Working as a complementary and alternative therapist can be rewarding and liberating. You work for yourself, create your schedule, and help people regain their vitality.
But self-employment comes with downsides. You may struggle to find new clients and grow your business sustainability. It’s increasingly important to think of effective ways to reach new clients.
In this blog, we share 10 helpful strategies for growing your complementary therapist practice. Whether you’ve been in the business for years or are just starting, our tips can benefit anyone looking for new client leads.
1. Define your target market
The first step to finding a steady stream of new clients is to define your target market. This makes it easier to focus on your ideal clients.
- Are you looking for open-minded people?
- Do you want clients local to your area, or can you offer online consultations?
- How old is your ideal client? What are their interests?
Think about your ideal client and where they might spend time (online and offline).
2. Expand your online reach with a website
Creating a professional website that showcases who you are, your qualifications (including completed complementary therapist courses), work experience, services, and contact details is essential to attract new clients. Your website should be easy to navigate, and your contact details and links to your social media clearly visible. Adding a contact form can make it easier for people to reach out.
Consider adding a blog section to your website where you write about the benefits of your complementary therapy for different conditions and symptoms. It helps potential clients find out more about your experience and services.
3. Expand your online reach through directory sites
Let’s face it; most of us spend a lot of time online. For this reason, expanding your online visibility through directory websites, local Facebook groups, and Google business is the foundation of any good marketing strategy.
Online directory sites like our Treatwiser directory allow users to search for complementary therapy services by category, qualification, location, and professional membership.
Google is also invaluable for increasing your online presence – it’s the most used search engine globally. A free Google My Business listing tells people your opening hours, location, services, prices, reviews, and website. In a few easy steps, your location will appear on Google when people in your area search for complementary therapy services.
Facebook is another platform where you can advertise your services and answer questions. Join local community groups and wellness support groups to reach potential new clients.
4. Build your social media presence
Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn are among the best places to share information about your services and engage with potential clients. These platforms also allow you to create targeted ads that reach people based on location and interests.
It takes time to build your social media profile, but it’s worth it to earn trust with your audience.
5. Advertise in areas your target market frequent
Once you’ve identified your target market, you can explore posting adverts in areas where these clients spend time. This may be community notice boards, local coffee shops, post offices, nearby gyms, juice bars, or local yoga studios.
In addition, consider taking adverts out in local newspapers or magazines – or offering to write articles for the publication about health and wellness. This may increase your visibility to people who are not be active online.
6. Form networks with other therapists
Partnering with other practitioners allows you to reach a wider audience – you can suggest doing joint promotions or workshops to expand your reach. You can also offer discounted sessions or products to their clients, and vice versa.
LinkedIn is the best networking site for connecting with other complementary health practitioners.
7. Partner with other wellness businesses
Partnering with other health and wellness businesses may help you reach a wider audience and increase credibility. You can sponsor events or offer talks, workshops, or classes at yoga studios, health food stores, juice bars, health spas, wellness centres, gyms, and other businesses that align with your therapy practice.
Look for businesses that share your values and already reach your target market. It’s important to continually evaluate the partnership to ensure it remains mutually beneficial.
8. Ask patients for referrals and reviews
Word of mouth is the most reliable way to grow your practice. Asking your regular clients to refer you to their friends and family is a great way to attract new clients. Many practitioners offer incentives whereby patients who refer someone receive a discount on future appointments.
In addition, ask existing clients to review your services on Facebook and Google to build an online presence and pique the interest of prospective clients.
Remember to follow up with patients, respond to your reviews, and thank your clients for supporting your practice. This will increase the likelihood of referrals.
9. Offer online booking and scheduling
Online booking and scheduling systems make it quick and easy for potential clients to make an appointment without having to phone or email you. This is ideal for attracting busy clients as they can make a booking at any time.
Online booking also minimizes the number of calls and emails you receive, saving you time. Plus, automated reminders may reduce the number of no-shows.
There are several online booking platforms that you can integrate into your website using a simple widget – including Acuity Scheduling, Calendly, or SimplyBook.me. You can indicate your availability, prices, and offerings like new patient consultations, follow-up appointments, group sessions, or package deals.
Once you’ve set this up, tell your clients about it via your social media and email list.
10. Offer free initial consultations
Offering a free “discovery” call or appointment helps potential clients learn more about your approach to complementary healing. People are more likely to reach out to you if they don’t have to commit immediately. It also builds trust and helps you make connections with new people.
Final Thoughts
There’s no doubt the right clients will find you if you use a combination of online marketing, social media, professional networking, business collaborations, and word-of-mouth referrals.
A great place to start building a thriving complementary therapy practice is by listing your services on our Treatwiser directory.
Finally, providing excellent professional care and building trust with existing clients is essential to attract new and repeat clients.
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