest song by an artist, but back then, there was a story being told within every video. I will never forget the first time I saw Guns N Roses’ November Rain on MTV! It contained so many memorable elements: a symphony playing alongside a rock n’ roll performance, a wedding, two rainstorms, a funeral sequence and a swooping helicopter shot during the guitar solo. It was the most epic piece of cinematography I had ever seen! It was at that very moment I decided, at the age of 8, that I wanted to become a music video director.

Well…that career choice didn’t quite work out as planned, but video has always been in my blood (thanks Axl & Slash). In 2011, video marketing was starting to become a major influence, so I created a holiday greeting video for our company. The first Bentson Copple & Associates holiday video was a far cry from the extravagant November Rain performance. It was simple, it was generic and it wasn’t very memorable – but it was the beginning of something much larger, an annual tradition at the BC&A office.

In the fall of 2016, our team filmed the Holiday Carpool Karaoke video. It began with a four-page script, but as the cameras rolled, our team began to shine; our individual personalities broke through, we shared real laughs together and offered a glimpse into our office culture. The carpool video has come a long way from that first video of stock footage, one camera and less than two hours of editing. The 5:46 minute video was much more than meets the eye. Let’s break down the 2016 Holiday Video by the numbers:

  • 25 Hours of Editing
  • 12 Team Members
  • 10 Hours of Research
  • 7 Songs That Were Sung
  • 5 Cars Used
  • 4 Hours of Filming
  • 3 Script Re-writes
  • 3 GoPros
  • 3 CDs
  • 3 Hours of Recorded Video Footage
  • 2 Planning Meetings
  • 1 Handheld Video Camera
  • 1 Encounter with a Policeman
  • 1 Borrowed Santa Suit
  • 1 Trip to Target
  • 1 Burn Out
  • 1 Catered Lunch
  • Too Many Laughs to Count

As Director of Marketing, I’m blessed that the entire Bentson Copple & Associates team has always been receptive and willing to participate in the yearly holiday video shenanigans. There is always a bit of apprehension when the theme of the video is announced, but after a bit of persuasion, everyone eventually gets on board.

Yes, it’s only August – but you never know when inspiration may strike. My eyes are open, my ears are to the ground and the creative ideas are already flowing for the 2017 holiday video. We look forward to presenting the next holiday video, hearing your future feedback and stepping out from behind our desks for your entertainment pleasure.

-Laura Overcash, Director of Marketing

Good Old Fashioned Customer Service Is Alive

Good Old Fashioned Customer Service Is Alive
I went grocery shopping yesterday after work. Normally there is nothing special about doing that. We all do it; some of us enjoy it, and some of us – not so much. Yesterday, however, was a special grocery shopping day in that it was the grand opening of the new Publix grocery store in High Point, North Carolina, just down the street from our office.

I lived in Texas for many years, where there were no Publix stores, although the Texas giant H-E-B was considerably close. However, when my father retired, he and my mom moved to Tampa, Florida and I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time visiting with them the 20 years they lived there. During those visits, I went to Publix with my father on many occasions. It was always a positive, enjoyable experience.

Yesterday during my shopping experience, I saw firsthand what exceptional customer service is all about. Publix’s mission statement on the homepage of their website says it all, with the first bullet point being “Passionately focused on customer value”. Every job I have had since I was 16 years old has involved customer service. It is something important to me and something that I feel has sadly diminished rapidly throughout our country.

Upon entering the store I found it to be clean, beautiful and, of course, brand new. I was greeted at the door with welcomes and smiles – the kind of smiles that reflect genuine gratitude. There were associates at every turn down every aisle, ready to take care of any need. They were outgoing, smiling and all made direct eye contact that showed sincerity. I realize it was their grand opening and day-to-day operations will not include that much customer attention, but what an impression it made. This company obviously does a great job in recruiting and training its staff members. These staff members are also the owners of their company, as Publix is the largest employee-owned grocery chain in the U.S.

From asking the location of an item and being assisted by a knowledgeable associate, to the friendly girl who rang up my groceries, to the sweet young man who pushed my shopping cart to my car, it was a 10 out of 10 experience. I remember when assistance taking groceries to your car was normal. When this young man asked if I needed help taking the groceries to my car I replied with “no, I can handle it, thank you – his response was “but it would be my pleasure to assist you.” How do you say no to that? During our short walk he explained that he was 16, in high school and after much training, he was excited to actually be putting the training to good use. He seemed to be an exceptional young man and passionately focused on customer value. I love their mission statement!

Customer service is an attitude, not a department. No matter what industry, field or business you are in, this should hold true to all. People want to feel important and appreciated. That extra step taken to show that real care goes into how someone is treated is so very valuable. Whether you are selling clothing, flipping burgers or straightening teeth, people have choices. When you want them to choose you, you have to go above and beyond the usual steps to create something worth coming back for. I have three grocery stores very close to my office and home. Publix is a bit off my daily commute, but with the quality of products they offer, along with the atmosphere and culture that they have created in which to sell those products, I am eager to go back.

Orthodontists Give Happiness

Orthodontists Give HappinessThis editorial was written by Patrice Connor, Circulation Manager of the Bentson Clark reSource, and previously published on LinkedIn.


Money is an echo of value. – Bob Burg

I have enjoyed getting to know Bob through his books and podcasts. I have even had the pleasure of visiting with him on the phone. He is a great inspiration in many ways.

One podcast in particular, with Lisa McLeod discusses selling with noble purpose…noble purpose. I thought about that for days. Can I use the word “noble” to describe anything I do? NO! The first time I thought about it I actually laughed. Ha!

Then I thought some more. My thoughts ran from the industry, orthodontics, to our company, to my bosses, what we do, how much I admire them for their knowledge of this industry, for the way they do things, our clients (orthodontists), how hard we all work to improve the lives of these doctors during the most important times in their lives, how lucky I am to be a part of a company where its leaders use integrity in all things, my role in all of it, leading to our publication. Therein lies my task – to increase its distribution – but how? Noble, there’s that word again.

I have learned so much about orthodontists, the industry, and the education, what it takes just to attain this level of education. I have read some great articles on outstanding doctors and practices in orthodontics. Many of them do wonderful things to help so many in and out of their communities. They are creative, smart, family-oriented and of course, they love kids. Still thinking about my role in all of it.

What finally hit me is really what should have been on my mind first and foremost – my children – three girls to be exact. Two of them wore braces. My youngest it seems wore braces for her entire childhood, well actually from about 5th grade through her freshman year in high school. Her teeth were a mess. She is now 21, absolutely beautiful, with four years of college behind her and a teaching degree to be coming soon. She has an amazing smile. I will NEVER forget the day her braces came off. As I write about it and any time I think about it, I tear up. Every time. The glow of happiness, confidence and satisfaction that was in her face, all because she had an orthodontist. Noble! What a profession, to be able to give that to someone especially a child. What a gift. Yes, the gift giver is noble, as is this profession.

I can proudly say that what we have to offer is a tool to assist these doctors, these givers of happiness, in managing their practice. I can also proudly say it is the best in the industry. In any field, staying on top of trends and data is extremely important. We can help with that. Orthodontists create beauty and happiness. What a job! Our tool is an aid to help them do what they do. Maybe there is some nobility there after all.

To learn more about this tool, the Bentson Clark reSourceclick here!

We Are Thankful

We are reminded during the Thanksgiving season to be thankful and cherish the family and friends that are such a significant part of our lives. While we at Bentson Clark & Copple enjoy the Thanksgiving food and traditions that go with the holidays, we are very thankful for our families, clients, and co-workers.We would like to take a few moments to reflect back on these three groups.

1. We are thankful for our families. As in most endeavors, we spend a great deal of time at work and away from our families. Whether we are in the office, away with clients or attending meetings, our families at home are always on our minds. Each of us is so thankful for those that we live with and care for. Their love and support allows us to focus on our work. We are grateful for their health and safety throughout this year.

2. We are thankful for the opportunity to work with such great doctors. We are blessed to become part of the lives of doctors during the pivotal points within their orthodontic careers. We are able to work with orthodontic residents as they begin their practice journey and once again when doctors are ready to transition into a new chapter of their practice life. Those plans can be retirement, reducing the number of work days or bringing in a partner/associate to help manage the practice’s workload. These doctors become more like family members than clients during the months (or even years) that we work with them. We enjoy the opportunity to help them reach their goals, make their career dreams a reality, and educate them with the valuation or transition information needed to make educated decisions regarding these big choices.

3. We are thankful for the Bentson Clark & Copple team. We would not be able to function without each team member. Each individual brings different expertise, talents, and gifts to the business. This allows us to operate as a team, to grow and to focus solely on our clients and their individual needs. Each team member is dedicated to providing the best service for each and every client. We work hard, but we do our best to make our work fun.

Have a great Thanksgiving!

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