I recently asked a business expert to outline five of the most effective strategies that a dental practice owner could use to enhance business growth for a privately owned dental practice in Australia.
He told me that the success of any business hinges on employing the right combination of available strategies.
Here are five really effective strategies that you could use immediately to enhance growth for your dental practice:
- Enhance Your Patients’ Experience:
Prioritise the development of a world-class customer service process that creates a positive experience for your patients.
Firstly, you want to be making every patient’s visit as comfortable and pleasant as possible by creating a welcoming and calming environment in your practice.
This will immediately set your practice apart from other dental practices in your area.
You want to be punctual, with minimal waiting times for your clients.
Your team needs to be managing appointment scheduling efficiently and effectively.
- Invest In Digital Marketing:
Having a strong online presence is vital. Your dental practice should have a professional, well-designed website that inspires patients and prospective patients to contact your practice and make an appointment.
Your website should be easy to navigate, and your team details and photos should be easy to find. They should also be professionally done.
Use SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) strategies to improve your search engine ranking, making it easier for potential patients to find you. Consider utilising an Instagram page for your practice as well as a Facebook business page to engage with the community and share valuable social posts, along with the occasional dental care tip.
Email marketing can also be a powerful tool for sharing newsletters, events, and special promotions.
- Pick Your Market:
By offering a wide array of dental services, you can confuse your patients about what services you do really well.
It’s impossible to be a master of everything in dentistry. Work out what you like doing, and refer the rest out, or have a visiting specialist do sessions in your rooms if that would work?
- Establish a Referral Programme:
One of the most effective ways to bring in new patients is through referrals from existing ones. Develop a referral program that encourages your current patients to recommend your practice to their family, friends, and colleagues.
- Community Engagement and Partnership:
Dentistry is a community-oriented service, and forging strong relationships within your local community can significantly boost your practice’s growth. Participate in local events, sponsor local teams or organizations, and offer free information evenings and seminars about dental hygiene and care. Partnering with local schools for oral health education may also be an effective strategy. These activities not only increase your visibility but also demonstrate your commitment to community welfare, thereby enhancing your reputation.
Remember, measuring the effectiveness of these strategies is also crucial. Use metrics such as new patient acquisition, patient retention rate, and revenue growth to track your progress. Be willing to adjust your strategies based on the feedback and data you gather.
Always prioritise patient satisfaction, because a happy patient is always more likely to refer others to your practice.
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Dr. David Moffet BDS FPFA CSP is a certified CX Experience coach. David works with his wife Jayne Bandy to help SME businesses improve their Customer Service Systems to create memorable World Class experiences for their valued clients and customers. Click here to find out how David and Jayne can help your business