Whether you are just getting your orthodontics practice off the ground, or you have been around a few years and are hoping to expand, there are bound to be growing pains. However, if you are willing to learn from the experience of others, you will find that growth comes a little easier.
Five steps you should follow to become a fast-growing orthodontics practice
1.Hire the Right People
In any orthodontics or medical office, the people make all of the difference. From top to bottom, make sure your employees are the very best. Take your time during the hiring process and make sure you hire the very best. You will find that it is well worth the effort, and you will save money in the long run on re-training expenses too. You have probably heard the story of the CEO talking to his CFO. The CEO, concerned with the cost of additional training asks the question, “what if we train them and they leave?” to which the CFO responds, “what if we don’t, and they stay?”. Investing in the growth of your employees is vital!
2.Offer Excellent Service
With everything you do, make sure you are always providing superior service to your patients. Be there to answer questions, call with appointment reminders and encourage everyone in your office to be friendly and personable before, during and after every procedure. The results will pay-off as you develop a reputation for being one of the friendliest offices in the area.
3.Get to Know Your Patients
When you get to know your patients, you can provide superior service. Not only that, but your patients will appreciate it too. This means making sure that you remember their name when they come in for an appointment. Have the office call and wish them a happy birthday. Don’t forget to ask your patients about their family members (especially if they are also patients of yours). This extra level of patient care will set you apart from the other offices.
4.Get Social (Media)
Social media is where people meet and communicate today. That means this is where you need to be to interact with your patients too. Create a page on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram—at the very least. This will allow you to engage with your patients and develop a rapport with them outside of the office. You may also gain some traction as far as marketing to new patients in this manner too.
5.Be Part of the Community
While social media is key, it does not replace getting out there and getting to know your patients on a one-on-one basis. Do everything you can to become part of your community. Attend local fairs and festivals. Get to know other nearby business owners or even consider joining groups like the local Chamber of Commerce. By doing this, you will be more recognizable and become one of the “good guys” instead of just another orthodontist.
As you can see, growing your practice takes a lot of effort, but it is certainly worth your time to invest in something as important as your practice. One other way that you may be able to help your practice grow is by purchasing office software that can help improve overall efficiency for your workplace. One of the best options is Weave. You can check out Weave and learn more about how it can work for you at www.getweave.com
