Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you probably have heard of social media networks like facebook and myspace.
And, like most professionals, have made the misconception that social media is “just a fad” or “just for teenagers”.
Well, neither assumptions are true. Social media is here to stay.
Case in point, take a look at the following graph provided by USAToday.com:
An astounding 35% of adult Internet users now have a profile on at least one social networking site. And, among online adults ages 35-44, 30% have a profile.
According to Cate Riegner, vice president of Netpop Research, social networking grew 93% in the two years between 2006 and 2008. What is even more amazing is that Facebook grew 500%.
What this is telling us is that more and more people no matter what their age are turning to social media networking sites to connect with family, friends and businesses.
So, as a chiropractor, if you want to be able to connect with people more effectively, efficiently and successfully, you must start using social media as part of your marketing plan.
Now, for some of you, social media may be something you’ve heard about but simply do not understand. If that’s you, then let me define what social media is so that you’ll have a better understanding.
Social media is an online community residing within any number of platforms like facebook and myspace for the soul intent of sharing text, photos, audio files and videos with friends, family, business colleagues, etc…
In other words, the term social media often refers to activities that integrate technology, telecommunications and social interaction among people.
As an entrepreneur, you need to be interacting with both patients and prospects alike through these social media platforms. This is where the masses are!
You may be asking yourself, “Okay, but which one do I join?”
Great question!
Matter of fact, since there are so many to choose from, we’ll devote our next post to helping you weed through the choices which will make your decision much easier.
But, before you go, watch the following video by Common Craft titled Social Media in Plain English. Also, if there are any questions or thoughts you’d like to share with me or other readers, please take the time to leave your comments in the {comments} section below.
About Dr. Patrick MacNamara
Really enjoying the process you are leading people on. I am aware of most of what you have posted so far but am loving the simplicity with which you are presenting it.
Well done
Dr. Moore — I’m glad to see that most of the material I’m covering isn’t anything new to you. You are definitely the exception within our profession.
My goal with this blog is to first build a strong foundation on the basics. This way I’ll have ample posts archived that can be referenced in future posts as the subject matter becomes more advanced.
In the mean time, either check back often or make sure you subscribe to the RSS feed so that you’ll know when the new content is available.
Also, I’d love your feedback, insight or opinion with any future post. If there are things you’re utilizing that are working for you, sharing them with other colleagues will only enrich the site.
Thanks for stopping by and for your kind remarks!
Great job Dr. MacNamara. I am spending more time looking, learning. Things are making more sense. Thanks for help with seeing the big picture!
Dr. Ringsdorf :: Glad things are coming into focus for you, doc! And, thanks for stopping by the site. I do appreciate it!
Even though it has been slow for me to learn, I AM learning and appreciate your content for the newbies out there!
Always a pleasure, Dr. Anderson. I’m glad you’re learning. If you weren’t, I’d need to rethink the purpose of this blog!
This is so true, and not only for chiropractors but all health and wellness professionals. Patients today want to take a proactive role in managing their health. They are searching online for resources that help them to make the best choices.
Blogging, producing quality website content and actively using social media marketing tools helps your practice to appear in those searches.
You are actually doing a service to your community by being involved in social media and sharing information about your skills, techniques and specialties. One great testimonial on your Facebook business page can convert a tire kicker into a new patient.
Thanks, Jayna, for your input. It definitely added to the context of this post. Hope all is well in Minnesota.
All is well in Minnesota. In fact we are holding a Wellness Practice Marketing seminar in Minneapolis this Saturday. I wish you were here to contribute your expertise!
Sounds fun! I would’ve enjoyed participating.