While passion and hard work will allow any physician to see growth in their practice, marketing is the lifeblood that will facilitate exponential growth and success in the business. Even though some don't like to see it as such, health practices are businesses that need to be run efficiently. One of the key components of a thriving business is the process of getting the word out about the services offered. Listed below are a few ways this can be done.
1. Stand Out.
It's not enough to have the degrees and the expertise in a specific field. Every physician has expertise. However, there are still very creative ways to stand out as the physician everyone wants to see. For example, a pediatric doctor's practice should reflect the clientele. Investing in an indoor playground, fun video games and a fresh coat of yellow paint for the walls will leave kids wanting to come back and consequently, the parents will be pleased as well. If the physician's education includes extensive research on holistic approaches to the body, broadcast that element. Whatever stands out about the physician should be highlighted.
2. Beside Manor
A visit to the doctor is understandably dreaded by most. To have a physician who makes a person feel special and happy to come to the office is a really special gift. Just like people will talk about the delicious food they ate at the new Mexican restaurant or the phenomenal pedicure they received at the local spa, they will also share the word about an amazing doctor. Treat the current patients like kings and queens from the time they walk in the door until the time they leave. They will spread the word for free!
3. Network
Networking is an extremely vital part of the marketing process. If people aren't able to put a face with a name, the brand doesn't exist. Collaborate with other doctors who can potentially send clients. Provide lunch and present the strong points of the practice. Join associations that may be in other fields so that people can become familiar with the practice. The point is to become the first point of reference when medical attention is needed. Become affiliated with the local chamber of commerce and attend any events and fairs scheduled. Consider volunteering time to visit schools to do presentations with students on the importance of good hygiene and health habits while young. This could lead to the business of the staff, students' parents and personnel.
4. Online Presence
Even if networking isn't the strong suit, anyone can become a solid marketer on the internet. There are so many business-building opportunities to be utilized. Shoot videos that cover different health nuggets and post the content to YouTube. Have a blog on the company's website with similar material. Blast all the content through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and other social media outlets.
5. Hire a Marketing Rep.
Hiring a marketing representative might have seemed like the obvious decision from the beginning. However, when the previous steps have been performed, a marketing rep is the perfect person to take the company to the next level. For example, a marketing professional like Progressive Dental Marketing will know more about building an online presence with tricks like search engine optimization. Besides, they possess their own network and rolodex to bring to the table.
Utilize all of these tactics and in no time, success will be achieved. It simply takes a bit of hard work, persistence and intentionality to get the job done. Once the ball is rolling, the patients will come too!
My name is Lizzie Weakley and I am a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. I went to college at The Ohio State University where I studied communications. I enjoy the outdoors and long walks in the park with my 3-year-old husky Snowball.