Reaching the top of the Google ladder

In a series of interviews available on the Dental Focus ® YouTube channel, CEO Krishan Joshi has shared some invaluable insights into the world of online dental marketing, along with his tips on how to build the perfect dental practice website…

In the world of online dental marketing, Google page 1 is everything. As the world’s most popular search engine, your Google ranking is an important indicator of just how well your dental website is working for you. If your practice doesn’t appear on page 1 for common search terms relating to your practice then it’s not working to its maximum potential, and you may miss out on new patients as a result.

Content is key

To achieve Google page 1, the first thing you need to consider is your content. In Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), content is absolutely key. We know that Google ranks website based on over 200 different criteria, but of these the most important factors relate to the quality and relevance of your website content.

By relevance here, we mean to say that it is: factually correct; related to the things that you do; and tailored for your specific audience. If you target market is mainly older patients then your content will need to be written with an older audience in mind. After all, these patients may have different needs and wants to younger patients, and will often prefer a different tone and style. Remember, Google takes into account a whole range of different factors when ranking your website, including how long users spend reading each page. If users don’t find your content relevant, or indeed useful and click away quickly, then your Google rank will drop as a result.

Tips for success

As well as ensuring your content is fresh, relevant and up-to-date, there are a number of other steps you can take to get the most out of your practice website. Firstly, you should ensure your branding is clean and clear. Patients need to know where they are and should have easy access to features that let them contact you. Your telephone number should be included at the top of every page, and should be text and not an image, so patients can click on it.

Your team page is another important page to consider. Professional photographs can make a real difference in the way you are perceived. As well as all the relevant GDC-compliance information, you should also seek to include key details that help to emphasise the unique selling points of your practice. If you are pushing your expertise, then make sure your team page reflects this. For even better results in Google, you should aim to create a separate page for each member of clinical staff so patients can find you when they search Google using a dentist’s name.

Learn from the Master

Online dental marketing is not easy, and requires a great deal of time and effort to get right. However, help is out there, and can take the first steps to online success by visiting the Dental Focus ® YouTube channel today. There you will find a series of 12 fascinating videos, where Ashley Latter interviews internet marketing expert and Dental Focus ® CEO Krishan Joshi on his top tips on how you can put your practice on the Google map, and generate real sustained business growth for your practice.

For more information call 020 7183 8388, or visit www.dentalfocus.com