In “Marketing Tips for Behavioral Health Providers – Part 1,” we provided two tips for behavioral health providers developing marketing programs in the today’s expanding landscape – (1) Define your differentiator, and (2) Build a turnkey marketing program.
The following are two more important marketing tips for behavioral health providers:
Tip #3: Develop a strong culture
Your team is your most important asset. Think of them as “brand ambassadors.” Each interaction they have with a patient – or even anyone on the street – is an opportunity to convey your practice’s message and strengthen its brand.
Make sure all members of your team clearly understand your company’s mission and are able to communicate it consistently. Consider implementing brand training into HR programs for new and existing staff. And, hosting staff appreciation events that motivate and inspire is a great way to remind your team what makes your practice special.
Tip #4: Make the corporate connection
Because patients work so closely with physicians and therapists, it’s natural that they will form a strong bond. That’s a good thing. However, it’s important that they also form a strong connection with the organization.
In the event that a therapist leaves your practice, it’s important that his or her patients know that they are in capable hands with another member of your team. Without a strong corporate connection, the tendency will be for the patient to follow their therapist to their new practice.
To establish this corporate connection, include several touch points in your marketing program where the organization communicates directly with the patient. This can include, but is not limited to, a formal new patient welcome letter, social media pages, a regular e-newsletter and patient surveys.
Remember, as your organization grows, your marketing program will need to do the same.
What marketing challenges is your behavioral health practice experiencing? Leave us a comment below – we’d love to hear from you!
