Sometimes it's hard to know where to start when it comes to marketing for your medical practice. What is everyone else doing? Is it working? Do I really need a Twitter account? It can be a bit overwhelming, distracting, and frustrating.
So, we did a bit of homework and came up with some practical yet effective ways for you to beef up your marketing efforts.
1. Create a top-notch website. In the age of digital media, a website can go along way in setting the stage for your practice. It serves as the one-stop-shop for all your services; it's the resource center for both your patients and staff. A current mobile optimized website with simple navigation, will allow your patients to easily view your offerings and set the tone for your practice.
2. Use patient testimonials. If you have loyal patients who recommend you to every family member and friend, use them! Ask if they might be willing to write a review or allow you to quote them on your website or a brochure. You may also want to consider claiming your profile on Yelp! and updating it with your practice information.
3. Host an open house. Invite your staff, referral coordinators, colleagues, current and prospective patients, and even the local media to an open house at your practice. Offer prizes or a raffle to incentivize people to bring their friends. It's a great chance to let people know you who you are and what your practice has to offer.
4. Try referral gifts. Offer loyal patients a gift for referring a patient to you. It’s a nice way to say thank you, as well as remind them to tell their friends about you. It can help encourage word of mouth marketing, one of the most compelling and effective ways to spread your brand.
5. Send birthday cards/emails. A personal touch goes a long way. Sending a birthday card or personalized note tells your patients you care. A birthday postcard can also serve as a reminder for regular check-ups and help ensure compliance for patients' annual visits.
6. Commit to community outreach. Get involved in your community and get to know you patients. Need a place to start? Try volunteering. Once you have a better understanding of who you are trying to reach, you can customize your marketing to your patient population. The more you know about who you want to reach, the more you can focus your efforts.
7. Offer to guest post. If you don't have the bandwidth to keep up with a blog or regular social media channels, find other blogs or websites where you can contribute. This will allow you to reach a broader audience and help drive traffic to that top-notch website you created.
For more ideas on marketing your practice, check out these articles:
