2020 was a year marked with tremendous uncertainty. From a global epidemic to political volatility and economic instability, major events that marked the year were a recipe for disaster.
While it is impossible to predict what will happen in 2021, we can only hope for the best. We can also take what we learned from our experiences in 2020 to make ourselves better and grow stronger in 2021.
The dental industry wasn’t spared by the events of 2020. Many practices were brought to their knees. Some were even forced to close due to the losses they experienced. If you’re looking for ways to increase dental patients and get your practice back on its feet, read on to find out how you can get back on track in 2021.
How to increase dental patients in 2021
- Prepare for the fallout from 2020
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Not so with a global pandemic and other events of 2020. While life in many parts of the country is adapting to the new normal, the events of 2020 will still continue to impact business in 2021.
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in high unemployment rates. Even with the hope of a vaccine, the pandemic still continues to affect many people. People are weary about going anywhere in fear that they’ll contract the virus. With people fearing for their health, many are still fearful of visiting a dental practice.
In your effort to attract new dental patients, it is important to look back at the past year and learn from it. What worked for you? What didn’t? What problems did you experience? What brought patients to you? How did new patients learn about you? Are there any opportunities that presented themselves?
- Increase your online presence
How will new dental patients find you? In a world where physical social interaction is limited, you can no longer rely on traditional marketing strategies such as referrals, word-of-mouth or even street signage. There’s never been a time when having a strong online presence has been as important as it is today. With people’s movements being restricted, many people are searching for the services they need online.
Invest in a professional website that patients can browse through to find out more about your services. Set up accounts on social media networks and create a Google My Business page as part of your local SEO strategy. Encourage patients to write reviews about your practice and recommend it to their networks.
- Take advantage of third-party marketing platforms
It can be difficult trying to keep up with the latest digital marketing trends in order to remain visible to potential patients. A great way to ensure that you remain visible to the right audience at all times is to take advantage of third-party marketing platforms.
A good example is the Xcare Pro platform. This platform gives you the opportunity to list your services. Patients looking for a trusted dentist in the area will be able to see your listing including ratings from other patients. The platform provides them with your contact information and allows them to book an appointment without leaving the platform.
This is a great solution to access qualified leads without having to advertise your services.
- Provide timely and empathetic communication
With the new normal, visits to the dentist are no longer the same. Many patients prefer to have access to as much information about the practice or procedures as they can prior to visiting the dental practice. Many prefer to book appointments online too.
It is important to put yourself in the shoes of your patients. How would you search for a dental practice when your movements are restricted? What would you like to know and how would you like to schedule an appointment?
Present your brand as an empathetic one. Provide your patients with the information they need to make decisions amid the global pandemic. Provide patients with an easy way to get their questions answered. For example, provide a chat feature on your website. Be sure to respond to their queries in a timely and empathetic manner. Patient experience from the moment of first contact to after scheduling a procedure and completing their treatment should be a top priority for your practice for success in 2021.
- Focus on building long-term relationships
2020 has taught the world the importance of building long-term relationships. Nothing is more valuable for a dental practice than being able to establish relationships with patients for the long term. This should remain your focus when seeking to generate new leads. This is possible through offering high-quality services to your patients. It will ensure you can establish yourself as a trusted brand and attract more patients to your practice.
Apply the tips above to your dental practice in 2021 and attract new patients. Your business will soon be thriving once again.
