To ensure good business, a marketing strategy is essential for any medical and dental practice looking to engage with both new and returning patients. Get word out on your spectacular patient services and how you differ from other practices in the area!

Not sure where to start? Here are five effective tips to help you with your practice marketing strategy.

1. Online presence, website and social media

In addition to traditional marketing, your practice needs a strong online presence so that patients and referrers can find you with ease. Regularly update your website to ensure that people can always access practical information such as your phone number, opening hours and services on offer.

As well as an effective website, use social media to easily connect with your network, alert your patients to any practice updates, and promote your brand to those who don’t know you!

For example:

• Facebook and Twitter can be used to run polls and share important updates such as office closures, and public health announcements
• LinkedIn can be used to connect with other healthcare professionals

2. Referrals

Word-of-mouth is still a highly valuable asset for businesses. Think carefully about the non-clinical aspects of the patient experience to help you understand how you make your clients feel, and whether they will recommend you to their network. 

Tips for useful regular feedback:

• Ask how patients found out about you
• Find out why they chose to come to you e.g. a warm reception experience.
• Conduct feedback surveys through email or a bowl in the waiting room
• Perform regular follow up calls
• Suggest/request online reviews

3. Google & Search Engine Optimisation

In order to get that top spot on Google results, you need to follow the best practices of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). SEO is key in driving traffic to your website as it helps users find you when searching for services related to your business. 

If that sounds alien to you – don’t worry! There’s a useful guide to medical centre SEO in Australia here.

Investing time and money in local search presence is also extremely important as you’ll want to increase the chances of people being able to find you when they need you! 

4. Local Network

Consider your local network as another organic marketing strategy. Think about how other healthcare practices in the area could refer your practice so that you reach more people in the area.

To ensure you’re bringing in new customers, be proactive in networking and communicating with your local health care professionals as their referrals will be key to the success and growth of your practice.

5. Guidelines

Whilst implementing your marketing strategy, always ensure that you’re across the legal considerations under AHPRA guidelines. The advertising hub highlights information relating to healthcare advertising. You can read more here: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency – Advertising hub (ahpra.gov.au)

Practice Manager tips from Johnson Recruitment

Johnson Recruitment is an independent recruitment and consulting firm specialising in the Community Services, Social Purpose, Health and Medical sectors, as well as in the recruitment of Practice Managers and support staff, across all sectors. Contact us on 03 9946 7320 or info@johnsonrecruitment.com.au to learn more about how we can assist you with a vacancy or new role today. Follow our LinkedIn and Facebook pages for more information and to keep up to date with the latest jobs, events and career advice.