A strong online presence is quickly becoming an increasingly important component of a dentist’s overall marketing plan. Today’s modern patients research a dentist and the practice online before they ever pick up the phone call to make their first appointment. So how can a dentist set their practice apart from the competition? The foundation of a solid online strategy is having a well-designed website.
Ask yourself – how long ago was your dental practice website designed? Even if it was just 2-3 years ago, the online marketing world has changed so much, and so fast, that a good website a few years ago simply won’t cut it in 2013.
Don’t panic just yet. Check out the below checklist to help you get started in determining whether your dental practice may be due for a new website, or a website update.
- Is your logo prominent on your website, particularly the homepage?
- Does your website consistently communicate your practice’s brand through its look, feel and colors?
- Is there a blog featured on the website? If not, is it possible to incorporate a blog easily?
- Are social media links present on the website?
- Is the practice’s contact information prominently displayed?
If your answer to any of the above questions was “No”, your dental practice website may be in need of a refresh. Whether you have been considering launching a completely new website, or merely bringing an existing site up to snuff, it is always important to work with a trusted web design expert, especially one with dental industry experience. A dental practice website can be an incredibly powerful marketing tool when implemented well and designed correctly.
Remember, the practice website is the springboard for a dentist’s online identity, so it’s important to make it the best possible reflection possible of the dentist and the practice.
Ever wonder if there was a meaningful difference between Likes and Check-ins on Facebook? There is a BIG difference, and understanding these differences are what can make your dental practice Facebook Page an even more effective online marketing tool.