How To Establish Your Practice as an Important Part of Your Community

Whether you operate your own practice or work at a group practice, business growth is likely a goal in mind. One of the most valuable ways to grow a business is closer than you may think—your community. 

As a dental professional, you’re in a people-oriented field dedicated to helping others. In addition to your scope of practice, you can uplift those around you by participating in various outreach programs to help others in need. There are many ways to get involved and numerous benefits you experience when establishing your brand as a pillar in the community.

Ways Your Practice Can Give Back

There is no one way to give back, and there are no limits on the number of times you can do it. Seek out a variety of ways that you and your team can help and find out what your community needs. If one initiative gains more traction than another, you at least have shared that experience as a team which only makes your practice more united. Here are some ideas on how you can get involved: 

• Match donations up to a certain amount to support a local charity 
• Sponsor a local sports team 
• Plan a day for employees who sign up to volunteer at a local charity for a few hours 
• Start your own fundraiser or charity drive and collect funds or supplies to donate to a charity of your choice 
• Offer free workshops or educational events for students to share your insights and educate students about careers in dentistry 
• Sponsor an event like another fundraiser, marathon, or festival in your area
• Make your own service award for an employee or several who have made a difference; this could be a monthly or annual award that keeps employees motivated while recognizing their hard work 
• Offer free services or exams through a campaign focused on providing free treatment to those who could not otherwise afford it

One of the ways we’ve given back at WildSmiles is by partnering with Smiles Change Lives, a nonprofit that helps families receive the orthodontic treatment for their children who could not otherwise afford it. WildSmiles donates 5% of our total revenue from Smiles Change Lives providers and it’s been incredible to see children receive the care they normally wouldn’t be able to receive. This partnership has been a wonderful way to give back and we’re excited to continue making orthodontic treatment accessible to more people. If you’re interested in forming a partnership with a nonprofit, research the different organizations available and choose one that aligns with your practice’s values and mission. 

How Your Practice Benefits From Community Outreach

Helping those in need is simply the right thing to do. Individuals and businesses that see the difference you’re making may feel more inclined to do the same and together, you build a stronger community for everyone. This type of active involvement sets your brand apart and in addition to helping others in need, you experience many benefits that drive practice growth.

Increase Brand Visibility

The more you give back, the more visibility you bring to your business. Brand visibility or brand awareness refers to how familiar your audience is with your brand. Making positive contributions to your neighborhood will create a positive connection between your brand and giving back. People will learn about your business when they see or hear about an outreach initiative and share it with others. The more people talk about you, the more likely you are to attract new patients. 

Establish Trust 

People choose businesses they trust. In addition to providing exceptional service and results, you can gain trust by engaging with your community. This is a powerful way to set yourself apart from the competition and become a leader of positivity through your philanthropic efforts. When patients and referrals hear about the time and resources you’re dedicating to make a difference, they’re more likely to trust your practice because they’ve seen how you help those in need. 

Create a Positive Work Culture

Your actions are a direct reflection of your brand’s values. Community outreach generates a positive work culture that employees are excited to be a part of. Many people share the desire to help others, and giving your team the opportunity to give back can make them feel amazing and more productive to help your business succeed. Planning and carrying out any type of outreach involves everyone working toward a common goal outside of the normal scope of work, which is an excellent way to strengthen your team and generate a positive culture at your practice that employees are excited to be a part of. 

Grow Your Online Presence

Any type of outreach is a new opportunity to grow your business online. Upcoming events or campaigns are great ways to engage with audiences on social media and share news coverage. When you post shareable content or new ways for others to give back, you bring more attention to your brand in a positive way. More attention can also drive more reviews and attract new patients when they hear about all the good things your practice is doing. 

We all have a shared responsibility to make the world a better place. By giving back, you can help others in need and fuel your brand’s growth at the same time.