Ai Healthcare Marketing

Category: Creative Consult

  • Why Cheap Marketing Can Cost You More in Healthcare Practices

    Why Cheap Marketing Can Cost You More in Healthcare Practices

    In the competitive realm of healthcare, practices often grapple with the challenge of balancing cost-efficiency with effective marketing strategies. While the allure of cheap marketing solutions is understandable, especially for small to mid-sized practices with limited budgets, the long-term costs of such an approach can far outweigh the immediate savings. In this blog, we delve into why investing wisely in your marketing efforts is crucial and how cutting corners can end up costing healthcare practices more in the long run.

    The True Cost of Cheap Marketing

    Cheap marketing solutions typically offer a one-size-fits-all approach, lacking the customization and strategic planning necessary for impactful results. In healthcare, where trust and credibility are paramount, subpar marketing efforts can tarnish a practice’s reputation, misrepresent services, and ultimately lead to a loss of potential patients.

    Quality and Credibility at Stake

    Healthcare practices thrive on the trust and confidence of their patients. Low-quality marketing materials, such as poorly designed flyers, substandard websites, or generic email templates, can convey a lack of professionalism and attention to detail. This perception can extend to your healthcare services, causing patients to question the quality of care they might receive.

    Ineffective Messaging and Targeting

    Cheap marketing often means generic messaging that fails to resonate with specific patient demographics or address unique health concerns. Effective marketing requires an understanding of your patient base, their needs, and the most effective channels to reach them. Without this tailored approach, your marketing efforts may fall on deaf ears, leading to wasted resources and missed opportunities.

    The Hidden Costs of Non-Compliance

    In healthcare, compliance with regulations such as HIPAA is non-negotiable. Cheap marketing solutions may not prioritize compliance, potentially exposing your practice to legal risks and hefty fines. The cost of rectifying these issues can be substantial, not to mention the damage to your practice’s reputation.

    Long-Term Impact on Patient Acquisition and Retention

    Initial savings from cheap marketing can be quickly negated if the strategies fail to attract new patients or retain existing ones. High-quality marketing is an investment in patient acquisition and retention, creating a steady stream of revenue for the practice. By skimping on marketing, you risk losing out on this vital growth engine.

    Investing in Sustainable Marketing Strategies

    To avoid the pitfalls of cheap marketing, healthcare practices should focus on sustainable strategies that offer a good return on investment (ROI). This involves several key elements:

    1. Professional Branding: Invest in professional branding services to ensure that all marketing materials reflect the high standards of your practice.
    2. Effective Online Presence: A user-friendly, informative website and active social media profiles are essential in today’s digital age. They should be viewed as investments, not expenses.
    3. Content Marketing: High-quality, educational content can establish your practice as an authority in your field, attracting patients who are seeking reliable health information.
    4. Targeted Advertising: Use data-driven advertising strategies to reach potential patients who are most likely to need your services.
    5. Patient Engagement: Implement marketing automation tools that allow for personalized patient communications, improving engagement and satisfaction.

    The Role of Analytics in Marketing Efficiency

    To ensure you’re getting the most out of your marketing spend, it’s crucial to track performance through analytics. This allows you to adjust your strategies based on what’s working and what’s not. Cheap marketing solutions often lack robust analytics, leaving you in the dark about the effectiveness of your campaigns.

    In conclusion, while it may be tempting to cut costs on marketing to save money upfront, healthcare practices must consider the long-term implications of such decisions. Cheap marketing can lead to poor patient perception, ineffective campaigns, compliance issues, and ultimately a loss of revenue.

    By investing in quality marketing strategies that are compliant, targeted, and professionally executed, healthcare practices can ensure they not only attract but also retain patients, securing the practice’s financial health and reputation for years to come.

  • Event Marketing for Dental or Healthcare: Connecting with the Community Offline

    Event Marketing for Dental or Healthcare: Connecting with the Community Offline

    In the digital age, where online presence is often the focus of marketing strategies, the power of face-to-face interactions can be underestimated.

    For dental and healthcare practices, event marketing remains a potent tool for building relationships, enhancing reputation, and ultimately growing the patient base. By engaging with the community offline through well-planned events, practices can create meaningful connections that resonate on a personal level. This blog post will delve into the strategies for successful event marketing and how it can be a game-changer for your practice.

    The Value of Offline Engagement

    Firstly, let’s acknowledge the unique value that offline events offer. They provide an opportunity for potential patients to meet you and your staff in a relaxed setting, fostering trust and rapport. Events can also serve as a platform to demonstrate your expertise, showcase new technologies, or highlight the services you provide, all while giving back to the community that supports your practice.

    Types of Events to Consider

    1. Health Fairs and Screenings: Participate in or host health fairs where you offer free screenings or consultations. These events are excellent for raising health awareness and showing your commitment to public wellbeing.
    2. Open Houses: Invite the public to visit your practice. Give them a tour, introduce them to staff, and explain your services in person. Open houses demystify the patient experience and can reduce anxiety associated with healthcare visits.
    3. Seminars and Workshops: Organize educational events on topics relevant to your services. For example, a dental practice might hold a workshop on the importance of oral hygiene for children.
    4. Charity Events: Sponsor or participate in charity runs, blood drives, or other community service events. These initiatives position your practice as a community pillar that cares about more than just business.

    Planning Your Event

    A successful event is all about good planning. Here are some steps to ensure your event goes off without a hitch:

    1. Set Clear Objectives: What do you want to achieve with your event? Whether it’s brand awareness, community goodwill, or introducing new services, having clear goals will guide your planning process.
    2. Know Your Audience: Tailor your event to the interests and needs of your community. Understanding your audience ensures that the event is relevant and engaging.
    3. Promote Your Event: Use both online and offline channels to promote your event. Social media, local newspapers, radio spots, and even direct mail can be effective.
    4. Engage with Partners: Collaborate with other local businesses or organizations to expand your reach and add value to your event.
    5. Follow Up: After the event, follow up with attendees through thank-you notes, emails, or phone calls. This can solidify the relationships you’ve started to build.

    Executing Your Event

    On the day of the event, execution is key. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience:

    1. First Impressions Matter: Welcome attendees warmly and provide clear signage to guide them.
    2. Engage and Educate: Have knowledgeable staff available to answer questions and engage with attendees. Educational materials should be accessible and easy to understand.
    3. Capture the Moment: Take photos and videos during the event (with permission) to use in future marketing efforts.
    4. Collect Feedback: Gather feedback from participants to learn what worked well and what could be improved for future events.

    Benefits of Event Marketing

    The benefits of hosting offline events are manifold:

    1. Building Trust: Personal interactions build trust faster than any digital ad can.
    2. Community Presence: Events establish your practice as an active member of the community.
    3. Word-of-Mouth Marketing: Satisfied attendees are likely to talk about their positive experience with friends and family.
    4. Direct Feedback: Events provide immediate feedback on your services and customer care approach.
    5. Networking Opportunities: Connecting with other local businesses can lead to partnerships and referrals.

    Event marketing offers a unique opportunity to connect with your community on a personal level, showcasing your practice’s commitment to healthcare beyond the confines of the office setting.

    While online marketing is essential in today’s digital world, complementing it with offline engagement can significantly enhance your overall marketing strategy. By hosting events that align with your practice’s values and goals, you can create lasting impressions that translate into a loyal patient base and a respected presence in the community.

    As you plan your next event, remember that it’s not just about promoting your practice—it’s about creating an experience that attendees will associate with your brand for years to come. With thoughtful preparation and execution, event marketing can be one of the most rewarding investments for any healthcare or dental practice looking to thrive in a competitive market.

  • Mastering PPC Budgets: The Strategic Advantage of Partnering with a Marketing Agency

    Mastering PPC Budgets: The Strategic Advantage of Partnering with a Marketing Agency

    In the digital marketing realm, Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising is akin to an art form—a blend of creativity, data analysis, and strategic bidding. It’s a powerful way to place your brand in front of the right audience at the right time. However, the success of PPC campaigns hinges on one crucial factor: the budget. Planning and securing an ideal budget for your PPC endeavors can be daunting, but this is where a specialized marketing agency steps in, transforming complexities into strategic advantages.

    Understanding the Budgeting Landscape

    A PPC budget is not just about setting aside funds for advertising; it’s about optimizing your investment to achieve maximum return on investment (ROI). To do this effectively, you need to consider several variables, including target audience, keyword competition, seasonality, and conversion rates. It’s a delicate balance between spending enough to make an impact and not so much that you diminish your ROI.

    Why Use a Marketing Agency for PPC Budgeting?

    Expertise and Experience

    Marketing agencies bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. They’ve managed budgets across industries and understand the nuances of different platforms like Google Ads and Bing Ads. Their experience allows them to forecast performance and set realistic budgets that align with your business goals.

    Data-Driven Decision Making

    Agencies rely on advanced tools and analytics to inform their strategies. They can dissect past campaign data to identify what works and what doesn’t, ensuring that every dollar of your budget is allocated effectively.

    Time Efficiency

    PPC management is time-consuming. By outsourcing to an agency, you free up internal resources that can be better spent on other areas of your business. Agencies have dedicated teams that monitor and adjust campaigns in real-time, ensuring that performance is always optimized.

    Access to Advanced Tools

    Agencies typically have access to premium tools for keyword research, bid management, and competitor analysis. These tools provide insights that are not always available through free or basic software, giving you an edge over competitors.

    Dynamic Budget Allocation

    The digital market is ever-changing, and flexibility in budget allocation is key. Agencies can dynamically shift funds between campaigns, keywords, or ad groups based on performance data, ensuring that your budget is always working as hard as possible.

    The Benefits of an AI-Enhanced Agency

    Some marketing agencies go a step further by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their services. AI can analyze large data sets faster and more accurately than humans, providing insights that can dramatically improve the efficiency of your PPC campaigns.

    AI algorithms can predict market trends, adjust bids automatically, and even personalize ads to individual users in real time. This level of optimization is difficult to achieve without AI technology.

    Planning Your Ideal PPC Budget

    Now that we’ve established the ‘why,’ let’s delve into the ‘how’ of planning your PPC budget with an agency:

    1. Define Your Objectives: What do you want to achieve with your PPC campaigns? Whether it’s increasing brand awareness, generating leads, or driving sales, your goals should dictate your budgeting strategy.
    2. Understand Your Audience: Who are you trying to reach? An agency can help you analyze your target demographic and set a budget that ensures visibility where it counts.
    3. Consider Seasonality: Consumer behavior changes throughout the year. An agency can help you plan for these fluctuations, increasing your budget during peak seasons and saving during slower periods.
    4. Competitive Analysis: What are your competitors doing? An agency can provide insights into competitor strategies and help you allocate your budget to compete effectively.
    5. Continuous Optimization: Your initial budget isn’t set in stone. An agency will continuously refine your spending based on campaign performance data.

    Securing Your Budget

    Once you have a plan in place, securing your budget involves making a case for PPC within your overall marketing strategy. Highlight the measurable nature of PPC—every dollar spent is trackable to a specific outcome, be it clicks, impressions, or conversions.

    Showcase projected outcomes based on historical data and industry benchmarks. Agencies can provide case studies or forecasts that demonstrate the potential success of well-managed PPC campaigns.

    In conclusion, while planning and securing the ideal budget for PPC may seem challenging, partnering with a marketing agency like us, AI Marketing Agency, can streamline the process. Agencies offer expertise, efficiency, advanced tools, and dynamic strategies that can make your PPC investment more productive. With their help, you can navigate the complexities of digital advertising and emerge with a budget that brings tangible results.

    Give us a call today for a free consultation to help you with your marketing goals in 2024.

  • Crafting a Future-Ready Marketing Plan for Dental and Healthcare Practices in 2024

    Crafting a Future-Ready Marketing Plan for Dental and Healthcare Practices in 2024

    As the calendar turns to 2024, dental and healthcare practices find themselves at the intersection of traditional patient care and the digital revolution. With patient expectations evolving and competition intensifying, having a robust, multi-faceted marketing plan is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. This blog post will guide you through creating a comprehensive marketing plan tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities that 2024 presents to dental and healthcare practitioners.

    Understanding the 2024 Healthcare Consumer

    Before you can market effectively, you need to understand your audience. Today’s healthcare consumers are more informed, tech-savvy, and health-conscious. They expect convenience, transparency, and personalization. Your marketing plan must address these expectations head-on, offering clear, accessible solutions that resonate with a digitally engaged audience.

    Key Components of a 2024 Marketing Plan

    1. Digital Presence and Optimization: Your practice’s online presence is often the first point of contact with potential patients. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and optimized for search engines with relevant keywords. Incorporate online scheduling and chatbots for instant engagement.
    2. Content Marketing: Develop a content strategy that establishes your practice as a thought leader. Create informative blog posts, videos, and infographics that answer common patient questions. Use patient testimonials and case studies to build trust and credibility.
    3. Social Media Engagement: Utilize social media platforms to connect with patients and create community. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your practice, patient success stories, and educational content that encourages interaction.
    4. Telehealth Integration: As telehealth becomes more mainstream, incorporate it into your service offerings and market it as a convenient option for consultations, follow-ups, and patient education.
    5. Local SEO and Community Involvement: Optimize for local search by claiming your Google My Business listing and encouraging reviews. Get involved in community events and sponsor local sports teams or health fairs to increase visibility.
    6. Email Marketing: Use email newsletters to keep in touch with patients, and share health tips, office updates, and special promotions. Segment your email list for targeted campaigns that speak directly to specific patient needs.
    7. Patient Experience Focus: Market the quality of the patient experiences your practice offers. Highlight any unique amenities or services that set you apart from competitors, like minimal wait times or cutting-edge treatment options.
    8. Reputation Management: Actively manage online reviews and feedback. Respond professionally to both positive and negative comments to show that you value patient input and are committed to continuous improvement.
    9. Referral Programs: Encourage word-of-mouth marketing by creating a referral program with incentives for patients who bring in new clients.
    10. Data-Driven Decision Making: Use analytics tools to track the effectiveness of your marketing efforts. Adjust strategies based on data regarding patient demographics, website traffic patterns, and campaign performance.

    Steps to Create Your 2024 Marketing Plan

    1. Market Analysis: Begin with a thorough analysis of the current market conditions, including competitor analysis and patient demographic trends.
    2. Set Clear Objectives: Define what you want to achieve with your marketing efforts—whether it’s increasing patient numbers, enhancing brand awareness, or promoting specific services.
    3. Budget Allocation: Determine how much you can invest in your marketing efforts and allocate your budget across different channels for maximum impact.
    4. Tactical Planning: Decide on the tactics you’ll use to meet your objectives. This may include content creation schedules, social media plans, SEO improvements, or community outreach programs.
    5. Implementation: Roll out your marketing initiatives according to your tactical plan, ensuring that all team members understand their roles in the execution.
    6. Monitoring and Adjustment: Regularly review the performance of your marketing activities. Be prepared to make adjustments as needed based on what the data is telling you.

    Your 2024 marketing plan should be agile, data-informed, and patient-centric, reflecting the dynamic nature of the healthcare industry.

    By embracing digital trends and maintaining a strong community presence, you can create a marketing strategy that not only attracts new patients but also nurtures long-lasting relationships with existing ones. Remember that an effective marketing plan is not set in stone; it evolves as new technologies emerge and patients need change. Stay adaptable, be creative, and keep your patient’s well-being at the heart of all your marketing efforts for a thriving practice in 2024 and beyond.

    If you have any questions or concerns about your marketing for a thriving practice, please contact one of our specialists here at AI Healthcare Marketing Agency and we will be glad to help you.

  • The Critical Importance of SEO for Dental Practices: A Deep Dive into Patient Acquisition and Retention

    The Critical Importance of SEO for Dental Practices: A Deep Dive into Patient Acquisition and Retention

    In the digital age, where the majority of people turn to search engines for health-related queries, having a robust online presence is crucial for dental practices. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the linchpin of a dental office’s online visibility, determining how easily potential patients can find their services. Without SEO, a dental practice may as well be invisible in the vast expanse of the internet. Here’s why SEO is essential for dental offices and what could happen if they neglect this vital aspect of digital marketing.

    Why Dental Offices Need SEO

    1. Visibility in Local Searches: Most dental services are localized. When people search for a dentist, they often include terms like “near me” or the specific location where they seek care. SEO helps ensure that your practice appears in these local searches, guiding potential patients directly to your door.
    2. Building Trust through Online Presence: Before making an appointment, patients want to know they are entrusting their oral health to reputable professionals. A strong online presence, bolstered by effective SEO, helps build this trust. High rankings on search engines are often subconsciously viewed as endorsements of reliability and quality.
    3. Educating Potential Patients: An SEO-optimized website can be a platform for educating visitors about dental health and services. This positions the practice as an authority in the field, increasing the likelihood that visitors will choose it for their dental needs.
    4. Cost-Effective Marketing: Compared to traditional advertising methods, SEO is a cost-effective strategy that offers a higher return on investment (ROI). It targets users who are actively searching for your services, leading to higher conversion rates.

    The Research and Decision-Making Process of Potential Patients

    Potential patients typically follow a journey that involves multiple stages before picking up the phone to schedule an appointment:

    1. Search: It begins with a search query. Users might type in “best dentist in [City]” or “teeth whitening services near me.” If your practice doesn’t appear on the first page of search results, the chance of these users finding you drops significantly.
    2. Research: After finding a list of potential dentists, users will visit websites to learn more about the services offered, the team’s expertise, and the overall feel of the practice. This is where quality content and a user-friendly website (both products of good SEO) make a difference.
    3. Reviews: Before making a decision, most users will read reviews about the practice. Positive reviews can significantly boost your reputation, while negative ones can be damaging. SEO can help manage online reputation by highlighting positive reviews and testimonials.
    4. Decision: Only after thorough research and consideration will a potential patient make the decision to contact the practice. This process can take anywhere from a few minutes to several days, depending on the individual’s urgency and decision-making style.

    The Consequences of Stopping SEO

    If a dental practice stops its SEO efforts, it won’t disappear overnight; however, over time, its online visibility will diminish due to several factors:

    1. Search Engine Algorithm Updates: Search engines frequently update their algorithms to provide better user experiences. Without ongoing SEO efforts, a website may fall behind and lose its rankings to competitors who continuously optimize their sites.
    2. Competitor Advancements: Other dental practices are likely investing in their SEO. If you halt your efforts, competitors will eventually outrank you, capturing the attention and business of potential patients.
    3. Outdated Content: SEO involves regularly updating the website with fresh, relevant content. Stopping this means content becomes outdated, which can negatively impact user experience and search engine rankings.
    4. Loss of Local Relevance: For local searches, which are vital for dental practices, consistent SEO ensures that your practice appears in local directories and maps. Without it, your relevance in local search results could diminish.

    SEO is not just a one-time setup but an ongoing strategy that requires attention and adaptation to the ever-changing digital landscape.

    For dental offices seeking to maintain and grow their patient base in a competitive market, investing in SEO is not just beneficial; it’s imperative. By ensuring that potential patients can find you easily online, trust your expertise, and read positive reviews about your services, SEO helps convert online searches into real-world appointments. Neglecting it means risking invisibility in an increasingly digital-first world where visibility is synonymous with viability.

    Sealing the Deal: Your Partner in Navigating the Digital Dental Landscape

    Now that you understand the undeniable importance of SEO for your dental practice and the potential risks of neglecting it, it’s time to take action. Remember, while you focus on creating beautiful smiles, your online presence should be working just as hard to bring those smiles through your door.

    This is where AI Healthcare Marketing comes into play. We specialize in crafting bespoke SEO strategies for dental practices like yours. Our expertise ensures that your website is not just a digital brochure but a dynamic tool that attracts and converts potential patients. With our finger on the pulse of the latest SEO trends and a deep understanding of the healthcare industry, we are equipped to elevate your online presence to the top of search engine results.

    Don’t let your dental practice fade into the background of the digital world. Let AI Healthcare Marketing be your guide and ally in this journey. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you optimize your website, engage with potential patients effectively, and keep your appointment books full. Your practice deserves to be seen, and together, we can make sure it shines brightly in the crowded online marketplace.

    Take the first step towards a thriving dental practice with AI Healthcare Marketing by your side. Reach out now, and let’s create a success story that even the search engines will love to tell.

  • Patient Care Doesn’t Start at The First Visit

    Patient Care Doesn’t Start at The First Visit

    Welcome to 2020!  It’s time to consider how you can effectively engage and effectively provide patient care to current and potential patients outside of the office. With your current and potential patients consuming video content on a regular basis and needing a faster reply to their questions and concerns, you need to equip your practice and your team with the tools to meet these rising needs. Two of the biggest trends of 2019 (and 2020) are video marketing and a chat solution for your website.

    You’re probably thinking that “video production is expensive, and I can’t afford to hire someone to monitor website chats”, and you would be correct. However, there are other options available! ChatBots have risen in popularity, and most importantly, effectiveness. If you go to any popular company’s site (example, Verizon) you’ll notice that they have a Chatbot that has been developed to meet the needs of their customers. You can find support documents and get answers to your questions quickly without having to call Verizon and sit on hold. Chatbots for Dental Practices can serve the same function and get the information that you need to turn your website visitor into a patient.

    What Should I Look for in a ChatBot?
    There are several different options and kinds of chatbots, however, if you are considering a chatbot, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. Number one is functionality. Is the addition of this chatbot going to slow down your website speeds and tank your SEO? If you have a good hosting plan in place, and a good website, probably not. However, there are chatbots out that due to how they were developed, they can slow your site down just enough to matter. The deciding factor for whether that new patient goes to your website vs your competitors can be 2 seconds of load time.

    The Second topic of consideration is customizability. Every practice is different and using a pre-built chat template simply isn’t going to cut it. This is a tool that is supposed to quickly capture lead information and get it to your team to make reach out and establish contact with the patient. You want the chat flow to sound human and engage the patient so that they feel that their concerns and needs have been met, and to connect them to your practice.

    The third, and last, topic of consideration is support. ChatBots can be wonderful tools, but they are just that. Tools need maintenance, and someone checking to make sure that your chats are being completed, and that your brand is being accurately represented. A solid support team (from your marketing company or chat provider) needs to have the ability to support the platform, as well as ensure that it is fully customized to the needs and tone of your practice.

    How Can I Produce Video for My Practice & My Marketing Team?


    According to Cisco, over 80% of the worlds internet traffic is projected to be video consumption by the end of 2019. With the traffic consumption being dominated by video, it’s important that you are producing video to continue engaging with your patients.

    Did you know that YouTube is the 2nd largest search engine in the entire world? With billions of hours worth of content being consumed every single day, YouTube is another search engine that you can leverage to obtain more exposure and provide more content for your patients to consume. Producing video doesn’t have to be difficult, time-consuming, or expensive. There are DIY video marketing solutions that allow you to create engaging videos for your patients, within 15-20 minutes or less. You can also record video a number of different ways (such as your phone, iMovie for mac, and other programs). In order to get the most out of your video marketing efforts, it’s important to prep your topics, and yourself.

    When preparing yourself, or your staff, to produce video for your business, it’s important to prepare the area. You want to ensure that the background looks organized and professional and that whoever is recording the video for your practice is in professional attire, preferably with company apparel. Next, you want to ensure that you have done some research on what you are creating a video for and create touchpoints for your team to help guide them along the recording process.

    Lastly, practice your talking points in front of the camera when it isn’t recording. Projecting a confident, authoritative voice on whatever subject you are discussing is essential in curating engagement and getting people to watch your videos.

    Have questions about video marketing, or want to learn more about chatbots? Affordable Image has provided high-quality dental marketing services for 25+ years.

    Originally published at https://www.thedentistsnetwork.net/dmktg15.html

  • Three marketing strategies for small businesses to focus on in 2020

    Three marketing strategies for small businesses to focus on in 2020

    What we used to see in the Jetsons and futuristic movies is swiftly becoming our day-to-day reality.

    “Each business is a victim of Digital Darwinism, the evolution of consumer behavior when society and technology evolve faster than the ability to exploit it. Digital Darwinism does not discriminate. Every business is threatened.”  Source

    For 2020 Marketing Vision, Focus on User Experience

    Of the top 50 marketing trends for 2020, the nucleus is a focus on improving the user experience (UX). According to the Nielson Norman Group, world leaders in research on UX, “User experience” encompasses all aspects of the end-user’s interaction with the company, its services, and its products.  Source

    Basically, that means every business should be looking for dynamic and creative ways to improve how their customers experience their business at every touchpoint.

    Again, overwhelming, right? Where do you start as a small business? What is within reach and will be the most effective? Each of the following three strategies will help you build more impactful and engaging encounters with potential clients and delight your current customers as well.

    Strategy 1: Omni-Channel Marketing

    Omni what? What does that even mean? Bottom line, it means creating a “… cohesive customer experience, no matter how or where a customer reaches out. { Source}

    Computer

    You most likely already have a multi-channel strategy. You have a great website, social media campaigns, and mobile marketing. The multi-channel experience is what most businesses invest in today. They have a website, blog, Facebook, and Twitter. They use each of these platforms to engage and connect with customers. However, in most cases, the customer still lacks a seamless experience and consistent messaging across each of these channels. { Source}

    Is your customer experiencing consistent messaging across all engagement platforms? Is your website up-to-date with current images and incentives? Does your website messaging match your ongoing social-media content? Are you delivering fresh content?

    The Omni-Channel approach no longer allows for segmented marketing strategies. Your website content and your social media brand messaging must be congruently current. Many businesses have one vendor managing their website, another vendor doing social media, and often the team is not informed of the ever-changing content. Having someone oversee every touchpoint to ensure uniformity is a must in 2020.

    HINT: As an agency that offers all things digital for our clients, we can help ensure the cohesiveness of your strategies.

    Capture Connection

    The other piece of an omni-channel experience for the consumer is about connection. Is it easy for your customer to connect with you and get the information they need; no matter where they are reaching out. Current and potential customers will expect to be able to converse with you via Facebook messaging, SMS/text messaging, and live chat on your website in 2020. Yes, you read that right, they will expect it.

    Implementing an omni-channel conversational platform, a.k.a. chat-bot, that allows your potential and current clients to communicate with you no matter where they are supports a better user experience and allows you to capture leads in the critical moment they are searching for you.

    Entrepreneur magazine said this about adding a chatbot to your website in 2020…

    “Any business that has a website with traffic can benefit from a simple chatbot that answers the most common visitor questions and helps convert visitors into warm leads.”

    Ok, on to strategy number two…

    Strategy 2: Interactive and Conversational Content

    Content is still king! Keeping blogs current and providing useful information (like dental tips) is vital to your ongoing success. Your content highlights your authority and expertise in your niche. And we can’t forget that your content is what the search engines use to connect your answers with potential consumer questions. Written content isn’t going anywhere anytime soon but technology and consumer’s expectations dictate the need for multimedia content that engages customers in different ways.

    Your website is not a one-and-done strategy and its goal is not only to attract new clients but also to consistently engage with your current clientele. It should be an extension of your brick and mortar business.

    So, what is interactive and conversational content?

    People Smiling

    It’s video. How-to videos, testimonials, quick clips for social media sharing or going live on social media.

    Written content demonstrates your proficiency while video content shows your personality.

    It’s interactive forms like online quizzes, surveys, and polls that encourage the customer to engage with you rather than simply read about you. You can then use the results you get from the interactive content to create more content that is relevant and that your customers are hungry for. You can repurpose that content for social media campaigns, email marketing, and future blog posts.

    This type of content surprises, attracts, and cuts through the consumer boredom. It leads them to converse with you in the process of learning more about you.

    “Updating your site regularly with creative content that piques people’s curiosity and drives their buyer’s journey forward can turn visitors into clients.” Source

    It’s webinars and keeping up on conversations people initiate on social media channels. Interactive and conversational style content builds the personal side of your brand. Allowing your current and potential customers to connect with you and your team on a more intimate level.

    And last but not least, strategy number three to wrap up your marketing plan for 2020 is…

    Strategy 3: Micro-Moment Marketing

    Micro-moment marketing is all about delivering what your customer wants when they want it.

    Google says this about the micro-moment mindset,

    “Micro-moments occur when people reflexively turn to a device—increasingly a smartphone—to act on a need to learn something, do something, discover something, watch something, or buy something. They are intent-rich moments when decisions are made and preferences shaped. In these moments, consumers’ expectations are higher than ever.” 

    They are broken down into four basic consumer needs, “I want-to-know moments, I want-to-go moments, I want-to-do moments, and I want-to-buy moments… and they’re game changers for both consumers and brands.”  Source

    4 Game Changing moments

    Understanding that consumers are driven by different needs in each of these moments allows you to tailor your content and the connection you’re providing to meet their need in a more intuitive way.

    • Your service pages on your website, how-to and educational videos serve the “I want to know” moment.
    • Your Google My Business page serves the “I want to go” moment.
    • Your website forms, chat bot, text and social media messaging serve the “I want to do” moment.
    • And your online appointment scheduler, live-chat, and your receptionist serve the “I want to buy” moment.

    Wrapping up your marketing plan for 2020 by focusing on tailored initiatives that create a cohesive conversational experience, engage the user in unique ways, and make the most of every opportune moment. The result… more productive lead conversion and a more delightful user experience.

    Already part of the Ai Healthcare Marketing family but curious about how we can help you create a better user experience? New to Ai Healthcare Marketing and want to know how we can help in 2020? CALL NOW! We’ll help you get started before you can say “New Decade” .

  • Video Marketing and Other Social Media Trends

    Video Marketing and Other Social Media Trends

    Shhh…we have a secret for you…so, it seems this social media thing is here to stay and it’s kind of a big deal in marketing!

    Ok, we know that wasn’t a surprise! You obviously know that social media marketing is a powerful tool for expanding your reach and attracting new patients.  But let’s review a few of the benefits of a strong social media strategy:

    • Growing a bigger audience.
    • Increasing brand awareness.
    • Connecting with your patients better.
    • Increase traffic to your website.
    • Promote more services which means more profit.

    It can be difficult to always come up with new and engaging ideas though. If your posts aren’t getting as much attention as you’d like, you’re probably feeling frustrated. It’s normal to encounter some slumps and roadblocks. When that happens, you just need a little boost! Some fresh air. Some new life.

    Here’s three simple strategies to make your social media marketing bloom this spring!

    1. Run a Contest

    One of the biggest social media trends is contests and it’s easy to understand why. Because who doesn’t love FREE? Everyone loves a chance to win a prize!

    Holding a contest on your social media accounts is a great way to amplify your practice and its services. Here’s how to launch an effective social media contest:

    • Set Goals: Prioritize what you want to get out of this campaign. Some potential benefits you can reap from a contest include boosting engagement, increasing your followers, and growing your email subscribers. Decide on one or two goals you really want and design your contest in a way that helps you reach them.
    • Determine the Budget: Set your budget based on the prize, promotion expenses, paid services, and potential ROI.
    • Choose the Prize(s): The reward must be exciting enough to get people on board with what your brand has to offer. Potential prizes may include a discounted service, free consultation, gift card, or free product related to your practice.
    • Decide Social Networks: Sometimes, it is beneficial and easier to limit your contest to one network, such as Instagram, if you really want to drive traffic to one particular platform. However, there’s no rule saying you need to stick with only one.
    • Determine Entry Requirements: Common ways to enter social media contests include following an account, tagging a friend in the comments, or sharing the post.
    • Know the Rules: Of course, your contest should meet all legal requirements. But keep in mind that each social network has specific rules regarding running and promoting contests. Adhere to these guidelines so you don’t get penalized.

    Make sure your contest targets prospective patients and that you engage with people who enter to maximize the benefits!

    2. Post Authentic Videos and Photos

    In order to earn the trust of prospective patients and obtain loyalty from current ones, your practice should be as authentic as possible on social media.

    One effective method for showcasing your realness is via video marketing. Video marketing is a worthy pursuit regardless. They are engaging pieces of content that people want to interact with. But adding an extra touch of authenticity will take it to the next level. Here are some ideas:

    • Behind the Scenes: Give people a glimpse into the daily lives of your practice through BTS videos and live streams.
    • Service Demonstrations: Don’t just tell people about your services – show them in action! Show how the professionals in your practice are actively improving the lives of your patients.
    • Patient Testimonials: Written reviews are great, but filmed testimonials from real-life patients are even better. Select some outgoing and articulate patients and ask them some questions, such as, “What are your thoughts about our practice?” and “What do you want to tell other people about us?”

    When people get to see the faces and personalities of your practice, they’ll feel a personal connection. Developing and maintaining this sense of connection is vital to growing a thriving social media presence.

    3. Get Involved In Cause Marketing

    In today’s world, many people want to support businesses that are involved with good causes. Cause marketing is a way to appeal to these individuals while making the world around you better too.

    This form of marketing involves your practice collaborating with a non-profit organization and/or advocating for a certain charitable issue. Here’s how you can take part in a meaningful campaign or partnership:

    • Choose a Relevant or Personal Cause: This effort is most likely to succeed if it is something you and/or your staff believes in.
    • Don’t Make It All About the Money: It may look good to patients if you showcase how much money you give to a non-profit, but cause marketing shouldn’t just be about bragging about donations. Your effort should also involve raising awareness about the issue with interesting content.
    • Collaborate With the Organization: While you can assume a charity is thankful for exposure and funds in any capacity, you should go the extra mile. Work with the non-profit to determine what will be the most beneficial strategy. If you have a strong partnership, the campaign will be even more successful.

    You may also want to pursue corporate giving and social responsibility. Corporate giving often involves tax-deductible donations with social responsibility which improves your public relations overall.

    Final Thoughts

    Marketing via your social media channels can be difficult at times. But you can’t deny the benefits! If you don’t make it a priority to jumpstart your social media marketing, you’ll miss out on patients, online visibility, and leads. Use these tips to improve your social media strategy until you’re getting the engagement you need.

    Already part of the Ai Healthcare Marketing family but need help developing a blooming social media plan? Would you love to add video marketing to your strategy? Looking to ‘be the change’ with a cause marketing plan? We can do that!

    Give us a call at (800) 742-3734 and we’ll get started on helping your practice bloom before you can say “SOCIAL SPRING”

  • Three ways to bridge the digital gap, reach more people and convert more leads to loyal customers.

    Three ways to bridge the digital gap, reach more people and convert more leads to loyal customers.

    No matter where your practice is in its growth cycle, we’d venture to say you’d like more patients. If you’re a new practice you want to build your patient base. If you’re an established practice, you’re looking to balance out normal patient attrition.

    As a marketing agency, we live to help you reach more patients. It’s what we do, and we love it!

    We can support you in building a strong brand and digital presence with a highly functioning website, targeted SEO campaigns, direct mail, social media, and various other promotional instruments.

    If you’re doing all of the above and still asking, “What else can we do to reach more patients?” We’re here to help! Here are three out-of-the-box, creative, inspired and fresh ideas to help you reach more patients and strengthen your brand.

    But before we move on to the ideas, let’s talk for a minute about why we believe these three things will attract more patients and help strengthen your brand.

    What’s brand mean again? In our blog about bad logos recently, we said, “your brand is your promise to your customer. It tells them what they can expect from your products and services, and it differentiates your offering from that of your competitors. Your brand is derived from who you are, who you want to be and who people perceive you to be.”

    The foundation of your brand is who YOU are. Your business has a personality. Your potential patients are eager to get to know the human element behind your products and services. They want more than the “you” we can deliver by way of the internet and their inboxes.

    Technology has drastically changed how we do business, but online interactions will never replace real-life connections.

    When you reach people where they are and exchange human emotion you transcend technology. Shaking your hand will eclipse clicking through time after time. The trust you build with face-to-face authentic interactions solidifies your brand promise and positions you above your competition.

    1. Bee Social (on social media)

    Think about your personal experience with social media. What garners more comments from your friends and family, a funny cartoon or pictures of you and your wonderful family on vacation smiling and laughing together? A link to an article or a short video of you holding a newborn family member or your child scoring the winning goal?

    You might get some engagement on the hilarious cartoon, but the real connection happens in the smiles, the laughter, the excitement, the joy. We respond to what hits our hearts.

    Structured ads and informational posts are an essential element in a strong social media presence. But to reach more people, create a buzz and really engage, you have to get personal with your audience.

    You and your team need to “Bee Social”

    “Getting more personal will be a differentiating factor for brands on social media in 2019…Just like in life, your personality will attract the people you’re friends with. Showing more personality is also helpful in creating more engaging content on social media.” {source}

    Woman using hashtags on social mediaAugment your social media calendar with real-time posts that put the “person” in your marketing personality:

    • Get on the “story” bandwagon. Facebook, Instagram, and other major players know the power of “ephemeral content”. Ephemeral content is short-lived viewing but not a trend that will be disappearing anytime soon. Forbes reports ”Ephemeral content is more authentic, and since it is limited to mobile, it is able to reach a wider audience.” {source}
    • Use “live” videos to share big events or how to use a new product.
    • Post “daily office life” pictures of you and your team.
    • Use trending hashtags with pictures of your team celebrating holidays along with the world #tacotuesday #superbowl or #happyvalentinesday
    • Create a photo booth in your office – use fun props, branded signs they can hold “Dr. ____ says I’m a great flosser”. Take their picture with their phone so they can share it on their own social network. Ask them to tag your office.

    Most importantly… engage with them!

    Whether you create the post, or it’s curated for you when your post is liked, shared or someone comments…respond in kind.

    Let them know you noticed their attention. Tag them in a comment and thank them. Respond to their comments as a friend would. Build an authentic relationship with your audience and communicate they matter by paying attention.

    We recommend you designate a team “socialite” to be on the lookout for opportunities to share real-life happenings in your office. Make sure they have a clear understanding of your brand and can reflect the personality of your business in the posts they create.

    2. Get involved in the community

    Your marketing strategies will serve to get your name out there.

    When a potential customer gets your postcard in their mailbox, visits your website or sees a targeted ad, they get a sense of what your business is about and the services you offer.

    But when you meet your customers where they’re at, shake their hand, converse, answer their questions and let them get to know you, you give them a greater understanding of who you are.

    Team volunteering in community

    Now, you’re a real person with real solutions for them and that bolsters brand awareness in a powerful way.

    • Sponsor or participate in local charity events
    • Visit and speak at local schools
    • Sponsor a youth sports team
    • Volunteer as a team
    • Join the Chamber of Commerce
    • March in a local parade
    • Attend or have a booth at local festivals, street fairs, farmer’s markets, and local gatherings
    • Create a scholarship for a local student
    • Become a local expert by offering to write a guest article for local publications
    • Offer a discount to local first responders, veterans, teachers or active-duty military

    The event doesn’t have to be directly related to your industry. It’s about establishing your presence in your community and giving people the opportunity to see the real you. It’s giving them a VIP backstage pass to your show. It moves them from a spectator to a raving fan!

    3. Join forces and network with other local businesses

    Local business on map

    Your potential customers are employees and patrons of other local businesses. Those employees and customers are in need of what you offer as well.

    • Bridal customers of the local floral shop would love a discount on teeth whitening for their special day. And your patients would love a discount on flowers for Mother’s Day.
    • Employees of the bank you do business with or the sandwich shop you order lunch from will at some point need your services.

    Find out what insurance is offered to the employees of major corporations in your area. If you participate with the plan, contact their Human Resources manager and ask if there is an opportunity for you to reach out to their employees to let them know you are here to serve them.

    Offer a “community” discount to smaller businesses around your office whose employees may not be covered by insurance.

    Look for ways your business can help support their team and their clientele.

    Join business-to-business networking groups in your local area.

    These groups are a great place to meet local business owners and build bilateral relationships. You will be at the forefront of their minds when they need your services, or they encounter someone else who does.

    It would be nearly impossible nowadays to grow a business without a conversion focused website and ongoing SEO campaigns.  You’re going to need comprehensive marketing strategies like direct mail, social media and PPC advertisements. But don’t rely fully on lead generation tactics that keep you at a digital distance from your ideal customer. Get within arm’s reach of them. Become relatable to them. Create opportunities to become a brand they understand.

    Already part of the Ai Healthcare Marketing family but need help developing a truly-social social media plan? Or guidance on leveraging ephemeral content, hashtags and live video? Looking to boost community brand awareness with promotional collaterals for your events and business-to-business B2B networking? We can do that!

    Give us a call at 800-742-3734 and we’ll get started on helping you create those truly transforming opportunities before you can say “Real-life connections” 

  • Think Direct Mail is Dead? Think again… 3 reasons proving it’s alive and kicking.

    Think Direct Mail is Dead? Think again… 3 reasons proving it’s alive and kicking.

    Do you remember waiting patiently by your stereo to hit “record” when your favorite song was played by Casey Kasem on the Top 40 Countdown…

    And rewinding cassette tapes with a number two pencil? Nostalgic memories we tell our children about while they shuffle through algorithm predicted playlists on their tiny, hand-held devices.

    They’re dinosaurs – technological fossils uncovered only by fond “when I was a kid” memories shared by those of us who were alive when they walked the earth.

    But then there’s denim, homemade apple pie and country music; classics that will never go out of style.

    So, is direct mail a thing from days-gone-by or a classic marketing strategy that still works?

    Direct mail interrupts our digital fatigue and helps consumers connect with a business on a personal level.

    NUMBERS DON’T LIE

    The digital age we live in leads many business owners to believe that direct mail is no longer effective at generating leads; a marketing fossil. But statistics say otherwise.

    69% of people think direct mail is more personal than the Internet.  

    56% of consumers say print marketing is the most trustworthy.

    54% say they prefer to receive updates and promotions in the mail.

    39% say they have tried a new business because of direct mail.

    Dental Economics reports “Even in the digital age, direct mail remains the best way to reach prospective patients in your area. It generates a 480% higher average response rate than PPC.” {source} {source}

    DIRECT MAIL: 480% higher average response rate than pay-per-click!

    Direct mail is a classic, solid marketing strategy that still works, in fact NOW maybe more than ever.

    According to Forbes magazine, the effectiveness of a direct mail campaign is on the rise “Consumers continue to use paper coupons at a higher rate each year.” In fact, according to a recent study, 93% of people said they’ll use coupons from the mail in 2018. This is up five percentage points compared to 88% in 2017. Although consumers rely on their smartphones, there is still a pleasant “tactile experience” from touching and using physical coupons.  {source}

    WE ARE PROGRAMMED TO RECEIVE

    Young woman getting mail

    We are physically wired to respond differently to the tangibility of direct mail versus digital advertising. Neuromarketing experts from the Center for Neural Decision Making at Temple University’s Fox School of business conducted a study in conjunction with the U.S. Postal service analyzing how the brain responds to physical and digital marketing stimuli.

    They found that:

    • Participants processed digital ad content more quickly.
    • They spent more time with physical ads.
    • Physical ads triggered activity in a part of the brain that corresponds with value and desirability.
    • Participants had a stronger emotional response to physical ads and remembered them better.

    Another study by the Canada Post used the exact same graphic and wording in both physical and digital campaigns and they reported that:

    • The direct mail campaigns required 21% less cognitive effort to process.
    • Participants’ recall was 70% higher if they were exposed to direct mail rather than a digital ad.
    • Activation in parts of the brain that correspond to motivation response was 20% higher for direct mail. {source for all above}

    No matter how technology advances, people are still people. And people want connection. When your ideal customer holds your direct mail piece in their hands, biology trumps technology creating a physical and emotional connection to your business.

    • Direct mail is memorable – We save pizza coupons for Friday nights. We can visualize last year’s Christmas card from our cousin. We pin appointment reminders on our refrigerators. Mail is physical and therefore we DO something with it. We may not remember where we put it, but we remember we got it.
    • Direct mail is nostalgic – We have fond associations with receiving mail. We remember feeling sentimental over a card received from a dear friend. Opening mail puts us wholly in the moment and makes us “feel” something.

    41% of Americans nevertheless look forward to checking what is in their mailbox each day. {source}

    Even Millennials who don’t remember when the mailbox was at the end of the driveway have positive feelings about snail-mail.

    • 84% of Millennials take the time to look through their mail.
    • 64% would rather scan for useful info in the mail than email.

    “Apparently direct mail—which comes only once a day—has become a novelty to this audience. Studies show Millennials enjoy receiving mail even more than non-Millennials. In fact, 50% of Millennials say they like to discover what the mail brings every day and consider time spent looking at and reading it time well spent.”

    {source}

    IT’S LESS INTERRUPTIVE

    Overloaded email box

    With notifications coming at us non-stop the competition for our attention has never been fiercer. Email, social media updates and, text messages. Advertisements galore in our newsfeeds and on every webpage we visit. It’s akin to someone poking you non-stop on the shoulder saying “Hey. Hey you.”

    While we appreciate the update that the latest model of the vacuum we searched for two months ago is now available, we have a heightened ability to sub-consciously ignore all those interruptions. We have  “banner blindness”.

    In 1997 Jakob Nielson, the leading web usability guru, studied the eye pattern of internet users with the help of heatmaps. He discovered what he called banner blindness. Internet users have been programmed to subconsciously ignore the presence of online ads, not even glancing in the physical space on the page where assumed ads are located. {source}

    That was 1997!

    And today?

    “March 2018 estimated the number of email accounts worldwide at 3.8 billion — and the number of consumer and business emails sent per day in 2018 at more than 281 billion. The research firm projects the latter figure to grow to more than 333 billion by 2022.” {source}

    Per person that looks like this…

    USPS Direct Mail Facts

    {image source}

    Neil Patel, a leading marketing expert said in a recent blog post on the effectiveness of direct mail, “Direct mail naturally gets more attention because there are fewer distractions when people see it. 80% of direct mail recipients scan or read each piece before throwing anything away.” {source}

    According to Forbes magazine and the Direct Marketing Association (DMA) “direct mail’s response rates are actually anywhere from 10 to 30 times higher than that of digital. It notes that consumers, overwhelmed by inboxes cluttered with unsolicited marketing emails, are more receptive to direct mail, which arrives on a much less-cluttered channel.” {source}

    NOTHING STOPS THE U.S MAIL

    While our physical mailbox may have an arm full of circulars, envelopes, and postcards it is still far less cluttered than our digital inboxes.

    Retrieving and opening the mail is something we set out to do. We are taking action to receive it. We sit down and scan through it on our own time. We are in control of the experience. Digital marketing channels interrupt our lives on their time schedule and we, in turn, have learned to ignore them until we choose to pay attention.

    The average American is exposed to over 1900 online advertisements in a month. Did you get 1900 pieces of mail last month?

    We can easily ignore pop-up ads and call to action banners but we can’t ignore the United States Postal Service. Bottom line…we make a conscious effort to respond to the mail.

    CARPE DIEM

    In no way are we suggesting that you abandon all your online marketing strategies and send out thousands of over-sized postcards. Digital marketing is here to stay and a formidable foe over print mediums. A multi-channel approach is the best approach.

    We are saying that direct mail is a classic, still competitive strategy for lead generation and return on your marketing investments.

    At a time when many are under the impression that direct mail is dying, the opportunity to capitalize on the less competitive inbox space is prime. With fewer people mailing, you have a greater chance of being noticed.

    Adding or combining a direct mail campaign with solid SEO digital marketing strategies serves to connect with your consumers on a more personal level, increase brand recognition and is a perfect marriage of today’s technology with yesterday’s values…It’s like asking Alexa to play the song from your senior prom!

    Already part of the Ai Healthcare Marketing family but want to see how direct mail can enhance your current marketing efforts? Not yet part of our family? Give us a call. We can help get your business in mailboxes before you can say “Casey Kasem”.