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Most beginner acupuncturists start out working with an established practice to gain experience and build up a client base. Acupuncturist jobs are typically easier to find in larger metropolitan areas than in small towns. You may have to start with an apprenticeship or an internship to gain more experience to make yourself a desirable candidate for an independent practice. It's not easy to make a living as an acupuncturist, and if you want to survive in the business, then you have to remember that your clients are everything to you. You need to be polite, learn a little bit about them and remember the things they've told you on previous visits, to be friendly and approachable, and to make sure they feel comfortable coming to your office time after time.  After each visit, make sure your clients book a follow-up appointment right away. This will encourage them to keep coming. Call up your clients the day before their appointments. This will greatly reduce the rate of no-shows and will show them you care. You can also get referrals from your clients. Ask them if they have any friends who would be interested in your practice. This is a great way to get even more clients. If you want to succeed, you can't just stop with your license to be an acupuncturist. You should take night classes at a community college or pursue another master's degree in a relevant field such as Acupuncture Practice Management, Marketing, or Business Success Principles. Many practitioners get into trouble when they focus only on healing principles and techniques and don't think about the business end of things. If you really want to help your clients, then you have to gain skills to help you keep your business afloat. Attending any continuing education courses can give you valuable experience, even if they aren't business-related. Just as in any field of medicine, acupuncture treatments are constantly evolving. Pursue continuing training to learn new strategies, improve your techniques and keep your skills current. Your certification from NCCAOM will need renewal every four years. You will need to fill out a form, and document your participation in Professional Development Activities (PDA). You will need a minimum of 60 points worth of PDA to qualify for recertification. You should mail your application materials to the NCCAOM at least 60 days before your certification is due to lapse. To prepare for recertification, read the handbook posted on the Council's website. If you miss these deadlines, your status will be considered "Lapsed" or "Inactive," and require additional work to regain certification. Once you've gained some experience, understood the business side of things, and have developed a client base, you should consider starting your own acupuncture business. With your knowledge, you can become a business owner and have your clients follow you to your new practice. The more connections you have in the field, the better. If you know a few acupuncturists who would want to move to your business with you, you already have a leg up.
Get a job as an acupuncturist. Develop meaningful relationships with your clients. Continue your education. Maintain your certification. Consider starting your own business.