Marketing from the inside out is the most effective and inexpensive way to get new patients. Patient referrals are key. The key to keeping patients you have and to have them refer their friends, family, and coworkers is to let them know you appreciate them.
Here is my list of the 12 things you can do TODAY to market your practice at little or no expense.
** Thank your patients for coming in and tell them it was good to see them. This is will go far when a patient is trying to decide between you and another dentist.
** Make your patient waiting area inviting and peaceful.
** Make every effort to see your patients at their appointed time. If they have to wait, they will be agitated by the time you see them. If you must make them wait, apologize.
** Look patients in the eye when speaking to them. This will create a bond and build trust.
** Never make a patient feel stupid for asking questions. Make sure your team also follows this rule.
** Charge what you’re worth and be worth what you charge.
** Make your own post opphone calls. This will go further than you can imagine. Patients will tell everyone they know about you.
** Your patients’ time is important too. If you can save them a trip by doing one extra filling, then do it … it’s more cost effective for everyone involved.
** Treat every patient the way you want to be treated. When you’re with someone, give the person your undivided attention. Everyone should feel like the most important person in your office.
** Ask your team to abstain from wearing perfume. Many people are allergic and they won’t say anything about it, they just won’t come back.
** Resist the temptation to treatment plan based on appearance. You should present your patients with the best treatment options possible. If they can’t afford it, so be it. They are responsible for their finances. You are responsible for making them aware of needed dental treatment.
** Display posters to promote the procedures that are available in your practice. i.e., Invisalign, Six Month Smiles, implants and implant restoration, whitening services, specific cosmetic procedures and materials, oral cancer screening, etc. Having posters nicely framed and displayed in the treatment rooms is an inexpensive way to market your services.
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Mary has worked in the dental industry for 30 years. A 17-year career as a dental assistant, office coordinator, and office manager led a large practice management and transition company to invite Mary to join their team. She started the next phase of her career as a practice management consultant and has worked with clients throughout the United States. In 2002 Mary started The Dental Business, and continued coaching clients on how to grow their business and have a team they love. The Snyder Group invited Mary to be a part of their team in 2009. In 2010, The Snyder Group merged with Henry Schein Professional Practice Transitions, and Mary was honored join Schein. Mary loves the challenges The Dental Business brings and is grateful to be involved in the decisions that dentists make.
