5 Tips for Getting More Appointments on the Books
Updated: Oct 13
You’ve worked hard to make your practice a success. You’ve assembled a world-class team, invested in cutting edge equipment and a beautiful facility, and developed a system of care that includes every modern treatment option available. So, why aren’t you booking more appointments?
Aside from traditional means, like advertising, here are a few things you can start doing today to help generate more business and get your practice rolling toward greater growth and profits.
Establish and Nurture Relationships
First and foremost, you can’t rely on solely new business to keep your practice running strong. You need those loyal clients who come back year after year, pet after pet and generation after generation. Accomplishing this depends heavily on how strong your relationships are with your current book of business. That’s really your differentiator. Treat clients with respect, make them feel heard and understood and bond with their pets. Not only will they return the favor with ongoing business, but they’ll also recommend you to their friends and family members.
Use Reminders
It may seem pretty straightforward, but you’d be surprised at how many busy pet parents simply forget to schedule that next appointment. Unless your client management system supports scheduling a year in advance (which most don’t), it’s up to you to keep your vet clinic at the top of your clients’ minds. Invest in a good reminder system that will help keep that repeat business coming through the doors on a regular basis.
Consider Strategic Partnerships
Think about other animal-related businesses that are in your local area, such as groomers, boarding facilities, trainers or even pet stores. You all likely share many of the same customers and can therefore benefit from establishing strategic partnerships with one another. For instance, you could recommend a certain pet sitting service to a client in need and, in turn, that pet sitting company can send business your way as well. It’s a win-win!
Leverage Social Media
The beauty of social media is that it’s opened so many doors to be able to connect and engage with clients on a much larger scale while also nurturing those all-important relationships along the way. Take advantage of these tools that are available to you, particularly Facebook, and use them to communicate the human side of your practice. (Bonus: here are some social media do’s and don’ts from the DVMelite team.)
Offer a Referral Program
You’ve gone out of your way to deliver first-class service and develop valuable relationships with your existing clientele. Why not tap into this pool of satisfied customers to generate some new business? Don’t be afraid to ask for referrals and consider offering something in return, such as a discount on future services for every new client that books an appointment based on their recommendation.
Your veterinary practice will only be successful if you keep a steady flow of new and repeat clientele coming through the doors on a regular basis. The five simple strategies above can help you make some headway in this area.
If you’re still struggling or just aren’t seeing the numbers go in the direction you’re hoping for, it may be time to consult with an expert. The DVMelite team has helped hundreds of practices realize incredible, sustainable growth and we can do the same for yours as well. Contact us today for a free consultation.
