Chiropractic Associate Salary

Many of my Chiropractic clients ask me the question, what is a fair and reasonable salary for a new associate. Should I pay a percentage or a flat salary or a combination of both. This is a very important issue, as you do not want an associate who feels under compensated as this will lead to resentment and ultimately a bad relationship. Also the Owner does not want to pay too much. There needs to be a good balance. The owner needs to weigh how important it is to have the associate and the importance of keeping them long term. If the goal is to keep the associate long term, then the salary balance is crucial. If the goal is to fill the position with the possibility of highering a new associate quite frequently, then the balance will matter much less.
In regards to keeping an associate long term, they need to feel valued. Most of what I see in the industry and what I tell new graduating DC's is that they can expect a starting salary of $50-$60K. By providing this base amount and adding a small percentage bonus on top, this will ensure the associate is happy as far as salary is concerned. The other real issue that new DC's dwell on is "learning the business". I am not suggesting that you share with them your trade secrets but the more that you can help them and educate them on successful Chiropractic practices, the more they will value their position within your company. Some owners feel that using a high percentage base for income will motivate the DC to work harder and build the practice. I find that this practice will not usually work to motivate the Associate but that they will only work hard enough to maintain their positition. The associate usually will not reach the goals because they do not have the business education yet (if they did they would not work as an associate) and ultimately they will look and find another position close by where they can get a safe salary and learn.
I have heard from owners, "well if I just pay a salary, then they are not motivated", to which I respectfully disagree. If the associate is not working or motivated then % or salary will not do it, they need to be replaced.
Always remember the simple rule, Would you work for what you are offering?
If you have further questions or would like to chat further, feel free to contact me. Let me know what other topics you would like to read about.

Brian Torchin
Healthcare Recruitment Counselors
800-472-9060
www.healthcarerc.com
btorchin@healthcarerc.com