Kunal Thakker, founder and CEO of Tooth Club, reveals his tips and tricks on how practices can attract new patients after opening.
Embarking on the journey of starting a new dental practice is filled with excitement. However, successfully attracting patients to your new venture requires meticulous planning and effective marketing strategies.
As the founder and CEO of Tooth Club, a group of 11 dental clinics, I’d like to share some helpful hints and tips that have proven successful in attracting patients and building a thriving patient base for your new dental practice.
In a competitive market, it’s crucial to differentiate your practice and effectively communicate your unique value proposition. Identify what sets your practice apart from others, be it specialist dentistry, cutting-edge technology, a patient-centric approach, or a warm and inviting environment.
Emphasising these unique qualities will attract patients who are specifically seeking the solutions or experiences you offer. Clearly articulate why people should choose your practice over others in the vicinity.
Enhance online visibility
In today’s digital age, establishing a strong online presence is paramount. Develop a professional and user-friendly website that showcases your expertise, services and practice philosophy.
Optimise your website for search engines (SEO) to enhance its visibility in online searches. Include informative content, compelling calls-to-action, and contact details to encourage potential patients to get in touch. Offer accessibility through features like WhatsApp, chatbots, and quick lead forms that are easy to complete.
Word-of-mouth referrals are immensely valuable for any new practice. Create a referral program that incentivises your existing patients to recommend their family, friends, and colleagues.
Building a presence within your local community plays a vital role in attracting patients. Participate in local events, fairs, and sponsor community organisations or sports teams. Consider hosting educational workshops or open house events to introduce your practice to the community, foster trust, and establish credibility.
Engaging with schools and offering free check-ups for children is an excellent way to engage families and encourage enrolment in your family dental plan.
Actively engage
Harness the power of social media platforms to connect with your target audience. Develop engaging content that educates, entertains, and builds trust. Share oral health tips, success stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your practice. Promptly respond to comments, messages, and inquiries to actively engage with your followers.
Paid social media advertising can also be effective in reaching a broader audience and targeting specific demographics. It’s important to measure the return on your investment—for instance, if you spend £500, track the number of patients acquired and the revenue generated from those patients.
Forge partnerships with complementary local businesses, such as healthcare providers, orthodontists, or beauty salons. Collaborate through referral programs, shared marketing materials, or joint events to promote each other’s services. These partnerships expand your reach and introduce your practice to a wider network of potential patients.
Flourish and earn patients’ trust
Consider offering introductory promotions, discounts on specific treatments, or complimentary consultations to attract new patients. Highlight these offers on your website, social media platforms, and local advertisements to capture attention and incentivise patients to choose your practice.
Attracting patients to a new dental practice necessitates a strategic and multifaceted approach. By defining your unique value proposition, creating a strong online presence, engaging with the local community, implementing referral programs, and leveraging social media, you can establish a thriving patient base.
With careful planning, consistent marketing efforts, and a patient-centric approach, your new practice can flourish, earning the trust and loyalty of patients seeking quality dental care.
Thinking about a squat practice or have a question? Feel free to reach out to us at: linkedin.com/in/toothclub.
