5 Tips to Use Social Media as a Dental Office Assistant
Social media is an important part of the professional sphere. It acts as a business model, helping interact with your clientele, and also serves as a networking platform as you delve into a new career. Below are a few tips that you should keep in mind when using social media as a Dental Office Assistant.
Key Use of Communication
Communication in any realm can make or break a relationship. Many dental clients, for instance, use social media to find providers. They will ask for recommendations from media platforms such as Facebook, and they also read through reviews on Yelp. Some may do a Google search “dentists near my location” and then read the Google comments to find a provider with “good” ratings.
Staying in good standing on social media is important, both as a business and as an individual. If your office has a website or social media accounts, it is important to stay active and post relevant content. Social media helps project a company’s brand, either as good or bad, so it is best to paint your business in the best light possible. Social media helps bridge this gap in communication, effectively detailing the products and services you offer.
Social Media Etiquette
What happens if someone gives your office a “bad” review? Do NOT get into a social media battle with them. Speak to the dentist/owner and make them aware of the situation. Often it is just a minor misunderstanding that can easily be corrected with a phone call.
The prompt: “I understand you were not happy with your last dental visit. I apologize for any misunderstandings. What can I do to help correct this situation?” goes a long way in showing customer appreciation. Show that you are more concerned about THEM than you are about a poor review. The patient should always come first.
Utilizing Social Media Posts
You can improve your social media presence by being proactive. A professionally-done website will show the type of dentistry your office offers by showing before and after photos. Cosmetic dentistry is what draws people in—they all want that Hollywood smile.
A “Meet Our Staff” page will tell the patient about you before they arrive. They may ask for you specifically if you have the same interests, and it is important to generate this conversation!
Some people may grow anxious in a dentist’s office, and it is important to dispel these fears through an approachable and easy going personality. Remember to not share anything too personal, just making conversation to put them at ease.
Breaking Through With Blogs
Short blog type posts can promote your office. A picture is worth a thousand words. For example, showcasing a photo of your staff presenting toothbrushes to a woman’s shelter or your office sponsoring a Little League baseball team shows interest in the community. Or a photo of your staff giving a presentation during Children’s Dental Health month can be impactful. Even a photo of your staff at an office picnic will show the comradery of the dental team.
If your office is involved in the community, it would be foolish to not share this relationship with the world! Take note of good imagery, and make sure to capitalize on it.
Tips About Social Media Presence
Social media works personally and professionally from a student looking for employment to a dental office trying to reach new patients. You need to present yourself in a very professional and positive light. Prospective employers can very easily look up your social media account to see what type of person you are.
Many job applications now require you to provide your social media accounts so that they can do a deep search to ensure you align with the company vision. Even overqualified candidates could be denied a position, simply due to controversial tweets or an insensitive Instagram story.
Social media is a very powerful tool in communication. It can have a very positive effect both personally and professionally when used properly, but it can also be very damaging if you are careless.
Keeping these tips in mind, social media can become your main communication tool as a Dental Office Assistant. Though offices may not have the budget to have an in-house social media advisor, consider pitching your ideas to the office, as dedication to the company’s success helps improve your job security.
