10 ways to kick-start a social media campaign with Facebook

By Kristie Nation

Too many practices have no social media campaign at all. They depend on outdated ways of communicating with existing patients as well as attracting new ones. According to MySocialPractice, “Facebook is clearly one of the best platforms for community-driven, Inherent Marketing^™.” Whatever social medium you choose to employ, the first step is getting past the excuses.

1. Post a “patient of the week.” People like hearing other people’s success stories, so showcase a patient who had a great visit in your office. This could be a kid who sat still through his very first visit, or a patient who finally got his or her new implants and wants to show off that new smile.

2. Ask a question. People will interact if you give them a chance to share their opinions. Create polls too; these can be great research tools. With polls you can get valuable input while collecting real-time data.

3. Offer an incentive. Announce that everyone who “likes” your page this week will be entered in a drawing for a nice prize. This can be an ongoing way to keep attracting new viewers to your page.

4. Encourage participation. Ask for input on your office techniques, comfort, and customer care. Remember, people love to tell you what you’re doing wrong as much as what you are doing right. Respond to any issues promptly and professionally.

5. Talk about your community involvement. Post a picture of your staff participating in a local charity event or drive. If you help raise money for a cause, publicize your dedication and contribution.

6. Recognize your staff members. Celebrate your “employee of the month” and show your appreciation by giving them tickets to a local attraction or dinner at a local restaurant.

7. Show before-and-after photos of your star patients for various procedures. Educate the public and show them that they, too, can experience great results. Be available to answer questions from readers.

8. Cheer your practice members on in nondental-related events. Does your hygienist bowl in a league? Turn out to support her and post her score!

9. Create videos. These can include informational videos starring yourself, testimonials starring patients, or interviews starring other “experts” in the community.

10. Network. “Like” other providers’ Facebook pages — this doesn’t have to be your competition, just other professionals. “Like” your vendors, your patients’ companies, etc.**

Facebook is a remarkably simple form of social media when you stop looking at it as an advertising gimmick and start treating it as a basic communication tool. Then it’s as easy as talking about all the things you already talk about every day in your practice!

** For more great ideas, visit MySocialPractice.com.

Author bio
Kristie Nation is the founder and CEO of myDentalCMO, a marketing consulting firm that provides strategic marketing "treatment plans" exclusively for dental practices. The firm was founded with a mission to prevent dentists from wasting countless dollars marketing their practices ineffectively. She can be reached at [email protected] or at (888) 557-6443.