• VMP 283: Colin Hebert From Chckup Reveals How To Unlock Your Practice's Secret Data Goldmine
    Sep 27 2024

    In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Colin from Chckup about the transformative power of data in veterinary practices. We dove deep into how leveraging practice management software and online booking systems can significantly enhance operations, drive growth, and improve client engagement. This episode is packed with key insights and actionable advice for veterinary professionals looking to optimize their practices.

    We started by discussing the critical role of data in veterinary practices. Data offers invaluable insights into client behavior, operational efficiency, and revenue drivers. Colin emphasized the importance of tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as revenue sources, appointment types, and client segments. By understanding these metrics, practices can make informed decisions that enhance service offerings and client satisfaction. We also explored how practice management software can streamline operations by automating processes and simplifying data management. Colin shared how Checkup provides tools that automatically pull relevant data and present it in an actionable format, making it easier for practice managers to review daily performance metrics and make necessary adjustments.

    We then shifted our focus to optimizing online booking systems. A user-friendly online booking system is essential for modern veterinary practices, as it not only increases appointment volume but also provides valuable data on client preferences and behaviors. Colin pointed out that online booking can guide practices in making informed decisions about where to invest their resources. We also discussed the importance of follow-up reminders to reduce no-show rates and how online booking systems can free up staff to focus on building relationships with clients. Finally, we touched on effective marketing strategies, including the importance of multiple touchpoints, collecting client reviews, and segmenting clients to tailor marketing efforts. This episode underscores the necessity for veterinary practices to embrace data-driven strategies and implement effective communication tools to thrive in a competitive market.

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    45 mins
  • VMP 282: Arielle Putter Shares How To Succeed With Short Form Content In Your Veterinary Practice
    Sep 18 2024

    In a recent episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Arielle Putter, a seasoned social media and content creator marketer with a rich background in veterinary marketing from her time at Spot On Veterinary Hospital. Now focusing on consulting for veterinary practices and brands, Arielle shared some incredible insights on how digital marketing can transform veterinary practices. We dove deep into social media strategies, especially the power of TikTok and short-form video content, to boost visibility and engagement with potential clients.

    One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of authenticity over production. Arielle pointed out that audiences today are drawn to genuine, relatable content rather than overly polished videos. This trend is part of a broader "de-influencing" movement where consumers are becoming more skeptical of traditional marketing tactics. She emphasized capturing real moments within the practice, like behind-the-scenes looks or spontaneous pet moments, and embracing imperfections. We also discussed effective engagement strategies, such as using humor and timely comments on trending videos, and the growing trend of using TikTok as a search engine. Arielle shared her experiences and actionable advice on optimizing content for search, balancing original content with trends, and leveraging AI for efficiency while maintaining a human touch. This episode is packed with valuable insights for any veterinary practice looking to enhance its digital marketing efforts.

    If you're looking to refine your strategy or just starting out, Arielle's advice on identifying your unique niche and involving your team in content creation can provide a solid roadmap for success. Don't miss out on this episode, and feel free to reach out to Arielle at Ariellejune@gmail.com or connect with her on LinkedIn for more expert guidance.

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    52 mins
  • VMP 281: Dr. Mike Walker Shares His Veterinary Branding, Marketing & Social Media Secrets To Success
    Aug 20 2024

    In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Mike Walker, the owner of Apollo Veterinary in Wimberley, Texas. Dr. Walker has done an incredible job of building and growing his practice since its inception in September 2021. We dove deep into his journey, discussing everything from branding and marketing strategies to the importance of creating a strong company culture. If you're looking to build and market your veterinary practice effectively, this episode is packed with actionable advice and detailed insights.

    Dr. Walker shared some fantastic tips on holistic branding, emphasizing that it's not just about a logo or a name but about creating a brand story that resonates with clients and reflects your practice's values. For instance, he chose the name "Apollo" after his dog and grandfather, giving the brand a personal touch that isn't tied to a specific location. He also talked about the importance of intentional choices in branding, like selecting calming colors and implementing an open-concept clinic design to foster transparency and trust. On the marketing front, Dr. Walker highlighted the power of social media, stressing the need for consistency and authenticity in your posts. He shared how real, behind-the-scenes content can create genuine connections with your audience and even attract potential employees by showcasing your clinic's culture and work environment.

    We also touched on some effective marketing strategies for new clinics, such as building a pre-opening email list and using Google Ads to attract new clients. Dr. Walker shared some innovative ideas like offering high-perceived value promotions during the grand opening and actively participating in community events to build strong relationships and trust. He also discussed the benefits of leveraging technology to enhance client communication and engagement, like using automated reminders and offering online scheduling. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Walker emphasized the importance of authenticity and professional help, preferring genuine client testimonials over polished influencer promotions and outsourcing tasks like digital marketing to professionals. By prioritizing these strategies, veterinary practices can thrive in a competitive market, attracting and retaining clients while fostering a loyal and motivated team.

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    55 mins
  • VMP 280: Client Acquisition Strategies When Your Veterinary Practice Is Growing, Stagnant or Dying
    Aug 1 2024

    In our latest episode, we dive deep into the world of marketing strategies specifically designed for veterinary practices. Whether you're a startup in urgent need of clients, a practice that's hit a plateau, or one that's experiencing rapid growth and struggling to manage the influx, this episode has got you covered. I break down these practices into three distinct groups and offer actionable insights to help you attract, engage, and retain clients effectively.

    One of the key points I emphasize is the importance of tracking where your clients are coming from. Knowing your client sources is foundational for any marketing strategy. I recommend using tools like Google Analytics and CallRail to monitor and analyze this data. CallRail even offers a free two-week trial, making it easy for you to start tracking your marketing effectiveness. I also introduce the 80/20 rule, which suggests that 80% of your marketing efforts may not yield significant results, while 20% will drive the majority of client growth. Identifying and focusing on that 20% is crucial, and without proper tracking, you might end up wasting resources on ineffective strategies.

    For practices in urgent need of clients or those experiencing stagnation, I stress the importance of fixing the bottom of the marketing funnel—where potential clients convert into actual clients. This involves training your customer service representatives (CSRs) to handle inquiries effectively, engaging with potential clients on a personal level, and implementing follow-up systems to enhance client loyalty. Additionally, having an efficient online booking system, like Checkup App, can streamline the booking process and send reminders to clients, ensuring they return for follow-up visits. By diagnosing whether your practice has a marketing or sales problem and targeting clients strategically, you can craft a unique selling proposition that sets your practice apart in a competitive market. Tune in to this episode for a comprehensive guide to enhancing your marketing efforts and improving client acquisition.

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    28 mins
  • VMP 279: The Biggest Veterinary Marketing Lessons From 10 Years of Podcasting
    Jul 20 2024

    I can't believe it's been ten years since we started this journey together! To celebrate this incredible milestone, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the top ten marketing lessons I've learned over the past decade. This episode is packed with timeless insights and actionable advice to help you elevate your veterinary practice's digital marketing strategies. So, let's dive in and explore these invaluable lessons that have stood the test of time.

    First up, setting clear goals is absolutely crucial. Without defined objectives, it's tough to measure your efforts or make necessary adjustments. Start by identifying what you want to achieve, whether it's more client appointments, increased social media engagement, or higher revenue. Make sure your marketing goals align with your broader business objectives and use specific metrics to track your progress. Next, breaking down marketing activities into smaller steps can make the whole process less overwhelming. Map out the customer journey, identify key touchpoints, and focus on improving one area at a time. This way, you can create a more targeted and effective strategy.

    Another key lesson is the importance of measurement and tracking. Data is your best friend when it comes to understanding the performance of your marketing efforts. Set key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your goals and use tools like Google Analytics to gather meaningful data. Regularly review this data to identify trends and make necessary adjustments. Targeting niche audiences can also make a huge difference. By creating specific and relevant messaging tailored to your ideal client, you can achieve more effective marketing results. Identify your niche, tailor your messaging, and use targeted advertising to reach your audience more effectively. And don't forget about differentiation and your unique selling proposition (USP). In a competitive market, standing out is crucial. Identify what sets you apart, communicate your USP clearly, and maintain consistent branding across all channels. These lessons, along with creating compelling offers, testing with organic content, amplifying existing strengths, maintaining consistency, and expressing gratitude, form a comprehensive roadmap for veterinary professionals looking to enhance their digital marketing strategies. Here's to another decade of growth, learning, and impactful marketing!

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    25 mins
  • VMP 278: How To Actually Reimagine Veterinary Care With Dr. Cody Creelman
    Jul 19 2024

    In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Cody Creelman, the visionary founder of Fen Vet and a veterinarian who manages multiple practices. We dove deep into his innovative approach to veterinary care, discussing everything from the importance of exceptional customer experiences to fostering an innovative practice culture and thinking from first principles in both business and veterinary medicine. This episode is packed with actionable advice and detailed insights that are sure to inspire veterinary professionals and practice owners alike.

    Dr. Creelman shared his ambitious vision for creating a seven-star customer experience at Fen Vet, inspired by a TED talk on paradigm shifts in business. He believes that disruption is inevitable in every industry and aims to proactively implement a paradigm shift in veterinary medicine to ensure the longevity of his career. We talked about how he meticulously pays attention to every touchpoint in the customer journey, from a user-friendly and visually appealing website to a welcoming clinic ambiance with curated scents and high-end design. Dr. Creelman also discussed the importance of educating clients about available options, which not only enhances the customer experience but also opens up new revenue streams for the practice.

    Creating an amazing practice culture is another cornerstone of Dr. Creelman's strategy. He emphasized the importance of authenticity and transparency in marketing, which has been instrumental in attracting top talent and building a positive reputation for his clinics. We also explored his comprehensive marketing strategy, which includes content creation, social media management, and local event activation. Dr. Creelman shared his experiences with high-production video content on YouTube, highlighting the challenges and the importance of personal connection in video content. Lastly, we discussed his approach to innovation, including proactive adaptation to industry shifts, strategic expansion, and the vision of building a centralized concept with a 24-hour hospital. Dr. Creelman's insights provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to enhance their practice’s customer journey, build a positive culture, or expand strategically.

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    55 mins
  • VMP 277: Dr. Glenn Robinson Shares How Veterinary Practices Can Build Strong Teams and Attract the Right Clients
    Jun 26 2024

    In this episode, I have an amazing conversation with Dr. Glenn Robinson from Southwest Veterinary Solutions. We really dig into what it takes to build a thriving veterinary practice, touching on everything from creating effective teams and fostering a strong clinic culture to attracting the right clients and talent. Dr. Robinson brings a wealth of experience to the table and shares some incredibly actionable advice that I think you'll find invaluable.

    One of the key points Dr. Robinson emphasizes is the importance of having a clear mission, vision, and core values. These aren't just buzzwords; they are the guiding principles that shape your entire team and help attract clients and staff who truly resonate with your practice's ethos. We also talk about the importance of setting achievable goals. Whether it's a long-term five-year plan or a short-term 90-day action plan, having clear objectives ensures continuous progress and keeps everyone on the same page.

    On the marketing front, Dr. Robinson has some great insights into targeted strategies. He points out that different demographics respond to different platforms—like Facebook for older pet owners and Instagram or TikTok for the younger crowd. This kind of targeted approach can really make your marketing efforts more effective. He also stresses the importance of continuous recruitment efforts. Even if you're fully staffed, it's crucial to always be on the lookout for new talent to prepare for growth and any unforeseen circumstances. By aligning your practice's identity with your marketing efforts and continuously investing in your team, you can create a successful and sustainable veterinary practice.

    So, if you're a veterinary practice owner or manager looking to take your clinic to the next level, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice that you won't want to miss. Tune in to hear more from Dr. Robinson and get ready to implement some game-changing strategies in your practice!

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    55 mins
  • VMP 276: The Comprehensive Google Ads Overview For Veterinary Practices
    May 29 2024

    In this episode, we're unpacking everything you need to know about Google Ads for your vet practice. It's like finding a map to buried treasure, but instead of gold, it's full of strategies to attract the perfect pet parents to your clinic. We're not just talking about any clicks here; we're aiming for clicks that count, clicks that turn into loyal clients who trust you with their furry friends.

    Now, let's chat about the magic of targeting the right crowd. Picture this: you're not casting a wide net hoping to catch a few fish; you're choosing the right bait for the fish you want. That's the minimum viable audience for you. It's about getting super specific with who you're talking to, so your message hits home every time. And when it comes to where your ads show up, it's a whole buffet of options. Search campaigns are your go-to, but there's also this new kid on the block called Performance Max campaigns. They're like the smart kids in class, using all the data to make sure your ad gets seen by folks who are actually looking for vet services.

    But hey, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. We've got to talk about the pitfalls too, like those sneaky smart campaigns that might drain your budget faster than a puppy chews a slipper. And then there's the art of choosing the right keyword match types – it's a balancing act. Plus, we can't forget about display and shopping ads. They've got their quirks, but they can work wonders for your brand and online store if you play your cards right.

    So, to wrap this up, mastering Google Ads is like being a digital marketing wizard for your vet practice. It's about making smart choices, analyzing the heck out of your data, and always keeping your eye on the prize – helping pets and their humans. Tune in to the episode, and let's take your practice to the next level together. Here's to making your vet practice the talk of the town (or the internet, in this case). Catch you on the podcast!

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    29 mins