Greetings Dear Ones,

Outdated marketing strategies revealed: Websites, search engine optimization, placement on google, yahoo and the like...

While a website is an important aspect of a successful systematized practice, it is only a part. And search engine optimization is overrated.  So let's just quickly review websites...you may recall an article I wrote about making your website sticky...you can find it here for review.

But if you really want online gold, you need to sow your seeds off line.

1. You need to really understand the needs of your perfect patient/client

2. Listen to, hear and respond to the needs of your perfect practice

3. Have business cards that put your perfect patient first

4. Make sure all your talks, as well as your writing, send your perfect potential patients to your website

All of these are relationship building activities...REAL PEOPLE want real relationships and the old high tech/high touch approach works only if you are selling dollars at a discount - not services where real people are involved.

So what are the low tech/high touch methods that will make a difference?

In our modern age of computers many opt for the high tech methods of keeping in touch.

In order to stand out from the crowed we need to zag instead of zig.

Low tech and high touch methods of keeping your face in front of your perspective clients is oh so very important.

It's about relationship building...one relationship at a time.

1. Your current clients - Asking for referrals after a good value-based conversation or a really positive session will lead to more referrals.

2. With past clients - Every week I call a few of my previous clients - ones that I have not seen in a while, and check in on them. I simply call and ask them how they are doing (very often this turns into an appointment).

3. Being a resource for your clients - You should have a powerful circle of professionals that you can refer your clients to: lawyers, doctors, etc...recently a client was in need of a lawyer and a construction company. He was so appreciative to get them and sent me 2 referrals the following week.

4. Strategic alliances - Those that serve your ideal client population. These are a constant source of referrals. Remember, you don't need many, you just need a few good ones. Keep in mind these are relationships and get established over time. Kinda like dating. They should be mutually beneficial.

5. Speaking - Giving talks is a great way of staying visible. When it comes to giving talks it is essential to remember that you have to establish a relationship with the members of your audience. Giving a good talk means that you are connecting with others. If you are unsure how to give good talks, and I am not talking about content, then get yourself to toastmasters and learn how. One reason I maintain a teaching position at a university is because it keeps me in front of a class talking!!!

6. Writing -  Believe it or not, it is not about writing well. It is about writing to one person. You know what I mean? When I speak to you when I write, I connect with you.....I am sure you understand...:-)

7. Everyone else you come in contact with - Making meaningful connections with people in your community no matter where they are. At the grocery store, dry cleaners, post office....There are people everywhere and it is your job to make contact.

My point here is kinda simple: Low Tech, High Touch.

Now get out there and become a relationship builder!

Many blessings!

Dr. Eric