I want to start a private practice, but I'm not very good at marketing or self-promotion. One of my co-workers suggested that I get an adjunct teaching position as a way of making myself known and getting referrals from graduate students and faculty members. Because so many social workers enter the profession to help people, salesmanship and self-promotion don't always come naturally. However, there's a silver lining to that ubiquitous service mentality.
Graduate students studying to become social workers are likely to share a desire to help others.
As their teacher, you're in a good position to benefit from their altruism, since they'll undoubtedly feel comfortable making referrals to a teacher whose work they respect and trust. Fortunately, you don't have to have teaching experience to obtain an adjunct teaching position at many colleges and universities. The best way to get an adjunct position is through networking. Because you don't have teaching experience, the fact that others in the field know you and are willing to vouch for you will work to your advantage. There are also many job banks that list adjunct and part-time faculty positions.