Over the last year, we have heard from many Sharper™ customers how tough it has been due to the economic meltdown and the slow recovery period.  Though times may be challenging, we have received some excellent money saving ideas from customers via our Your Opinion Counts survey.  These ideas are great for budgeting, especially for the Holiday season when spending is expected to increase substantially.

One great idea is keep track of customer’s birthdays via your practice management software and then send a birthday card with a message to acknowledge a patients special day, and to also remind of an upcoming appointment (or the need to book an appointment).  You’ll cover two occasions with just one card – with extra impact.  Make things even easier for front administration staff by using laser cards, which can be printed conveniently in your office.

Another great tip we’ve received from the survey is to avoid purchasing both business cards and appointment cards.  Rather purchase just the business cards and ask for an appointment reminder to be printed on the back.

And remember to hand out lots of custom business cards to your patients, asking them to pass along to family and friends.  Stimulating referrals is one of the most cost-affordable dental patient acquisition activities around.

Moreover, combining promotional products together can be a great cost-saving strategy to help market your business or practice.  For example, our Design Your Own Personalized Tote Bags are an inexpensive way to market your business or practice.  Economical, our plastic recyclable tote bags are a convenient way to package up supplies, giveaways and educational materials that promote your service.   This way, you can maximize your marketing exposure with one package instead of sending out individual products multiple times a year.

In this tough economy it is more important than ever to retain current patients and clients.  And, there is no better time than the Holidays to show customers your appreciation for their patronage.

A good business practice during the recession recovery phase is to be proactive, smart and business savvy.  Don’t let the economy dictate your business – stay in charge and you’ll surely experience the benefits of your hard work.