Digital Marketing – Not So Scary
- April 24, 2014
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Earlier this week, I had the privilege of attending the AAWD’s Empower You Web Cast: Social Media for Dentists: Game-Changing Tips for Your Dental Office’s Digital Footprint. I was one of about 25 participants in this interactive and informative webinar presented by Brad Newman of Dentainment. Brad provided some really great information about different social networks, how to empower your team as advocates, and the real, measurable benefits to focusing on digital marketing.
Digital marketing. That sounds so scary, doesn’t it? It sounds so contemporary, new-age, modern. But it truly doesn’t have to be as intimidating as it may sound.
Here’s a few suggestions to help get you started:
- Get your team involved!
These days, most people have some knowledge and experience to offer in the world of social media. Chances are, your team can help you. Did you know that you can assign more than one person as the “Admin” position on a business page? Carefully select 3 or 4 people to help you manage content and take some of the burden off yourself!
- Market unto others as you would have them market unto you.
We all have certain tactics that “work on us.” Personally, I’m a sucker for a contest. If I come across an opportunity to win something just by liking or commenting, I’m most likely going to participate. Think about what draws you in as a consumer and try it out on your own!
- Be consistent.
If you decide to make the commitment to social media, remember that it is, in fact, a commitment. Your page will not achieve the success you’re looking for if you don’t put in the time and effort it deserves. Try the 3&3 rule. Post on Facebook 3 times per week and on Twitter 3 times per day. Start there and adjust your content and frequency as needed.
- If at first you don’t succeed, try something else. For now.
There’s nothing wrong with failing. In fact, it’s not even failing. It’s an opportunity to learn and make modifications to your social media plan. If you try a contest and don’t get a great response, that’s okay! Next time, simply offer a product or service for free or discounted rate and see what happens. Or, post a survey. Or, just post anything. After you’ve tried a few different things, go back to the thing that failed and try again. The followers or friends you’ve gained in the meantime may be more willing to participate!
- Know your audience.
Always keep in mind who will be reading your posts. If your focus is pediatrics, make sure your posts center around things kids (or maybe more importantly, their parents) would want to see. If you live in Chicago, share activities or promotions happening in Chicago, not Los Angeles. Be relevant!
- Build relationships.
Social media is a powerful tool. It truly can help you form and strengthen relationships within your community. Every time you like or share someone else’s post, they get a notification. And you’ll get a notification when someone supports your content. Use those moments as an opportunity to say “Thanks for sharing!” or “Hope to see you there!”. You never know who you might meet at this virtual party.
Do you use social media on a regular basis? What works for you?
Tell us in a comment below!
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