Running a successful dental practice is difficult. The competition can be fierce, especially with all the new dental practices that pop up in each corner every day. Today I talk about the crucial and interesting method to attract new patients to your business.
The Word of Mouth or Referral Marketing:
Word of mouth or referral marketing is the most important way to get new patients for any dental practice, it is like new blood to the vein.
In this method, you are using your existing patients to spread the good news about your practice and services to their family members and friends in hopes of gaining more patients. When your existing patients have exceptional experiences with you, they are more likely to share these positive moments with friends and family members.
These days with the internet dentists and their staff members can be more engaging with their patients in person at the office, and online. When you build personal connections, you are recruiting your existing patients to bring new patients.
So as a business owner you need to consider the referral numbers all the time, if your referral rate is less than %50 of all new patients then something is wrong. The goal should be around %70%80.
I found most of the practices have a problem with the referral.
Why?
Because dentistry is customer-based, it means patients decide where to go for treatment based on trust and other criteria.
How to know your patients will refer your practice❓
The referral involves giving the patients what they want, when they want, at the price they want.
This is a short list:
✅ Flexible hours ( Weekends, early morning or late afternoon or evening
✅ Being in-network with the patient’s health insurance
✅ Willing to work with patients of any age and gender
Provide Interest-free finance
✅ offer the service that they want ( I need some research on demographics to know your area and your ideal patients)
Why Referral is a matter for you as a business owner❓
- It’s very cost-effective
- More likely to have higher retention rates and stronger loyalty from patients who were referred to you by other patients
- You reach a wide range of audiences that never look for your practice
Six Proven Strategies to Boost Your Referral
1️⃣ Ask your Patients for Referrals
2️⃣ Have a Dedicated Referral System
3️⃣ Appreciate Your Patients for Dental Referrals
4️⃣ Use Referrals on Social Media
5️⃣ Run a New Patient Special
6️⃣ Go Above and Beyond to Provide a Great Experience for Your Patients
Remember that your goals should be measurable, specific, and achievable. You’re not going to get referrals from 100% of your patients. Set a realistic goal, communicate it to your staff, and watch as the referrals roll in!
