I’ve written before about SEO, different internet tactics for acquiring new patients, and the importance of having a strong internet presence. And how they have helped my practice. But there are still ways that you can get new patients and hold on to your existing ones without internet marketing. It just makes it a lot easier. Here are some ways that you can get by without the internet, but how you could get by a lot better with it.
1. Referrals
A great way to get new patients is through word of mouth. Most people have a pretty large social circle or at least come in contact with a lot of people, including their family. If somebody the know needs a dentist and you’ve treated them right, they can refer them to you and just like that you’ve got a new patient. The same has happened to me and every other dentist out there. Referrals are easy, but you still have to put in some effort. Like giving patients a simple reminder as they are leaving your office to refer their friends and family to you. The other thing about referrals is treating your patients right.
2. Treat Your Patients Right
If you want to get referrals, new patients, or even keep your existing patients, you have got to treat your patients correctly. Make sure that they are comfortable, be upfront with them about any costs, and perform quality dental work. People also love a nice, friendly dentist. Even if you aren’t the friendliest person, you have got to show your patients some effort. Especially if you have any child patients. You should also make sure that your office staff is friendly and helpful. Your patients schedule appointments through your staff so make sure you have quality employees.
3. Postcards
For holding on to patients, postcards are a great way to go. Most of your patients live close to your office, so sending out postcard blasts reminding people that they need to get a check-up and cleaning is a cheap, effective way of making sure they come back to you. Some people don’t like doing postcards, or only do postcards, but the trick to dental marketing is doing multiple things. They can be helpful but you have to do other things as well.
4. The Internet
Alright, so here we are. I went over the basic, easy steps that you can do without the internet, but this stuff is the really effective, high level marketing tactics. Doing SEO is so important, because you’ve got to have an online presence if you want to reach out to all the people searching for a dentist. So send out email blasts (just like postcards for the digital age), hire an SEO agency to boost your rankings, and make sure that you have a cool social media presence, and interact with your patients and your community. Having strong signals also boosts how easily you can be found.
About the Author
Practicing out of Rocklin, California, Dr. Keith Nguyen serves the greater Sacramento area with his practice: Pro Dental Group Family and Cosmetic Dentistry and enjoys writing articles for dental sites.