What’s the first thing people do when they want information about a store, restaurant, or other local service? They do an online search. When new patients search for a new dentist in their area or existing patients need your office hours, phone number, or driving directions, they are most likely typing your name or “dentist near me” into their favorite search engine to pull up that information.
When these patients perform a search, they should find a clear and up-to-date business listing. Not only are business listings a practical way for patients to find you, but they are also an important piece of your overall marketing strategy. Along with your website, social media, reviews, and advertising, business directory sites are another way to promote your practice and make sure patients see you.
Increase Online Visibility
Adding your practice to multiple online business directories will increase your chances of being seen by those people searching for your services. Don’t stop at just one or two major listing sites and think you are covered. At a minimum, we recommend your practice be on the following top-10 rated listing sites:
- Google My Business
- Yellowpages.com
- Yelp
- Local.com
- Whitepages.com
- Manta.com
- Superpages.com
- Citysearch.com (business info must be added via InfoUSA’s ExpressUpdate.com)
First Impressions
Business listings are often the first impression people have of you. Think of them like a mini-website that provides your phone number and address as well as a sneak peek into your practice.
First, make sure to add your logo and practice information. There’s nothing more frustrating than a business listing that is half-complete or outdated. Remember to also review and refresh your listings regularly.
Most directories allow you to include photos and patient reviews. The more a business listing can tell patients about your practice, the better. It will keep them on your listing longer instead of searching for another dentist.
Reputation Management
Business listings are strategic in helping increase your online visibility. The more business directories you are on, the more credible your website will seem to Google and Bing, resulting in higher rankings on those sites.
It’s also important to keep your listings consistent across all directories. Some sites autofill your information. Inaccuracy or misspellings in your listing can lower Google’s confidence in your practice, not to mention hurt your chances with patients as well.
Claim Your Google My Business Listing
Google My Business is one of the top business directories we suggest you take advantage of. Along with your contact information, it clearly displays photos, reviews, and promotions. To claim your Google My Business listing:
- Create a Google account for your practice by going to google.com/business.
- Enter the name of your practice.
- Enter your business address.
- Choose your business category.
- Add your phone number and website.
- Choose which way you would like to verify your practice listing.
One of the top benefits of business listings is that they are free. While this is one reason they are sometimes overlooked as a marketing tool, they can play a critical role in the overall success of your practice.
With more than a decade of experience in corporate dental laboratory marketing and brand development, Ms. Ulasewich Cullen decided to take her passion for the dental business and marketing to the next level by founding My Dental Agency. Since starting her company, she and her team have helped a wide variety of business owners all over the nation focus their message, reach their target audience, and increase their sales through effective marketing campaigns. She can be reached at (800) 689-6434 or via email at jackie@mydentalagency.com.
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