Have you heard of the Rule of 7? It suggests that potential clients need at least seven interactions with your brand before they’re ready to make a decision. That means you need to build trust and connection over time to grow your practice. In this post, we’ll explore practical and low-cost ways to strengthen relationships with current and potential clients, turning trust into referrals. Whatever strategy you choose, remember: stay consistent, be authentic, and give it time!

1. Examine Demographics

• Identify patterns in your current clients to tailor your marketing.

• Example: Write for a local publication if most clients share geography.

2. Social Proof

• Ask for Google reviews and client testimonials.

• Share these on your website, at conferences, or in ads to build credibility.

3. Celebrate Milestones

• Recognize client achievements like birthdays or therapy goals.

• Simple gestures like thank-you cards or branded items go a long way.

4. Referral Gifts

• Show appreciation for client referrals with small, thoughtful gifts.

• Be mindful not to frame these as “referral rewards” - we can’t do that as healthcare providers.

5. Ask for Feedback

• Create simple feedback forms to understand how you can improve.

• Open communication builds stronger relationships and loyalty.

6. Create a Persona

• If you’re starting out and don’t have clients yet, define your ideal client.

• Consider their needs, traits, and preferences to guide your marketing strategy.  Get specific!

By focusing on these six strategies, you can build stronger connections with your clients and foster a community that supports and recommends your practice. Remember, good work and meaningful relationships are the foundation of long-term success in private practice.