According to the American Dental Association, “In 2015, there were 195,722 practicing dentists in the United States. This translated to 60.9 dentists per 100,000 population.” Taking these statistics into account, how can these professionals differentiate themselves from their competitors? Branding and content marketing.
Following are five creative marketing tools that will help these practitioners brand themselves and keep them in the forefront of their patients’ minds.
Creative Marketing Tools for Dentists
1. Blogs
Blogs are the most important versatile branding and content marketing tool for dental professionals. In addition to building relationships, they can be used to sell products and services through education.
For example, Lane Family Dental educates patients with articles on how to use the right mouthwash, ways to fight bad breath and tips for whitening your teeth. When people read these articles, they will consider this practice for their dental needs.
2. Smile Galleries
The Centers for Dental Implants has a smile gallery that displays before and after photos of their work. Showing the results of their dental work is powerful because visuals speak for themselves.
3. Social Media
With Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and all of the other social networks, how do dentists choose where to promote their businesses?
If time and resources are limited, they should select one or two sites to establish a presence and then develop a manageable marketing strategy. The most effective plan of action, though, is highlighted by Joe Pulizzi in the following video:
One content type, one platform, consistently delivered over time
However, if they hire someone to manage their online presence, they can be found on Google+, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube like SLO Smiles.
4. Newsletters
Newsletters are great for communicating with people who want to receive information directly from the source. Dentists can use them to send exclusive discounts and coupons, as well as link to educational blog posts. They should also include a testimonial or photos from satisfied patients in each issue.
Be sure to ask newsletter recipients to share them with people on their social networks and email lists.
5. Fun Coupons
Create fun coupons to drive traffic to your business through your site. Post the coupon on your blog and put a link to them on your social sites. Coupons can also be printed and placed in grocery stores, fitness centers, libraries and other places that allow you to post information for free.
Examples of fun coupons:
Valentine’s Day – Send someone you love for a check up
Mother’s Day – Your mom is the most beautiful woman in your life. Make sure she has a smile to match.
Above are five creative marketing tools that will help dentists brand themselves and keep them in the forefront of their patients’ minds.
What About You?
What are other creative tools and strategies have you seen dental professionals use?
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