The Relevance of Direct Mail for New Patient Acquisition

The influence of direct mail is still stronger than many realize. According to Lob’s 2023 State of Direct Mail report, 74% of marketers swear by its unmatched ROI and response rates. In an age that focuses so much on digital marketing tactics and overflowing email inboxes, those very messages often go unnoticed.

Some think young people don’t like getting mail, but that’s not true, especially for millennials. With so many online ads, getting something physical in the mail is a welcome change. In fact, this mail spurs 57% of millennials to take action. 

Now baby boomers tend to trust mail more than online communications. They like the traditional way of getting information and don’t feel overwhelmed like they might from receiving too many digital messages. Then there’s Gen X. They’re into practical things and are largely independent. So if you send them helpful mail showing how your services can save time or money, they’re likely to pay attention.

And here’s a cool fact: On average, 5 out of 100 people respond to mail about things they might want (like dental care), and if it’s from people they already know (like their dentist’s office), that number jumps to 9 out of 100. Also, 62% of people say they do something because they got direct mail. So thanks to all the online noise, sending actual mail is a reliable way for dentists to find new patients and grow their practices.

3 Reasons Dentists Shouldn’t Overlook Direct Mail

Direct mail really can be your secret weapon in dental marketing, offering unique advantages that make it well worth the consideration. Let’s explore 3 compelling reasons why diving into direct mail can help you connect with your local community, stand out in their minds, and create personalized interactions that leave a lasting impact.

Reason 1: Targeted Local Reach

Direct mail offers a precise way to connect with local neighborhoods and specific demographics to ensure your message reaches the right audience. One powerful tactic is including your dental practice’s information in new mover packages, a smart move when welcoming newcomers to the area. (We’ll cover this more a bit later.)

Reason 2: Tangible and Memorable

The physical nature of direct mail makes it stand out, leaving a lasting impression on recipients. Direct mailers are unique and memorable in a world saturated with digital content. With less competition, dental practice advertisements garner more attention from consumers, which aids in brand recall. Building brand awareness relies on distinguishing your practice from competitors, and direct mail provides a tangible avenue to achieve just that.

Reason 3: Enhanced Personalization

Direct mail allows for a high level of personalization, ensuring that messages resonate with the target audience. Use a tool like Google Trends or AnswerThePublic to understand audience interests and questions. Studying successful competitors can provide additional insights on how to craft effective campaigns. By tailoring content to what engages and interests potential patients, you can create a more meaningful connection and increase the effectiveness of direct mail efforts.

3 Direct Mail Tactics To Incorporate Into Your Marketing Strategy Today

The Association of National Advertisers found that sending direct mail to prospect lists, particularly in letter-sized envelopes, yielded the highest ROI across all marketing channels. According to the organization’s 2021 report, direct mail outperformed SMS, email, paid search, social media advertising, and digital display advertising in terms of average ROI, ranging from 85% to 112%.

To leverage this impactful marketing channel, consider incorporating the following 3 direct mail tactics into your dental practice’s strategy:

New Mover Packages

Welcome new residents to your community by including your dental practice information in new mover packages. You could even insert a discount voucher for a specific service or product, such as a new patient exam or in-office whitening. By introducing your practice, highlighting your team’s experience, and showcasing your quality service, you can guide new residents to consider your practice for their dental needs.

Appointment Reminder Cards

Mail personalized appointment reminder cards to enhance patient engagement and reduce missed appointments. This tangible approach reinforces the importance of dental care and fosters a sense of connection between the patient and your practice.

Cosmetic Dental Brochures

Highlight cosmetic dental services through mailed brochures in letter-sized envelopes. Showcase offerings like teeth whitening, bonding, and veneers to educate and attract patients interested in enhancing their smiles. The tangible nature of mailed brochures keeps your services top of mind when they consider dental improvements.

Jameson Management & Marketing is your direct mail and digital marketing partner. 

Direct mail is a powerhouse, yielding the best ROI among various marketing channels. As your trusted marketing partner, Jameson Management & Marketing understands the unique value direct mail brings to dental practices. From targeted local reach to enhanced personalization, our expertise ensures your practice thrives. 

Be it reaching new residents with special offers, reminding patients of appointments via postcards, or highlighting services through brochures, we tailor each strategy for your success. Discover the potential of dental direct mail with the best dental marketing company. Enhance your patient acquisition game and reach out to Jameson today for a consultation.