Dos and don'ts for practice production: Patient referrals

Don't hesitate to ask for patient referrals

Some dentists believe it is inappropriate to ask for patient referrals. In fact, this makes little sense. Truly satisfied patients will not think less of you for asking. If patients are happy with what you have done, they will often be more than happy to tell friends and family.

Take advantage of a great opportunity. Happy patients will often gladly serve as a walking advertisement for your office. They will mention your office to others and even provide information about procedures they underwent. In a way, they may already be starting your case presentation for you. What could be better than a new patient coming to your practice already "presold" on a procedure?

Don't be shy about asking. Getting this kind of enthusiastic patient referral doesn't take any prodding from you, just some encouragement. Soliciting a successful patient referral is as simple as letting your patients know that recommendations are appreciated.